Samfaina

This samfaina is a vibrant dish that combines ripe red tomatoes and caramelized onions, all in a pairing of irresistible flavors with the intense touch of whole garlic cloves.
Ingredients
Measurement units

Ingredients

  • 5–6 ripe red tomatoes
  • 2 onions
  • 2–3 gransgarlic cloves
  • 1 red pepper
  • 1 green pepper
  • 1 courgette
  • 2 aubergines
  • oil
  • 1 culleradasugar
  • 1 culleradetasalt
  • 1 culleradasweet paprika
Nutritional Information

Per 100 g

Calories
32 kcal
Protein
1 g
Fat
0.8 g
Carbohydrates
6.2 g

Calculated from reviewed ingredient weights and pinned USDA FoodData Central records.

Step-by-step Guide

Preparation

  1. Preparation of the vegetables: We wash all the vegetables with cold water to remove any possible residues of dirt or pesticides before we start chopping.
  2. Preparation of the peppers: We remove the seeds from the peppers, cutting them into small, uniform cubes to ensure even cooking and facilitate flavor fusion.
  3. Cutting the zucchini: We cut the zucchini into small cubes (about 1 cm) to ensure quick cooking. This type of cut helps it integrate well with the other vegetables.
  4. Slicing the garlic: Slicing the cloves of garlic helps distribute their flavor better during cooking.
  5. Chop the onions: Chop the onions into medium pieces (about 1 cm) to maintain texture. This also helps prevent them from breaking down during long cooking.
  6. Grate the tomatoes: Grate the tomatoes to achieve a puree-like texture that will facilitate reduction and caramelization during cooking.
  7. Prepare the eggplants: Do not cut the eggplants in the initial preparation to avoid oxidation; we will do it later to keep them firm and fresh.
  8. Heat the oil: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It is important for the oil to be hot before adding the garlic.
  9. Sauté the garlic: Add the sliced garlic and sauté lightly over medium heat (about 2-3 minutes) until golden, being careful not to burn it, as it would turn bitter in flavor.
  10. Stir during cooking: Stir constantly with a wooden spoon to ensure that the vegetables do not stick and cook evenly.
  11. Add the bell peppers: Once the garlic is slightly browned, add the diced bell peppers and let simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender.
  12. Incorporate the onion: Add the chopped onion and let it cook for another 10 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is translucent and tender.
  13. Prepare the eggplants: Cut the eggplants into small cubes (about 1 cm) without removing the skin, as it adds flavor and texture to the dish.
  14. Add eggplants and zucchini: Introduce the eggplants and zucchini into the mixture and let cook for another 10 minutes, stirring to integrate all the ingredients.
  15. Incorporate the tomato and seasonings
Recommendations & Tricks
  • It needs a few hours’ rest; making it the day before is ideal.
  • You can make extra and freeze it.
  • Uses: salt cod, sausages, octopus, fried egg…
Original recipe
View or download the original PDF document.
    Samfaina | The Catalan Table