Zacusca

To prepare a delicious zacusca, start by roasting the eggplants, bell peppers, and capia peppers. These vegetables need special attention to maintain their flavor and texture. Once roasted, carefully peel them and let them drain in a colander to remove excess water. This step is essential as it helps achieve a denser and tastier zacusca.

Next, clean the onion, wash it well, and slice it thinly. The onion will add a savory taste to the dish, so make sure it's evenly cut. In a large pot, heat the oil. When the oil is hot, add the sliced onion and let it sauté over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it softens evenly, but be careful not to brown it too much, as you don't want a bitter taste.

After the onion has softened, add the chopped capia pepper and diced eggplant. Mix the ingredients well to combine the flavors. Add bay leaves, a little salt, and pepper to taste. These spices will enhance the dish's flavor and make the zacusca particularly tasty. Cover the pot and place it in the oven at a moderate temperature.

It's important to stir the vegetables occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This will allow the vegetables to cook evenly and release their natural juices. After about 30 minutes, when the oil starts to rise to the top, add the tomato juice. This will add a sweet and sour taste and contribute to the vibrant color of the zacusca.

Taste the dish and, if necessary, adjust the salt. Let the zacusca simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, remove the bay leaves and prepare the sterilized jars. Fill each jar with hot zacusca, being careful not to leave air pockets. Cover the jars with lids and place them in a pot for a water bath. Let them boil for 30 minutes, which will ensure proper preservation.

After the time has elapsed, remove the jars from the water bath and cover them with thick towels. This slow cooling method helps create a vacuum in the jars, ensuring better preservation of the zacusca. Leave them like this until the next day, when they will have cooled completely. This zacusca can be served on toasted bread or as a side dish to various meals, offering an intense taste and special flavor. Enjoy this traditional recipe and savor the delicious aroma of roasted vegetables!