Matbucha

Matbucha is a vibrant Moroccan appetizer made from roasted tomatoes and peppers, simmered with spices to create a rich, flavorful dish. It is perfect for dipping, spreading, or serving alongside grilled meats and bread.

Ingredients

• Ripe tomatoes - 400 grams
• Red bell pepper - 1 medium (about 150 grams)
• Garlic - 2 cloves
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Cut the tomatoes in half and remove the seeds. Place them on a baking sheet, cut side up.
3. Cut the red bell pepper in half, remove the seeds, and place it on the baking sheet with the tomatoes.
4. Drizzle the vegetables with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are softened and slightly charred.
5. Once roasted, allow the vegetables to cool slightly, then peel the skin off the bell pepper and chop both the tomatoes and bell pepper into small pieces.
6. In a medium saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Add the chopped tomatoes and bell pepper to the saucepan, along with cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
8. Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
9. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature with pita bread or as a side dish.

Nutrition

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbs: 20 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from tomatoes, which may support heart health.
• High in dietary fiber from vegetables, promoting digestive health.

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