Description
A smoky, savory Eastern European spread made from charred eggplants, sweet peppers, and onions simmered in a rich tomato base. Perfect as a vegan appetizer, snack, or condiment, full of deep, hearty flavors.
Ingredients
5½ pounds eggplant, grilled until charred
4½ pounds capia peppers (or red bell peppers), grilled until charred
4½ pounds pimento peppers, grilled until charred
2 pounds onions, chopped
3 cups vegetable oil
6 cups tomato sauce
3 tablespoons salt, or to taste
2 tablespoons ground black pepper
5 bay leaves
Instructions
- Grill eggplants, capia peppers, and pimento peppers until skins are charred. Let cool slightly, then peel skins and remove seeds. Chop flesh finely or pulse in a food processor for a chunky texture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add chopped eggplant and peppers to the pot and stir to combine with onions.
- Pour in tomato sauce, then add salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Stir well.
- Simmer over low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until thickened and flavors meld.
- Remove bay leaves. Let cool slightly before storing in sterilized jars or serving.
- Serve warm or chilled with crusty bread, cheese, or as a side dish.
Notes
Use a food processor for convenience, but avoid over-pureeing to keep a chunky texture.
Substitute all red bell peppers if capia or pimento peppers are unavailable; flavor will be milder.
Add smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicier, smokier version.
Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or dill when serving for a fresh note.
Roast vegetables in the oven if grilling isn’t an option.
Store in sterilized jars refrigerated up to 3 weeks; use canning methods for long-term storage.
Flavor improves if rested overnight before serving.
Reheat gently on stove or serve cold, depending on preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
