What is Zuccata?
Zuccata is a traditional Italian sweet preserve made from candied fruit and nuts. It’s often enjoyed on its own, spread on toast, or used as a filling for cakes and pastries. The combination of fruit and nuts in zuccata creates a delightful texture and a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 kg mixed fruit (such as citrus peel, apricots, and cherries)
- 500g sugar
- 100g almonds
- 100g walnuts
- 1 lemon
- 1 orange
- 1 vanilla bean
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Start by preparing the fruit. Peel the citrus fruits and remove the white pith. Chop the fruits into small pieces and set aside. If you’re using dried apricots or cherries, make sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes to soften.
Step 2: Candying the Fruit
In a large pot, combine the chopped fruit and sugar. Squeeze the juice of the lemon and orange into the pot. Cut the vanilla bean open lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the bean to the pot. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved.
Step 3: Cooking the Zuccata
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the zuccata, uncovered, for about 1-2 hours or until the fruits become translucent and the syrup thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Adding Nuts
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the almonds and walnuts to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate them into the syrup. Continue to simmer until the nuts are slightly softened.
Step 5: Cooling and Storing
Remove the pot from heat and allow the zuccata to cool completely. Once cooled, remove the vanilla bean and transfer the zuccata to sterilized jars. Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place. The zuccata will continue to develop its flavors over time.
Congratulations! You have successfully made homemade zuccata. Now that you know the step-by-step process, feel free to experiment with different fruits and nuts to create your own unique variations. Whether enjoyed as a spread or used in desserts, your homemade zuccata will surely impress family and friends. Happy cooking!