Muhammara - Spicy Red Pepper Dip

Name: Muhammara - Spicy Red Pepper Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 3 red bell peppers (large); 1 cup walnuts (toasted); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (fine); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)

35 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

A deliciously spicy and nutty red pepper dip from the Middle East, perfect for pairing with bread or vegetables.

Prep

15 min

Cook

20 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Muhammara is a vibrant and flavorful dip originating from the Middle East. Made with roasted red peppers, walnuts, and a hint of spice, it offers a unique combination of smokiness, nuttiness, and heat. This dip is perfect for serving as an appetizer with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables. Muhammara's rich, complex flavours make it a standout addition to any meal or gathering.

Ingredients

Servings

Main Ingredients

Instructions

Prepare the peppers

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until the skin is blistered and blackened, turning halfway through.

Pro tip: Roasting the peppers enhances their sweetness and smokiness.

Cool and peel the peppers

Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let them cool for 10 minutes. Once cooled, peel off the skins and remove the seeds.

Pro tip: Covering the peppers helps loosen the skins, making them easier to peel.

Toast the walnuts

While the peppers cool, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the walnuts; they should be lightly browned.

Blend the ingredients

In a food processor, combine the roasted peppers, toasted walnuts, breadcrumbs, olive oil, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, cumin, red pepper flakes, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.

Pro tip: Adjust the consistency with additional olive oil or breadcrumbs, if needed.

Adjust seasoning

Taste the muhammara and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice, if necessary.

Pro tip: Balance the flavours to your preference before serving.

Serve and enjoy

Transfer the muhammara to a serving dish and drizzle with a little extra olive oil. Serve chilled with pita bread or vegetables.

Pro tip: Garnish with additional toasted walnuts or parsley for a decorative touch.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Roast red peppers until they blister for maximum flavour.</li><li>Use fresh, high-quality walnuts for a rich taste.</li><li>Adjust the level of spice by varying the amount of chili flakes.</li><li>Serve chilled for the best texture and taste.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve muhammara chilled alongside a platter of fresh vegetables, crusty bread, or grilled meats. Its complex flavours pair well with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Store any leftover muhammara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This dip can also be prepared in advance, allowing the flavours to meld and intensify over time.