Zaalouk

Zaalouk is a traditional Moroccan salad dish that features eggplant and tomato as its primary ingredients. Originating from North Africa, this dish is celebrated for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. It is often served as a starter or a side dish, providing a delightful combination of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that embody the essence of Moroccan cuisine.

Ingredients

• Eggplant (2 medium-sized)
• Tomatoes (3 large, ripe)
• Olive oil (1/4 cup)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon)
• Cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Lemon (1, juiced)

Preparation

The preparation begins with roasting the eggplant to give it a smoky flavor, which is a signature characteristic of Zaalouk. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prick the eggplant with a fork to avoid bursting. Place the eggplant on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally until the skin is charred and the inner flesh becomes soft. Once done, let it cool before peeling off the skin and chopping the flesh.

While the eggplant is roasting, prepare the tomatoes by peeling and dicing them. You can optionally blanch them to make peeling easier. Set the chopped tomatoes aside.

Cooking Process

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
2. Add the peeled and chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Cook until they begin to break down into a sauce, about 10 minutes.
3. Once the tomatoes have broken down, add the chopped eggplant to the skillet. Stir to incorporate it into the tomato mixture.
4. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens.
5. Finally, stir in the chopped cilantro and parsley. Add the juice of a lemon and mix well. Let it cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Adjust seasoning if necessary and remove from heat. Allow Zaalouk to cool to room temperature.

How to Enjoy Zaalouk

Zaalouk can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even chilled. It is often served as a dip with bread or as a side salad with grilled meats and fish. In Moroccan homes, it is common to serve it with a variety of other salads and dips as part of a mezze spread. For a traditional experience, serve Zaalouk with freshly baked Moroccan bread such as Khobz or Batbout. You can also enjoy it as a sandwich filler or as a topping for grilled fish or chicken. Set a timer if needed to ensure proper cooking of your main dish that will accompany this flavorful salad.