Muhammara

Muhammara is a delicious Middle Eastern condiment traditionally made with a base of mildly spicy peppers and walnuts. A nice alternative to hummus, it goes well with pita chips or a platter of crudites or both. I like to make this modified recipe when I entertain {with sweet roasted red peppers and a small amount of crushed red pepper} to satisfy those who cannot tolerate heat.

Muhammara

7-ounce jar roasted red peppers, drained

1/4 c + 1 T bread crumbs

1/3 c walnuts, toasted lightly and chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, or to taste

2 t pomegranate molasses {*}

1 t ground cumin

1/2 t to 1 t dried hot red pepper flakes, to taste

3/4 c olive oil

Place all ingredients in a food processor and process until you have a thick paste.  Slowly drizzle in the oil and process until incorporated.

{Found in Middle Eastern markets, gourmet markets and online}

Source:  Adapted from Epicurious.