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Zaalouk (Eggplant Appetizer) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 105 reviews

Zaalouk is a traditional Moroccan eggplant appetizer made by simmering eggplant and tomatoes with garlic, herbs, and spices until tender, then mashed into a flavorful dip. This smoky, savory dish is perfect served warm or cold alongside pita bread or other types of flatbread, making it a delightful addition to any meal or mezze spread.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 2 lbs eggplant, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne powder

Others

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2–3 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1/3 cup water

Instructions

  1. Heat the base: In a Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped eggplant, peeled tomatoes, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, smoked paprika, cumin, kosher salt, cayenne powder, and 1/3 cup of water. Stir everything gently to combine all the ingredients well.
  2. Simmer the vegetables: Cover the pot or skillet and cook over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant and tomatoes are fully softened and tender enough to mash easily.
  3. Add lemon juice and reduce liquid: Stir in the lemon juice, then continue cooking uncovered over low heat. Stir frequently, scraping the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking or scorching. Let the mixture reduce until it reaches your desired consistency, thick and spreadable.
  4. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the zaalouk and add more salt if needed. Serve this flavorful eggplant dip warm or cold, accompanied by pita bread or your preferred type of bread.

Notes

  • Note 1: Peeling the eggplant helps reduce bitterness and improves texture in the final dish.
  • Note 2: Peeling the tomatoes ensures a smoother texture in the zaalouk.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to cook the ingredients evenly and reduce risk of burning.
  • You can mash the cooked vegetables slightly to create a chunky dip or leave them more intact depending on your texture preference.
  • Zaalouk is delicious when served as part of a mezze platter or alongside grilled meats and vegetables.

Keywords: Zaalouk, Moroccan eggplant dip, eggplant appetizer, Moroccan appetizer, vegetarian dip, healthy appetizer, mezze, olive oil dip

Find it online: https://heutigemahlzeiten.com/zaalouk-eggplant-appetizer-recipe/