Recipe of Squash Caviar (Courgette Caviar, Zucchini Caviar), a traditional spread popular in Eastern European cuisine. Made from stewed zucchini (courgettes), carrots, onions, and tomatoes, this dish has a smooth texture and a mildly sweet, savory taste. Often enjoyed as a side dish or a spread on bread, squash caviar is beloved for its rich flavor and simplicity.
Cooking Time:
1 hour
Ingredients:
- 2 lb zucchini (courgettes), peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato purée
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
Recipe:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add grated carrots and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the diced zucchini and continue cooking for about 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
- Pour in the tomato purée, add sugar, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the minced garlic, then blend the mixture with an immersion blender until smooth.
- Continue cooking for another 5 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or chilled as a spread on bread or a side dish.
