Appetizers
Zaalouk (Smoky Eggplant and Tomato Dip) (كولعز)
Ingredients
- - Eggplant — 500g (1 lb)
- - Tomatoes, chopped — 300g (2 cups)
- - Garlic, minced — 10g (2 cloves)
- - Ground cumin — 5g (1 tsp)
- - Paprika — 3g (1/2 tsp)
- - Olive oil — 45ml (3 tbsp)
- - Fresh coriander, chopped — 10g (2 tbsp)
- - Salt — 5g (1 tsp)
Method
- Char the eggplant directly over a flame or roast at 220°C (425°F) until the skin blisters and the flesh softens, about 20-25 minutes.
- Let cool slightly, then peel and roughly mash the flesh.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan and sauté garlic briefly until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes, cumin, paprika and salt; simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the mashed eggplant and cook together for a further 5-8 minutes, mashing further to the desired texture.
- Stir in fresh coriander and finish with a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Introduction: A smoky, garlicky cooked eggplant and tomato dip, seasoned with cumin and paprika and finished with olive oil.
Cultural Background: Zaalouk is shared across North Africa, with Algeria’s version leaning on smoked or well-charred eggplant and a warm cumin-forward spice profile, served at nearly every shared table.
Tips: Charring the eggplant directly over a flame gives the most authentic smoky flavour. Simmer the mixture uncovered so excess moisture evaporates, concentrating the flavour.
Variations: Add a pinch of chilli flakes for heat. Stir in a spoonful of preserved lemon for extra brightness.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Naturally vegetarian and vegan as written.
Serving Suggestions: Serve warm or at room temperature with fresh bread for scooping.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan, or serve at room temperature.
Nutrition: 130 kcal | Protein 2g | Carbs 12g | Fat 9g
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this without charring the eggplant? A: Yes, roasting whole in the oven works well too, though you’ll lose some of the smoky flavour from direct flame charring. Q: Is zaalouk served hot or cold? A: It’s most commonly served warm or at room temperature, though leftovers are also enjoyable cold.
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