Fish spread

Fish Zacusca

If you are looking for a fish zacusca recipe that combines tradition with flavor, you have come to the right place! Growing up in a fishing community on the banks of the Danube, I learned how important this delicacy is in our daily lives. Fish zacusca is not just a delicious dish, but also a memory of summers spent by the water, where friendship and family gathered around a table full of goodies.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- 2 kg mackerel (or other preferred fish, such as carp or trout)
- 1 kg onion (for a sweeter taste, choose white onion)
- 1 kg bell peppers (provides a distinct flavor and vibrant color)
- 2 kg tomatoes (ideally use ripe, seasonal tomatoes)
- 300 ml vinegar (for a more acidic taste, you can experiment with wine vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 hot peppers (optional, for a bit of spice)
- 1 small head of garlic (for extra flavor)
- 2 cups of oil (sunflower oil is ideal)

Practical tips for ingredients:
- Choose fresh fish with white, firm flesh. If possible, catch it yourself for a truly authentic taste.
- The onion can be sautéed longer if you prefer a stronger flavor, but make sure it doesn’t burn.
- Tomatoes can be peeled more easily if you blanch them for a few seconds in boiling water and then transfer them to cold water.

Step by step:
1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning the fish, removing the head and tail. Wash it well under cold running water. Place it in a deep bowl, cover it with water, add 200 ml of vinegar and 2 tablespoons of salt. Let it boil for 30 minutes. Once cooled, carefully debone it, leaving only the tender flesh. Set the fish meat aside on a plate.

2. Preparing the vegetables: In a cauldron, heat the 2 cups of oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until golden. Then, add the cleaned and chopped bell peppers. Continue sautéing for about 15 minutes.

3. Tomatoes: Chop the tomatoes and strain them through a sieve to remove the seeds. Add them to the pot with the onion and peppers. Season with salt, a little thyme, pepper, and bay leaves. Let the mixture simmer over medium heat until it reduces and becomes a thick paste.

4. Combining the ingredients: After the vegetables are well sautéed, add the fish meat. Gently mix so that the fish does not completely break apart. Let the mixture simmer for 30 minutes.

5. Finalizing the zacusca: After 30 minutes, add the remaining vinegar and the 2 tablespoons of sugar. Continue cooking for a few more minutes, tasting and adjusting the seasonings as desired.

6. Preserving: Fill clean jars with hot zacusca, ensuring no air bubbles remain. Secure the lids tightly and sterilize for 30 minutes in boiling water. The next day, remove the jars and let them cool completely.

7. Storing: Once cooled, store the jars in a pantry, in a cool, dark place. Fish zacusca can be enjoyed on toasted bread, alongside a glass of white wine, or as a side dish to a delicious roast.

Nutritional benefits:
Fish zacusca is an excellent source of quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins. The fish, onion, and tomatoes provide an important supply of nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of fish? Of course! Carp or trout are excellent alternatives.
- How can I make the zacusca spicier? Add more hot peppers or even a bit of ground chili.
- How long can it be stored? Fish zacusca can be kept in good condition for up to a year if properly sterilized.

Possible variations:
- Instead of vinegar, you can use lemon juice for a fresher flavor.
- You can add olives or capers for a Mediterranean taste.

This fish zacusca recipe is not just a simple dish, but a tradition that brings joy and culinary reminiscences. Whether you serve it at a family meal or at a party, this dish will delight any gourmet. I invite you to try this recipe and discover the magic of authentic taste!