What roasted red pepper and walnut dip originates from Aleppo and is popular in Lebanon? Muhammara is the answer.
Muhammara is a Levantine dip traditionally associated with Aleppo, Syria, and widely served in Lebanon as part of a cold mezze spread. Its core ingredients are roasted red peppers, ground walnuts, breadcrumbs, olive oil, and pomegranate molasses. Garlic, lemon juice, cumin, and Aleppo pepper may also be added.
The result is a thick, savory-sweet spread with a gentle roasted flavor, nutty richness, and tartness from the pomegranate molasses. It is commonly eaten with pita, but can also accompany grilled meats, vegetables, fish, or kebabs. Some regional preparations use sun-dried peppers or include tahini.
Muhammara is often confused with ajvar, romesco, or harissa. Ajvar is a Balkan pepper spread often made with eggplant, romesco is Catalan and typically includes almonds and tomatoes, while harissa is a North African chili paste. The walnuts and pomegranate molasses are especially useful clues for identifying muhammara.