Bean spread

Bean zacusca – a traditional recipe that brings warmth and flavor to your table! This zacusca is a delicious, hearty dish, perfect for winter when we want to enjoy rich and comforting tastes. I invite you to discover each step of this recipe, which, with a little effort, transforms into a delightful treat!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 jars

Ingredients:
- 500 g beans (preferably white or red, depending on preferences)
- 1 kg onion
- 1 kg carrot
- 1 kg bell peppers
- 500 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 300 ml tomato puree (or tomato paste)
- 2 bay leaves
- salt and pepper, to taste

Preparing the ingredients:
1. Beans: Start by washing the beans and soaking them in cold water for 8-12 hours, preferably overnight. This step not only reduces cooking time but also aids in the digestion of the beans.
2. Vegetables: Peel and wash the onion, carrots, and bell peppers. Chop the onion finely, and cut the carrots and bell peppers into cubes. These vegetables will add extra flavor and sweetness to your zacusca.

Step by step:
1. Boiling the beans: In a large pot, add the soaked beans and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, adding salt and bay leaves. Boil the beans until soft, about 1-1.5 hours. Check occasionally, adding more water if necessary.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the carrots and bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables for about 30-40 minutes, stirring frequently. This process helps develop flavors and achieve a creamy texture.

3. Mashing the beans: When the beans are cooked, drain them and mash them using a blender or a food processor. Add the bean puree to the pot with the sautéed vegetables.

4. Cooking the zacusca: Add the tomato puree and mix well. Let the zacusca simmer on low heat, covered, for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Baking: Transfer the zacusca to the preheated oven at 180°C for 30-40 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and give your dish a special taste.

6. Preserving: When the zacusca is ready, fill the sterilized jars with hot zacusca. Pour a little oil over each jar to create a protective film. Then, place the jars in a large pot of boiling water and boil for 30 minutes to ensure proper preservation.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the beans: You can use white, red, or even a combination of both beans to add a colorful aspect to your dish.
- Vegetables: If you want a spicier zacusca, you can add chopped hot peppers during sautéing.
- Vegan option: This recipe is already vegan, but you can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to change its texture and flavor.
- Jarred zacusca: Make sure the jars are perfectly sterilized to prevent bacteria growth.

Pairing and serving:
Bean zacusca is delicious served on fresh or toasted bread, but it also pairs wonderfully with cottage cheese or as an appetizer alongside olives and pickled vegetables. A bottle of red wine will perfectly complement this rustic meal, turning it into a true celebration of flavors.

Nutritional information:
Bean zacusca is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in saturated fats and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet. One serving (about 100 g) contains:
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, if you're in a hurry, you can use canned beans. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before use, but they will be less flavorful than home-cooked beans.

2. How can I store zacusca for a longer time?
Zacusca stores well in sterilized jars and can be kept in the pantry. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks.

3. Are there oil-free zacusca variants?
You can reduce the amount of oil by adding water or tomato puree instead of oil during cooking, but this may slightly change the taste and texture.

4. How can I enhance the flavor of zacusca?
Adding spices like paprika, thyme, or dill can enhance the flavor of your zacusca. Experiment with these ingredients to find the perfect combination!

Personal note:
This bean zacusca recipe is not just a simple dish, but a memory of childhood when fresh vegetables were gathered in grandma's yard, and the aroma that filled the house was unforgettable. I encourage you to add your personal touch to this recipe, adapt it to your tastes, and create pleasant moments with your loved ones!

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! Enjoy your meal!