Muhammara is a hot pepper dip and forms an important part of Levantine and Turkish cuisine. It originated in Aleppo, Syria. It is prepared using fresh or dried peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sometimes, other ingredients like cumin powder, garlic, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses are added to enhance its flavor.
This dip does not only boasts of its taste but also of its health benefits. Its main ingredients- red bell-pepper and walnut are rich in antioxidants. Red bell peppers are also an excellent source of Vitamin C and contain very good quantities of Vitamin A. Walnuts contain a good amount of Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E as well.
Muhammara can be eaten as a dip for finger-foods or as spread for toast/pita bread. It can be consumed immediately or transferred to an airtight container and stored in refrigerator.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 Roasted Red Bell-Pepper (Deseeded and Chopped)
- 6-8 Garlic Cloves (Chopped)
- 1/3 Cup Walnuts ( Dry-Roasted)
- 1 Tsp Roasted Cumin Powder
- 3 Tsp Chilli Flakes
- 4 Tbsp Bread-Crumbs
- 2 Tbsp Pomegranate Juice
- 1 1/2 Tsp Lemon Juice
- Salt
- 1 Tsp Olive Oil
METHOD
- Transfer all ingredients to a mixer jar and blitz the mixture to obtain paste.
- Transfer to a bowl and relish with lavash crackers or toasted pita bread.