Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Walnut Spread with Red Pepper (Biberli Ceviz)


Besides the taste and the simplicity, the versatility of this dish encourages me to make it more often. As it is traditionally served as a spread on flat bread, it can also be served as a spread for sandwiches, wraps and crackers. It is a quick way of getting a healthy, filling and tasty dish. I actually had it with baked flounder and potatoes the next day which turned out really great. Biberli ceviz is made in the city of Antakya, Turkey (the region I am from) very frequently however we did not consume it much in our household. Only recently did I start making it mainly because I was in search of quick, delicious Turkish meals. This one is a keeper!


2 cups shelled walnuts

3 tbsp red pepper paste

1 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp red pepper flakes

1 tsp cumin

2 cloves garlic

3 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp pomegranate molasses

1 slice of wheat bread cut in small pieces (or white bread)

Dash of salt (adjust to your taste)


Place all the ingredients in a food processor and grind until a paste is attained. Serve on top of bread or crackers as an appetizer, side dish, a snack or as a spread for a sandwich.

 

4 comments:

  1. I think this dish, like hummus, is going to reach planetary popularity; it is called muhammara here in Lebanon and made in every deli and kebab joint as a dip or a spread with kebab; however, I too,have used it in many other dishes. Love it and your recipe is the one that is my favorite.

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  2. Thank you. Actually, in the Hatay region where I am from, this dish is also called muhammara (being close to the border of Syria). It's very popular in that area. Glad you liked the recipe. I would like to try other versions. Each time I make it I add something different just to play with it. I will have to check out your version.

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  3. I love it made your way too. I know it as muhammara too and first had it at a Middle Eastern restaurant in Los Angeles. I also had when I visited Antakya and it was delicious.

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  4. Thanks Faye. I am glad you liked it. So you've been to Antakya! There are many versions of it, but I am glad you enjoyed what you ate there.

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