Muhammara Dip

Have you ever had Muhammara dip (aka red pepper & walnut dip)?
Muhammara dip is a middle-eastern appetizer that is sweet, spicy, and satisfying. You can serve this simplified version at your holiday parties with veggie sticks for a light and healthier option.
Its red color makes it festive – but the taste is what will make it a winner!
Muhammara dip makes a great sauce for veggies and is a delicious sandwich spread. You'll love the flavours of this versatile dip that brings a burst of deliciousness to any occasion.

(makes 8 servings)

• ¾ cup (175 ml) pomegranate juice
• ½ cup (110 g) walnuts
• 3 Tbsp rolled oats OR gluten-free bread crumbs 
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 16 oz (450 g) jar roasted red peppers, drained
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp ground cumin, plus more for garnish
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Sea salt
• Crudites and pita chips for dipping

Place the pomegranate juice in a small saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium and let simmer for about 5 minutes, until it reduces to about 2 Tbsp. Remove from heat and set aside to thicken and cool.

Toast the walnuts in a nonstick skillet for about 2 minutes over medium-high heat. Set aside to cool.

When cool, place the nuts and oats in a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground. Add the pomegranate juice, lemon juice, drained red peppers, cayenne pepper, and cumin, and process until it’s smooth.

Keeping the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil so it emulsifies. Add salt to taste.

Scrape into a serving bowl. Can be served immediately but it’s even better after a few hours when the flavours have had a chance to develop.

Enjoy!