Zaalouk (Eggplant Salad)

Zaalouk is a delicious, spicy, and healthy Moroccan appetizer. I often serve it as a salad or as a side dish with bread or chips. Methods of cooking the Zaalouk differs from region to region in Morocco. The eggplants (the main ingredient) can be either roasted, boiled, steamed, or sauteed. Most people cook this dish with tomatoes and onions. I personally make my Zaalouk with sauteed eggplants and instead of fresh tomatoes I use tomato paste. Very simple, easy, and delish. I promise!!


What You Need:

1 big eggplant
3 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp lemon juice
Black pepper and salt to taste

What To Do:

1. Half peel the eggplant (Peel off alternate strips of skin down the length of the eggplant) and cut it into cubes.
2. Heat the oil in a heavy bottom skillet, add the eggplant and the garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it begins to color. Add the cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and the tomato paste, stirring for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. When the eggplants are tender, break up the big chunks with a potatoe masher or simply a fork.
4. Cook gently over low heat for 6-10 minutes.
5. Refresh with the lemon juice. Serve warm or cold, with the cilantro scattered over.

Enjoy!

Zaalouk (Eggplant Salad)