Zacusca

Eggplant zacusca, a traditional delicacy, is a beloved dish that combines the flavors of roasted vegetables with a touch of oil and spices. This recipe is not just a simple appetizer, but a journey into the world of tastes and culinary memories, bringing family and friends together around the table. Let’s explore together how to prepare this delicious zacusca, step by step, with useful tips and fascinating details.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:
- 5 kg eggplants (you can use more if you want a larger quantity)
- 5 kg bell peppers or red pimentos
- 1.5 kg onions
- 1.5 l tomato puree
- 500 ml oil (plus oil for covering)
- Salt to taste
- Sliced hot pepper, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Bay leaves (optional)
- Mustard seeds (optional)
- Thyme (optional)

Preparation:
1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by roasting the eggplants on a tray over medium heat until their skin turns black and the flesh is soft. The same applies to the bell peppers or pimentos. Roasting the vegetables will give them an intense flavor and irresistible aroma. Let the eggplants and peppers cool, then peel them.

2. Sauté the onions: Peel and slice the onions into thin strips (julienne). In a large pan, add 250 ml of oil and a splash of water. Add the onions to sauté, stirring occasionally, until they become transparent and soft. This step is essential to extract the natural sweetness of the onions, which will enrich the taste of the zacusca.

3. Chop the vegetables: Once the eggplants and peppers have cooled, chop them together with the sautéed onions. Use a meat grinder with small holes to achieve a fine texture. It is important to drain the onions in a colander before chopping, and the drained oil can be saved to be added to the zacusca, contributing to a richer taste.

4. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the eggplants, peppers, chopped onions, tomato puree, and oil. Add salt and hot pepper to taste. If you want to enhance the aroma, you can add bay leaves, mustard seeds, or thyme. Mix all the ingredients well, ensuring they combine evenly.

5. Cook the zacusca: Place the mixture over medium heat, covering with a lid to prevent sticking. Once the zacusca starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about an hour. It is crucial to stir the mixture constantly to avoid sticking to the bottom of the pot. This step will help develop the flavors and ensure a smooth zacusca.

6. Bottling: When the zacusca is ready, transfer it to sterilized jars. In a small pot, heat the remaining 500 ml of oil and pour a tablespoon or two over each jar of zacusca to cover the surface. This will help preserve the preparation and prevent spoilage.

7. Sealing the jars: Close the jars with lids and make sure they are well sealed. Let them cool at room temperature, then store them in the pantry. Zacusca can be kept for several months, providing you with a delicious snack throughout the year.

Useful tips:
- Choose fresh ingredients: The quality of the vegetables directly influences the taste of the zacusca. Choose fresh, seasonal eggplants, peppers, and onions.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adapt the recipe to your taste. Add herbs or spices to personalize the zacusca.
- Serving: Zacusca is excellent served on toasted bread, alongside cheese or as a side dish for meats. You can pair it with a glass of red wine or craft beer for a perfect culinary experience.

Nutritional information (per approximate serving - 100g):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Fats: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Proteins: 2 g
- Fiber: 3 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! You can experiment with other roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or tomatoes.

2. How long can zacusca be stored?
If well preserved, zacusca can be kept in the pantry for up to 1 year.

3. Is zacusca vegetarian?
Yes, zacusca is a vegetarian dish and can be included in vegan diets.

4. How can I make zacusca spicier?
Add more hot pepper or use spicy sauces to intensify the heat.

Eggplant zacusca is not just a recipe, but a story of the season, culture, and moments spent with loved ones. This simple recipe is a true feast of flavors and textures that will bring a special taste to every meal. Don’t forget to enjoy the preparation process and share this delicacy with your loved ones!