A Middle Eastern dip made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, garlic, and olive oil. Muhammara has a rich and complex flavor profile, combining the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the nuttiness of walnuts and the subtle tanginess of pomegranate molasses.

Muhammara offers numerous health benefits. Red peppers, a key ingredient, are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, supporting immune health. Walnuts, another main component, provide healthy omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for brain health and cardiovascular well-being. The garlic in muhammara contains allicin, known for potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to immune support. Pomegranate molasses, a flavorful addition, offers antioxidants associated with heart health and anti-inflammatory effects. The dip is a good source of dietary fiber from red peppers and walnuts, promoting digestive health and satiety.

Muhammara includes various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin E, and manganese, important for skin, vision, and bone health. Being versatile, muhammara can be enjoyed in different ways, making it an easy and delicious means to incorporate nutrient-dense ingredients into your diet.

The dip also features heart-healthy olive oil, enhancing its overall nutritional profile.

Here’s how you make it!

INGREDIENTS

3 large red bell peppers

1 cup walnuts, toasted/ pistacio/ pine nuts

3 cloves garlic

1/4 cup breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon tomato paste

Salt, to taste

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

DIRECTIONS

Preheat your oven broiler. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet and broil, turning occasionally until the skin is charred and blistered.

While the peppers are steaming, toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. And I prefer a mixture of pistacio and pinenuts a little bit.

In a food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, toasted walnuts, garlic, breadcrumbs, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, cumin, red pepper flakes, tomato paste and salt.

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the muhammara reaches your desired consistency. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the processor to ensure everything is well mixed.

Taste the muhammara and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, lemon juice, or red pepper flakes according to your preferences.

Transfer the muhammara to a serving dish. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and garnish with additional toasted walnuts or a sprinkle of cumin if desired.

Muhammara can be served with pita bread, crackers, or as a dip alongside vegetables. It also makes a flavorful spread for sandwiches or wraps.