Muhammara

My absolute all-time favorite dip - Muhammara! This vibrant red pepper dip is a staple in

Middle Eastern cuisine, and for good reason. Its sweet, smoky, and spicy flavor profile is

addictively delicious, and its versatility makes it a great addition to any meal. Whether you're

enjoying it as a dip, spread, or condiment, Muhammara is sure to impress.

Originating from Aleppo, Syria, Muhammara has a rich history that dates back centuries.

The name "Muhammara" literally means "reddened" in Arabic, which refers to the dip's

signature red color. This color comes from the roasted red peppers, which are the base of the

dip. The peppers are roasted to perfection, then blended with a variety of ingredients including

walnuts, garlic, and spices. The result is a dip that is both sweet and savory, with a depth of

flavor that is unparalleled.

The walnuts add a rich, nutty flavor, while the garlic provides a pungent kick. The spices,

including cumin and sumac, add a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the peppers

perfectly. Muhammara is a versatile dip that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It's great as a

dip for falafels, pittas, or veggies, and it also makes a delicious spread for sandwiches or

crackers. You can even use it as a condiment to add flavor to your favorite dishes.

In addition to its great flavor, Muhammara is also packed with nutrients. The red peppers are

high in vitamin C and antioxidants, while the walnuts are a good source of healthy fats and

protein. The garlic and spices also have numerous health benefits, making Muhammara a great

choice for those looking for a healthy and delicious dip. With its rich history, vibrant color, and

delicious flavor, Muhammara is a dip that is sure to impress. Whether you're a fan of Middle

Eastern cuisine or just looking for a new dip to try, Muhammara is a great choice.

Muhammara is also surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and a bit of time,

you can create this delicious dip at home. Simply roast the red peppers, blend them with the

remaining ingredients, and serve. It's a great option for a quick and easy snack or appetizer.

Tips and Tricks:

- For a smokier flavor, roast the red peppers over an open flame or on a grill. - Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness and flavor. - Mix in some crumbled feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor. - Use Muhammara as a sauce for grilled meats or vegetables. - Experiment with different spices, such as cayenne pepper or smoked paprika, to add depth and

- heat. - Make Muhammara ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. - Serve Muhammara with pita chips or crudités for a satisfying snack. - Use Muhammara as a dip for fried foods, like falafel or fried pickles. - Add some heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or serrano peppers into the blend. - Make Muhammara with different types of peppers, like Anaheim or Poblano, for varying levels

of sweetness and heat.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 250 Protein: 5g Fat: 15g Saturated Fat: 2g Carbohydrates: 20g Fiber: 5g Sugar: 5g Sodium: 200mg Potassium: 400mg Vitamin A: 20% of the Daily Value (DV) Vitamin C: 100% of the DV Calcium: 10% of the DV Iron: 15% of the DV

Serves: 2-4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 40 minutes 

Ingredients:

- 3 red bell peppers

- 50 grams (1.7 oz) walnuts

- 50 grams (1.7 oz) pomegranate seeds

- 4 tablespoon olive oil 

- 30 grams (1.06 oz) sun dried tomatoes

- 1 teaspoon honey

- 1 teaspoon cumin 

- 1 tablespoon sumac (or lemon zest)

- 1 slice of wholewheat bread

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 spicy chilli pepper

- salt, pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius / 355 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Halve bell peppers and place on a baking tray with a bit of olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until

the skin turns dark brown.

3. Add walnuts to the same baking tray during the last 3-4 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

4. After baking, immerse bell peppers in ice-cold water for 10-15 minutes to ease skin removal.

5. Peel peppers, then blend with all remaining ingredients in a blender. Adjust chilli quantity for

desired spiciness. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Blend until smooth and refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes.

7. Enjoy with warm pitta bread, falafels or anything really, this dip is amazing.