Roasted Pepper Spread

Zacusca with capia is a delicious Romanian specialty that combines the rich flavors of roasted vegetables with a slightly smoky taste, making it perfect to enjoy on a slice of fresh bread. This traditional recipe is ideal for preserving the flavors of summer and bringing them to our table in the cold season. Here’s how you can prepare this savory zacusca, which will surely become a family favorite.

To prepare zacusca with capia, you will need the following ingredients: 4 capia peppers, 2 medium eggplants, 2 large onions, 400 ml tomato puree, 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. The capia pepper, known for its sweet taste and intense aroma, will be the main ingredient. The eggplants will add a creamy texture, while the onion will provide a special flavor.

The first step in preparing the zacusca is roasting the vegetables. The capia peppers need to be roasted or grilled until the skin turns black and can be easily removed. Once they are ready, place them in a bowl covered with plastic wrap to steam, then peel the skin and cut them into strips. The eggplants are also roasted, and after cooling, they are peeled and finely chopped.

In a large pan, heat the oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, then add the eggplants and mix well. Let them sauté together for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add the capia pepper and continue to stir.

Once the vegetables are well combined, pour in the tomato puree, season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the zacusca simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan. The zacusca is ready when it has a slightly thicker consistency and the flavors have intensified.

Once the zacusca is ready, let it cool slightly, then you can put it in sterilized jars. It can be stored in the refrigerator or pantry, where it can be enjoyed throughout the winter. This capia zacusca recipe is not only a delicious dish but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of summer to winter meals. Enjoy it with pleasure!