Nutritional benefits and traditional recipes of zacuscă

Nutritional expert Mihaela Bilic has provided insights into the health benefits of zacuscă, a popular Romanian vegetable spread. While cooking can lead to the loss of vitamin C, Bilic notes that other nutrients, such as lycopene, actually become more bioavailable through heat treatment. The presence of small amounts of fat can further enhance the absorption of carotenoids.

The vegetable base, typically consisting of eggplant, peppers, onions, and tomatoes, provides essential fiber and micronutrients. However, the nutritional value depends on the amount of oil used, as excessive oil can diminish the health benefits.

In addition to the classic eggplant version, traditional recipes include bean-based zacuscă. This variation uses dried beans, roasted peppers, onions, and tomatoes to create a more satiating and protein-rich spread.