Muhammara

Muhammara is a nutritious dip originating from the Syrian city of Aleppo. It is made with a combination of roasted red peppers, olive oil, and ground walnuts. The peppers give the dish a particular sweetness and smoky flavor, while ground walnuts make it texturally exciting. Lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, garlic, and salt are often added to the dish. Traditionally, it was prepared in a mortar, but modern techniques usually mechanically blend the ingredients, so its texture might vary from grainy to smooth. It is usually served individually in small bowls or in larger plates, when it is consumed communally. Freshly baked pita bread is the essential accompaniment to every muhammara dip - typically cut in triangles, pita is used as a utensil to scoop up this delightful spread. Muhammara is often a part of a mezze, served alongside baba ganoush, labneh, or hummus, but it is also often used as a dip for raw vegetables or a sauce accompanying grilled meat and fish dishes.