- 2 large Eggplant
- 4 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 14.5 oz Can of diced tomatoes (Sub: 2 large tomatoes)
- 6 cloves Garlic, peeled and sliced in half lengthwise
- 2 tbsp Parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp Cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- 2 tsp Ground cumin
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 1 pinch Cayenne powder
- Salt and pepper
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
Roast Eggplant - Preheat broiler. Trim stems and cut eggplants in half lengthways. Insert garlic into slits in eggplants' flesh. Place skin-side up on an aluminum foil lined baking pan. Place eggplants as close to the broiler elements as possible. Roast eggplants until the skins get charred and cracked, about 25- 35 minutes or longer until the flesh becomes very soft. Remove garlic cloves and mash with fork. Transfer to a bowl. Scoop out eggplant flesh and add to the same bowl. Cook Tomatoes - While eggplants are roasting, warm olive oil in a large skillet set over medium heat. Add diced tomatoes with juices, parsley, cilantro, and spices. Cook tomato mixture until the tomatoes break down and a rich tomato sauce forms, about 10- 20 minutes. Stir frequently. Finish Zaalouk - Stir in roasted eggplant and garlic to the tomato mixture. Mash any firm clumps or eggplant with the back of a spoon or fork. Mix in lemon juice and cook for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve warm, cold, at room temperature. If garnishing, sprinkle a little chopped parsley or cilantro on top and maybe a swirl of extra virgin olive oil.
- Zaalouk will keep for several days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw before reheating in a pan. Reduce excess liquid and adjust seasonings.
Calories: 134kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 102mg | Potassium: 485mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 124IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 1mg