Ajvar – Balkan Pepper Spread Recipe
Ajvar is a traditional Balkan pepper spread that combines the smoky sweetness of roasted red bell peppers with creamy eggplant and a hint of garlic. This versatile spread can be enjoyed as a dip, spread, or side dish, offering a burst of flavor to any meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Condiment
- Method: Roasting, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Balkan, Eastern European
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Ingredients:
- 6 large red bell peppers
- 2 medium eggplants
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Roast vegetables: Roast bell peppers and eggplants on a baking sheet for 30–40 minutes until charred and soft. Peel and discard skins and seeds.
- Prepare mixture: Blend peppers and eggplant in a food processor. Cook garlic in olive oil, then add the pepper-eggplant mixture, vinegar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook: Cook for 20–25 minutes until thickened.
- Serve: Cool before serving.
Notes
- Ajvar is delicious on bread, with grilled meats, or alongside cheese.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
