Muhamara is a Middle Eastern spread originating form Aleppo, Syria. It has a red bell pepper and walnut base. There are many versions of this dish out there but today I am sharing a recipe that I stumbled on by chance. I was at a friends house and her mom served this amazing Muhamara at dinner. I found it to be so fresh, unlike all the smoked Muhamara recipes that I know. So I asked for the recipe and she was more than happy to share it. Originally the bell peppers for Muhamara are roasted and peeled, but today I will be blending them raw. This is what was so special and gave it a different flavor profile. Also it's easier this way and is ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 large red bell pepper
- 1 red chili (optional)
- 1 cup coarsely ground walnuts
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 - 3/4 cup olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
- 2-3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Pomegranate arils
- Chopped parsley
- Green onions
* Add the coarsely chopped walnuts (coarse so you get to taste them, if they are fine you won't be able to enjoy the crunch)
* Pour on the olive oil, pomegranate molasses and sweet chili sauce, add the cumin, salt, cayenne and mix.
*Now the mixture is watery, gradually add the bread crumbs to absorb all the liquids and thicken the mix.
*Everything is up to taste, you can add more or less according to the flavor you like. This is when you taste and adjust. Once you're happy with the result you plate. Garnish with pomegranate arils, some parsley and chopped green onions, maybe some walnuts too.. and a drizzle of olive oil.
*It is served alongside toasted bread as a dip or you can spread it on a toast, either way it is really really good.