Bean spread

Bean Zacusca - A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars

Bean zacusca is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and nostalgia, that combines unmistakable tastes and simple yet special ingredients. It is a dish that can be enjoyed on toasted bread, alongside fresh cheese, or as a side dish for meats. Whether you prepare it for yourself or to share with loved ones, this zacusca promises to be a guaranteed success.

Basic ingredients:
- 3 kg onions
- 3 kg bell peppers
- 1 kg white beans
- 1 l oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- 750 ml tomato paste (you can use tomato puree or concentrated tomato juice)
- Coarse salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2 bay leaves

Preparing the beans:
Start by soaking the beans in cold water the night before you begin making the zacusca. This step is essential, as soaking the beans will reduce cooking time and help achieve a finer texture in the dish. The next day, drain the beans and boil them in salted water. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, until soft but not falling apart.

Preparing the vegetables:
While the beans are boiling, take care of the other ingredients. Peel and finely chop the onions. In a large pot, add the oil and sauté the onions with a pinch of salt, stirring constantly, until they become translucent and soft. This process will help release the flavors from the onions, giving the zacusca a special taste.

The bell peppers, which are the stars of the recipe, need to be seeded, washed, and chopped. Add the chopped bell peppers to the pot, mixing well to combine with the onions. Continue to sauté the vegetables for another 10-15 minutes, until the bell peppers become slightly soft.

Combining the ingredients:
Once the beans are cooked, add them to the pot along with the onions and bell peppers. Add the ground pepper and bay leaves, then let everything simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. It is important to stir constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

After 30 minutes, add the tomato paste, mixing well. You can adjust the amount of tomato paste according to your preferences; if you want a tangier zacusca, add a little more. Cook the mixture for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Preserving the zacusca:
When the zacusca is ready, add a tablespoon of salicyl (or preserving powder) and mix well until completely dissolved. This will help preserve the zacusca for a longer time. Fill the jars with hot zacusca, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and place them in a dry, warm spot, covered with a towel or blanket, until the next day.

Practical tips:
1. Types of beans: You can experiment with other types of beans, such as red beans or bean mixes, to achieve unique flavors.
2. Bell peppers: Choose meaty bell peppers, as they provide better texture and a more intense flavor. You can also use sweet peppers to vary the recipe.
3. Serving: Bean zacusca is delicious on toasted bread, but also alongside cottage cheese or yogurt. You can add olives for an extra flavor boost.
4. Freezing: If you don't want to preserve it in jars, zacusca can also be frozen. Place it in airtight containers and keep it in the freezer.

Nutritional benefits:
Bean zacusca is rich in protein and fiber due to the beans, while the bell peppers provide vitamins and antioxidants. It is a healthy dish, ideal for a balanced and low-calorie diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can zacusca be made without oil?
Yes, you can reduce or omit the oil, but it is recommended for better texture and to enhance the flavors.
2. How can I adjust the taste if it is too sour?
Add a little sugar to temper the acidity, but do this sparingly so as not to alter the original taste.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can also experiment with carrots or zucchini to enrich the recipe.

Enjoy the flavor and warmth of this bean zacusca, a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also transport you to pleasant memories. Try making it and share it with your loved ones, turning every meal into a celebration of flavors!