Walnuts are a defining ingredient in muhammara, a Levantine pepper-and-nut dip.
Muhammara is traditionally made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, olive oil, and souring ingredients such as pomegranate molasses or lemon juice. Garlic, cumin, and chili may add further flavor. The mixture is blended or pounded into a thick spread.
The dish is particularly associated with Aleppo in Syria, and its name comes from an Arabic root connected with redness. Recipes vary in heat and texture, but walnuts provide the characteristic richness and are not merely a garnish.
Muhammara is often served as a mezze with bread. It is sometimes confused with ajvar, a Balkan roasted-pepper spread, or with red pepper hummus. Those dishes can share ingredients, but classic muhammara is distinguished by its walnut-based formula and frequent use of pomegranate molasses.