Lutenitza? You are probably wondering how to pronounce it, neither do you know what it is. But every Bulgarian knows…as well as every Balkan recognize the dishe even it has different names in the different regions of the peninsula. Not to mention that there are at least 50 types of luitenitza. One could hardly imagine that something so simple can be so delicious. Delectable, lip-smacking, toothsome, appetising – lyutenitsa is all of that and even more. Lyutenitsa, ljutenica, or lutenica (Bulgarian: лютеница) can be described as a vegetable relish, paste, spread, or chutney. It can be consumed as a snack food or as an appetiser on toast, crisp bread, or crackers. It is also eaten with different kinds of meat, kebapcheta, or meatballs. The ingredients of lyutenitsa may vary by region but generally, it is composed of (bell) peppers, tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable oil, and condiments such as sugar, salt, and black pepper.
When all the vegetables in the garden are well-ripened by the end of August and beginning of September, it is time to prepare the winter supplies. One of the most important home-made products in Bulgaria is lyutenitsa. The tradition of its making can be traced back to the last century. Lyutenitsa, which is prepared only with natural products, is not only delicious but also carries with it the nostalgia attributed to the end of the summer. It reminds of a rural fireplace and the comfort of a home. There is nothing compared to spreading freshly made lyutenitsa on a warm slice of bread. Home-made lyutenitsa is a unique Bulgarian product and is considered one of the country’s national symbols, at least in the culinary sphere. Gastronomic peculiarities in different cuisines almost always reveal contrasts in the mentality of individual nations. Lyutenitsa is not only an appetiser or a side dish. It is an essential part of the Bulgarian mentality – coarse homemade lyutenitsa is something sustainable, primordial. In times of crisis, there is nothing more uplifting than opening a jar of home-made lyutenitsa.
The word lyutenitsa calls in many people’s minds the images of plump housewives who, in late September, wander around smouldering fires and frequently stir the red mixture with wooden spoons, while discussing the new TV shows.
There is a general belief among Bulgarians that lyutenitsa, in its classic unadulterated form, has a very high health index with nutritional and dietary properties. Many of the elements therein are essential for the proper development, maintenance and restoration of the human body. The fruit sugars, acids, vitamins, mineral salts, trace elements, and other substances, found in the relish, are easily digested and are a great source of energy. It is also believed to help metabolism and to lead harmful substances out of the body. Lyutenitsa’s main health benefits can be found in the tomato lycopene, which increases its amount when tomatoes are processed – that is how the relish is made. Lycopene is a non-provitamin A carotenoid that can be blamed for the red/pink colours of tomatoes, pink grapefruit, and other foods. Studies suggest that the consumption of foods, containing lycopene, may be beneficial for the treatment of cancer or cardiovascular disease.
We, at MyBalkans, don’t miss a day without luitenitza, as we are also proud Bulgarians!
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