Why Muhammara?

With summer officially here, it’s the perfect time for outdoor grill sessions, picnics, and celebrations under the sun. I mean, who wouldn’t want to throw a party during this vibrant season? And speaking of parties, the Muhammara dip is an enticing option that will surely impress your guests. It’s easy to prepare—in fact, you can have this scrumptious dip ready in less than five minutes!

No more scrambling down the supermarket aisles for pre-packaged dips; with Muhammara, you can create a fresh and delightful appetizer from the comfort of your own kitchen. While hummus is undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser, having a unique offering like Muhammara will rejuvenate your menu and keep your guests excited!

What’s more, this dip hails from Aleppo, Syria, making it a fascinating addition to any appetizer table. And if you thought making it was complicated, think again; just toss all the ingredients into a food processor and you’re done!

Ingredients

• 1 cup roasted red peppers
• 1 cup walnuts, lightly toasted
• 1/2 cup chopped scallions
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (preferably Aleppo), or to taste
• 2 teaspoons pomegranate molasses
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• Salt, to taste
• Pita bread, for serving

Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Start by combining the roasted red peppers, walnuts, scallions, lemon juice, ground cumin, red pepper flakes, pomegranate molasses, olive oil, and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Blend these ingredients until you achieve a smooth consistency.
2. Next, add the breadcrumbs as you pulse the mixture. This allows you to control the thickness of your dip—feel free to adjust by adding more breadcrumbs for a thicker dip or a splash more olive oil for a creamier finish.
3. Once you’ve reached your desired texture, taste the dip and season with additional salt or red pepper flakes as needed.
4. Transfer the Muhammara to a serving bowl, and for that extra touch, drizzle some olive oil on top and sprinkle some crushed walnuts if you desire.
5. Serve this delightful dip with fresh pita bread or crispy pita chips for dipping.

And just like that, you have a stunning dish that will make your gatherings even more special!

Why You’ll Love It

This Muhammara dip is not just a pretty face; it’s incredibly versatile, too. Whether you use it as a dip, spread it on sandwiches, or even drizzle it over grilled meats, the possibilities are endless!

The fusion of roasted red peppers and toasted walnuts gives this dip its signature flavor. It’s a wonderful blend of sweet and spicy, with the pomegranate molasses adding a touch of tang that is simply irresistible.

Shopping Tips

If you’re worried about the heat of the oven, don’t fret! This recipe utilizes jarred roasted bell peppers, which can save you both time and effort. Mezzetta offers a fantastic line of roasted red peppers, making preparation a cinch. Plus, using quality ingredients will enhance the flavor of your Muhammara tremendously.

Oh, and don’t skip the pomegranate molasses. If you can’t find it in stores, it’s easy to make at home!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Muhammara?

Muhammara is a Middle Eastern dip made primarily from roasted red peppers, walnuts, and spices. It’s known for its bright flavor and smooth texture, making it a delicious alternative to hummus.

2. How do I store leftover Muhammara?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about five days. Just give it a good stir before serving again!

3. Can I make Muhammara in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Muhammara a day ahead of time, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

4. Is there a substitute for pomegranate molasses?

If you can’t find pomegranate molasses, you can use balsamic vinegar or a mix of honey and lemon juice as a substitute, although the flavor will differ slightly.

5. What can I serve with Muhammara?

Besides pita bread or pita chips, Muhammara pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables, grissini, or as a spread on sandwiches. It can even be used as a sauce for grilled meats or fish!