Description
Moroccan Zaalouk is a flavorful and smoky eggplant and tomato salad that is a staple in Moroccan cuisine. This vegan and gluten-free dish features roasted eggplants combined with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and a blend of spices, then simmered to a chunky purée. It makes a delicious appetizer, side dish, or a spread served with crusty bread or pita.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium eggplants (peeled and diced)
- 2 medium tomatoes (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
Spices & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prep the Eggplant: Place the diced eggplant in a colander, sprinkle with a little salt, and let it sit for 20–30 minutes to draw out bitterness. Rinse and pat dry thoroughly.
- Cook the Eggplant: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and browns slightly.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Combine well.
- Simmer the Mixture: Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are very soft and the mixture thickens.
- Mash the Mixture: Use a wooden spoon or potato masher to roughly mash the cooked vegetables into a chunky purée.
- Finish with Herbs and Lemon: Stir in chopped cilantro, parsley, and lemon juice. Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes to blend flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve: Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled as a salad, side dish, or spread with crusty bread or pita.
Notes
- Zaalouk is traditionally served as a salad or side dish but also makes a great spread or dip.
- For a smoky twist, grill the eggplant before adding it to the pan.
