Embark on a culinary adventure with Zaalouk, a traditional Moroccan dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of North African cuisine. This eggplant and tomato-based delight offers a medley of spices, creating a symphony for your taste buds.
Ingredients:
2 lb Eggplant (0.9 kg), peeled and diced
1 lb Tomatoes (0.45 kg), finely chopped
4 cloves Garlic, minced
1/4 cup Olive Oil
1 tsp Ground Cumin
1 tsp Paprika
1/2 tsp Ground Coriander
1/2 tsp Chili Powder (optional)
Salt and Pepper to taste
Fresh Parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Eggplant:
Sprinkle salt over diced eggplant and let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Sauté Garlic and Spices:
In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add cumin, paprika, coriander, and chili powder, if using. Stir well.
Add Eggplant:
Incorporate the diced eggplant into the pan, coating it with the aromatic garlic and spices.
Simmer with Tomatoes:
Add finely chopped tomatoes to the mixture. Allow the ingredients to simmer until the eggplant is tender and the tomatoes form a rich sauce.
Mash and Season:
Use a fork to mash the eggplant and tomatoes together. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish Zaalouk with fresh parsley before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Serving:
Zaalouk is a versatile dish that can be served as a flavorful side, a dip with crusty bread, or a topping for couscous. Embrace the Moroccan dining experience by sharing this dish with family and friends.
Zaalouk embodies the spirit of Moroccan hospitality, inviting you to savor the exquisite combination of eggplant, tomatoes, and aromatic spices.