BALKAN EGGPLANT AND CHILE PURéE
This is an eggplant-centric version of ajvar (pronounced "eye-var), the Balkan red pepper and eggplant relish. Serve it with toasted pita triangles or warm pita bread. It differs from other eggplant purées because once the eggplant is cooked and puréed with the other ingredients, the purée itself is simmered until thick.
Provided by Martha Rose Shulman
Categories dips and spreads, appetizer
Time 1h30m
Yield Makes about 1 1/2 cups
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment and oil lightly with olive oil. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise, then with the point of a knife score them down to the skin, but not through it. Place cut side down on the oiled baking sheet, and bake for 30 minutes, until thoroughly softened and beginning to collapse. Remove from the oven and place, cut side down, in a colander in the sink. Leave to drain and cool for 30 minutes.
- Roast the chiles over a burner flame, or under the broiler, until charred. Transfer to a bowl, cover tightly and allow to cool. Put on plastic gloves and peel and seed the chiles.
- Peel the eggplant and purée in a food processor fitted with the steel blade. Add the chiles to the food processor, along with the tomato paste and salt to taste. Process until everything is blended together.
- Place the garlic and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a mortar and pestle and mash until you have a smooth purée.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a medium-size nonstick skillet and add the garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, then stir in the paprika. Cook, stirring, for about 30 seconds, then stir in the eggplant purée. Bring to a simmer and cook stirring, until the purée is quite thick. Stir in the remaining olive oil, taste and adjust salt.
- Remove from the heat, cool and transfer to a jar. Place a thin film of olive oil over the top if storing.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 209, UnsaturatedFat 14 grams, Carbohydrate 15 grams, Fat 17 grams, Fiber 6 grams, Protein 3 grams, SaturatedFat 2 grams, Sodium 508 milligrams, Sugar 8 grams
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love
Mr battery
[email protected]I'm always looking for new and exciting recipes to try and this Balkan Eggplant and Chile Puree is definitely a keeper. It's smoky, flavorful, and has just the right amount of heat.
Mani F
[email protected]This puree is so easy to make, it's perfect for a weeknight meal. I love that I can have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in no time.
Kasie Newsam
[email protected]I'm not usually a fan of eggplant, but this puree is a game-changer. It's so flavorful and delicious, I can't get enough of it.
khanyisile mkhize
[email protected]This puree is the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy. I love the way the flavors all come together to create a truly unique dish.
mr rajpoot
[email protected]I love the vibrant color of this puree. It's so inviting and makes me want to eat it right away.
MD NAJMUL HOQUE
[email protected]This puree is a great way to add some smoky flavor to your dishes. I've used it in soups, stews, and even as a marinade for grilled meats. It always adds a delicious depth of flavor.
Andrew Rivas
[email protected]I'm always looking for new and exciting ways to cook eggplant and this puree is definitely a winner. It's so flavorful and versatile. I can't wait to try it in different dishes.
Mackenna Ramsey
[email protected]I made this puree for a potluck and it was a huge success. Everyone loved the smoky flavor and the subtle heat of the chiles. I'll definitely be making it again for my next party.
Saqib Bilal
[email protected]This puree is a great way to use up leftover eggplant. I always have a few extra eggplants lying around and this is a delicious way to use them up.
Shohidul Islam Ripon Chowdhury
[email protected]I was looking for a new dip to serve at my next party and this Balkan Eggplant and Chile Puree fit the bill perfectly. It was a huge hit with my guests and I'll definitely be making it again.
furqaan logistics
[email protected]This puree is so addictive! The combination of eggplant, chiles, and spices is irresistible. I find myself snacking on it straight from the fridge.
Lawrence Simmons
[email protected]I love the smoky flavor of the roasted eggplant in this puree. It's the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy. I can't get enough of it!
Sayd zada Naeem ul haq shah
[email protected]This Balkan Eggplant and Chile Puree is a delicious and versatile dish. I've used it as a dip, a spread, and even as a pasta sauce. It's always a hit with my family and friends.
GH Positive
[email protected]I was pleasantly surprised by how easy this recipe was to make. I'm not a very experienced cook, but I was able to follow the instructions easily and the puree turned out great. It was a big hit with my family.
HAfeez Swati
[email protected]This puree is amazing! It's so smoky and flavorful, and the chiles give it a nice kick. I love it as a dip with pita bread, or as a spread on sandwiches.
Md Sawal
[email protected]I'm a huge fan of eggplant, and this puree is one of my favorite ways to enjoy it. It's smoky, flavorful, and has just the right amount of heat. I love serving it with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Sabbir bahi
[email protected]This Balkan Eggplant and Chile Puree is a keeper! It's smoky, spicy, and oh-so-delicious. I made it for a party last weekend and everyone raved about it. Will definitely be making it again soon.
Md. Rihan Islam
[email protected]I love this recipe! The eggplant and chile puree is so flavorful and versatile. I've used it as a dip, a spread, and even a sauce for grilled chicken. It's always a hit.
Ahad Jamal
[email protected]The Balkan Eggplant and Chile Puree turned out amazing! I followed the recipe exactly and it was so easy to make. The roasted eggplant gave it a lovely smoky flavor and the chiles added just the right amount of heat. I will definitely be making this
Its_me_you_love_me Love
[email protected]This Balkan Eggplant and Chile Puree was a delightful culinary journey! The smoky flavors of the roasted eggplant and the subtle heat from the chiles blended perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying dish. I served it as a dip with pita bread and fre