Simply Wanderfull
Zaalouk, is a cherished Moroccan dish, that is made by roasting eggplant and then blending together sauteed roma tomatoes, onions and spices. This delightful spread is basically a baba ganoush with a tomato base.
Traditionally served as a side dish or appetizer, Zaalouk offers a harmonious balance of smoky, tangy, and earthy notes that are sure to awaken the senses.
Healthy Benefits to Eating Zaalouk:
Zaalouk offers several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients and cooking methods:
High in Fiber: Zaalouk is made primarily from eggplant and tomatoes, both of which are rich in fiber. Fiber supports digestive health, helps maintain regular bowel movements, and can aid in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness.
Antioxidant-Rich: Tomatoes and eggplants are loaded with antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and various phytonutrients like flavonoids and carotenoids. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and may lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain cancers.
Low in Calories: Zaalouk is relatively low in calories, especially when compared to other dips or spreads. It can be a satisfying addition to a meal without significantly increasing calorie intake, making it suitable for those watching their weight.
Heart-Healthy: The ingredients in Zaalouk, particularly tomatoes and olive oil, are known for their heart-healthy properties. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health, while olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats that can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Nutrient-Dense: Zaalouk provides essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, vitamin K, and folate. These nutrients support various bodily functions such as bone health, nerve function, and blood pressure regulation.
Promotes Hydration: Eggplants, one of the main ingredients in Zaalouk, have a high water content, which can contribute to overall hydration levels in the body. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy levels, supporting metabolism, and promoting healthy skin.
Overall, incorporating Zaalouk into your diet can be a delicious way to boost your intake of nutritious vegetables and enjoy their associated health benefits. However, it’s essential to consider portion sizes and other components of your meal to ensure a balanced diet.
How to Serve Zaalouk:
Zaalouk is a great dip to serve as an appetizer. It tastes great next to a Tzatziki dip and possibly a Hummus. I like to grill up some greek style pita bread to accompany the dip.
As seen in the picture below, I loved adding the Zaalouk dip as a side to a mediterranean salad with grilled halloumi on top. The salad was delicious and full of different flavours. Check out my recipe for a Simply Fresh Mediterranean Salad here.
Zaalouk also tastes great with a Grilled Tandoori Chicken.
The inspiration for this dish comes for a mediterranean restaurant located in Fort Myers, Florida called De Adriatico Mediterranean Restaurant. On their appetizer menu they serve a Mediterranean trio dip appetizer that comes with a Zaalouk dip, tzatziki dip and a hummus. They serve it with warm pita bread. It is wonderful! If you are visiting Southwest Florida anytime you may want to read my article on the 30 Best Restaurants: Ft.Myers, Bonita and Naples Florida.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized eggplants
- 4-5 Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced or 2 tbsp. garlic puree
- 1 tbsp. ginger puree
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds or 1-2 tsp. cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 tsp. red chili powder
- 1 tsp. curry powder
- 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tbsp. tomato paste
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Grill Instructions:
- Preheat your BBQ on Medium-High.
- Place your eggplants on the BBQ.
- Grill your eggplant for a total of 25 minutes and turn every 5 minutes. I like to set my timer for the 5 minute intervals to make sure I don’t forget to turn them.
- Take them off the grill and let cool.
- Peel the skins off and take a good part of the seeds out using your knife.
- Add the eggplant to a food processor and blend.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add in the puree garlic, ginger and spices including the salt & pepper.
- Add the tomato paste and cook out the bitterness for approximatley 1-2 minutes.
- Add water and simmer for approximately 5 minutes.
- Now add the tomato sauce and fresh lemon juice to the food processor with the eggplant. Blend together until smooth.
- Add the Zaalouk to a serving bowl, add some fresh cilantro and serve with pita chips.
Make The Zaalouk Dip With Me!
Moroccan Zaalouk: Tomato Based Baba Ganoush Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized eggplants
- 4-5 Roma tomatoes seeded and diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced or 2 tbsp. garlic puree
- 1 tbsp. ginger puree
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds or 1-2 tsp. cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 tsp. red chili powder
- 1 tsp. curry powder
- 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tbsp. tomato paste
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro optional, for garnish
Instructions
Grilling Instructions:
- Preheat your BBQ on Medium-High.
- Place your eggplants on the BBQ.
- Grill your eggplant for a total of 25 minutes and turn every 5 minutes. I like to set my timer for the 5 minute intervals to make sure I don't forget to turn them.
- Take them off the grill and let cool.
- Peel the skins off and take a good part of the seeds out using your knife.
- Add the eggplant to a food processor and blend.
Tomato & Onion Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add in the puree garlic, ginger and spices including the salt & pepper.
- Add the tomato paste and cook out the bitterness for approximatley 1-2 minutes.
- Add water and simmer for approximately 5 minutes.
- Now add the tomato sauce and fresh lemon juice to the food processor together with the eggplant. Blend together until smooth.
- Add the Zaalouk to a serving bowl, add some fresh cilantro and serve with pita chips or add as a side to grilled meats.
Let's Eat!
Transport your taste buds to Morocco with this homemade Zaalouk dip recipe. With its simple ingredients and bold flavours, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re dipping, spreading, or snacking, this dip adds a touch of North African flair to your table. Enjoy the taste of Morocco right in your own home! I hope you enjoy this recipe. I would love to hear from you.
Drop me a comment or ask me a question! I really appreciate you taking the time to read my article for this Zaalouk recipe.
Happy Cooking!
