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Ajvar (Roasted Red Pepper Dip) Recipe

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4 from 83 reviews

Ajvar is a vibrant, smoky roasted red pepper dip originating from the Balkans, perfect as a flavorful spread or condiment. Made by roasting sweet red peppers and blending them with garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and salt, this dip features a silky texture and smoky undertones. Slow simmering the mixture develops its rich flavor and thickens the puree, making it versatile for serving with bread, grilled meats, or vegetables.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 small jar (approximately 1 cup)

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 5-6 sweet red peppers
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • Optional: Eggplant or chilies (amount to preference)

Other Ingredients

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat and roast peppers: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218ºC). Place the sweet red peppers on a baking sheet on the top oven rack and roast them for 20 minutes. Use tongs to rotate the peppers and continue roasting for an additional 20 minutes until the peppers are softened and nicely charred on all sides.
  2. Steam and cool peppers: Transfer the roasted peppers to a bowl with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam. Let them cool until they are easy to handle. This steaming step will help loosen the skins for easier peeling.
  3. Peel and prepare peppers: Once cooled, peel off the charred skins, and remove the stems and seeds from the peppers. Discard the skins, seeds, and stems.
  4. Pulse peppers and garlic: Place the peeled peppers and garlic cloves into a food processor and pulse a few times until the mixture is roughly chopped but not completely smooth.
  5. Add seasonings and blend: Add the olive oil, white vinegar, and kosher salt to the food processor. Process the ingredients until you reach your preferred texture, whether slightly chunky or smooth.
  6. Simmer to thicken: Transfer the red pepper mixture to a saucepan and place it over medium-low heat. Simmer gently, stirring frequently, for about 30 minutes until the puree thickens and the flavors meld together beautifully. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.

Notes

  • You can add roasted eggplant or a small amount of chilies to the peppers before blending for added depth and spice.
  • Adjust salt to taste towards the end of cooking if needed.
  • Store Ajvar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature as a dip, spread on bread, or alongside grilled meats and vegetables.
  • For a smoother texture, blend longer in the food processor or use an immersion blender after simmering.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Balkan
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/ajvar-roasted-red-pepper-dip-recipe/