Macedonian Ajvar

[lomiloml]

I recently made Macedonian Ajvar, and it was an absolute delight! This roasted red pepper and eggplant spread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a dip, a sandwich spread, or even a side dish. The smoky flavor from the roasted vegetables combined with garlic and olive oil creates a rich and vibrant taste that’s hard to resist. Here’s how you can prepare your own Ajvar at home:

Ingredients:​

• For the Ajvar:
  • 4-5 large red bell peppers
  • 1 medium eggplant
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)

Instructions:​

1. Roast the Vegetables:​

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the whole red peppers and eggplant on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the peppers are blistered and charred, and the eggplant is soft.

2. Steam and Peel:​

• Once roasted, remove the vegetables from the oven and place them in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel to steam for about 15 minutes. This will make it easier to peel off the skins. After steaming, peel the skins off the peppers and eggplant, and discard the seeds from the peppers.

3. Blend the Ingredients:​

• In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted peppers, eggplant, minced garlic, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until you achieve a smooth or slightly chunky consistency, depending on your preference.

4. Taste and Adjust:​

• Taste your Ajvar and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance out the acidity.

5. Serve:​

• Transfer the Ajvar to a serving bowl. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for added richness. You can serve it warm or at room temperature with bread, crackers, or as a condiment alongside grilled meats and vegetables.

Conclusion​

Macedonian Ajvar is a delightful addition to any meal and a great way to enjoy the flavors of roasted vegetables. Its smoky and savory profile makes it perfect for dipping, spreading, or enhancing a variety of dishes. Enjoy this vibrant spread with friends and family, and let the flavors of Macedonia brighten up your table!