Pumpkin Eggplant Spread for Winter

This pumpkin and eggplant spread is a delightful blend of seasonal vegetables that's perfect for the colder months. It's made with fresh pumpkins, eggplants, and tomatoes, all simmered together to create a hearty and flavorful dish. Garlic, salt, and pepper add just the right amount of seasoning, while a touch of oil enhances the texture. This recipe provides a great way to preserve the bounty of your garden and enjoy it throughout the winter. With its vibrant taste and smooth consistency, it can be used as a spread on bread, a side dish, or even mixed into pasta. It's a versatile addition to any meal, bringing warmth and comfort. Whether you're preparing it for family dinners or as a gift to friends, this spread is sure to impress. Let's dive into how to make it!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 kg Pumpkin
• 3 kg Eggplant
• 3 kg Tomatoes
• 70 g Garlic
• 250 g Vegetable Oil

Spices

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Time

60 min total time, including preparation and cooking.

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by peeling the eggplants. Once peeled, cut them into smaller pieces.
2. Saltwater Bath: Boil the eggplants in salted water. This not only cooks them but also enhances their flavor. Let them simmer until they are tender.
3. Cooling and Chopping: Drain the eggplants thoroughly and then chop them into finer pieces.
4. Pumpkin and Tomatoes: Peel the pumpkins and tomatoes. Dice them into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chopped eggplants, pumpkins, and tomatoes. Add the vegetable oil for a silky texture.
6. Add Garlic and Seasoning: Crush the garlic and add it to the mixture along with salt and pepper. Remember that the cooked spread should taste slightly stronger as chilling will mellow the flavors.
7. Heat and Simmer: Place the pot on medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
8. Regular Stirring: Stir the mixture frequently to prevent it from sticking to the pot and to help it cook evenly.
9. Achieve Uniform Consistency: Continue to simmer until the mixture reduces and achieves a uniform, spreadable consistency. If necessary, add a bit of water to achieve desired smoothness.
10. Sterilize Jars: While the mixture is cooking, prepare your jars by sterilizing them in boiling water.
11. Fill Jars: Once the vegetable mixture is ready, carefully fill the sterilized jars with the hot spread.
12. Seal the Jars: Securely close the jars with their respective lids promptly to ensure proper sealing.
13. Cool Jars: Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. As they cool, the seals will tighten, preserving the contents.
14. Storage: Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cellar.
15. Relax and Enjoy: Once everything is cleaned up, take a moment to savor your handiwork.
16. Serving Ideas: Serve the spread chilled or at room temperature for best flavor. Pair it with fresh crusty bread or as a complement to meats.
17. Gift Giving: Consider decorating the jars for gifting during the holiday season.
18. Safety Check: Before consuming, check the seal of each jar by pressing the center of the lid. If it does not pop back, the jar has maintained its vacuum seal.
19. Refrigerate after Opening: Once opened, keep jars refrigerated and consume within a week for best quality.
20. Enjoy Your Creation: Take pride in having created a delicious, homemade winter treat to enjoy or share with others.

Tips

• Substitutions: You can substitute zucchinis for eggplants if desired.
• Oil Options: Olive oil can be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Texture Control: Mix in a blender for smoother consistency if preferred.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 45 kcal per serving
• Protein: 1.2 g
• Fats: 2.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 6.3 g

Variations

• For a spicy twist, add crushed red pepper flakes.
• To accommodate dietary preferences, use gluten-free vegetable broth instead of water.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a charcuterie board with cheeses and meats.
• Use as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
• Enjoy with warm, crispy baguette slices.

Best Places

• Pumpkin Café - Known for its seasonal vegetable dishes. Location: 38 Pumpkin St, Melbourne, Australia.
• Eggplant Bistro - Offers a unique twist on traditional Mediterranean fare. Location: 15 Culinary Ave, Rome, Italy.
• Gourmet Spread - Specializes in savory spreads from around the world. Location: 52 Cookery Lane, New York, USA.
• Tomato Treats - Cozy spot renowned for tomato-based foods. Location: 11 Saucy Rd, Naples, Italy.
• Garlic Garden - Famous for using high-quality garlic in all their meals. Location: 25 Garlic Way, Gilroy, USA.
• Rustic Bites - Features rustic meals with a farm-to-table approach. Location: 9 Farmhouse Blvd, Vancouver, Canada.
• Seasonal Delights - Focuses on dishes made with fresh, seasonal produce. Location: 6 Harvest St, London, UK.
• Eco Eatery - Dedicated to environmentally-friendly sources and recipes. Location: 14 Green Path, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Flavors of Home - Offers comforting meals reminiscent of home-cooked fare. Location: 4 Comfort Lane, Paris, France.
• Chef's Corner - Creative culinary experiences with a touch of flair. Location: 39 Cuisine Rd, Tokyo, Japan.

Prepare this vibrant spread and relish the flavors of autumn any time of the year!