Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Ajvar (Roasted Red Pepper Spread) Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 87 reviews

Ajvar is a delicious and versatile roasted red pepper spread made from sweet red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. This flavorful condiment is perfect served as a dip, a side, or a spread for bread, offering a smoky, mildly tangy taste. Traditionally prepared by roasting peppers until charred, then blending and simmering to achieve a smooth, thick texture. It can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 2 cups

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 5-6 sweet red peppers (or red bell peppers as substitute)
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • Optional: Eggplant or chilies

Instructions

  1. Preheat and roast peppers: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218ºC). Place the sweet red peppers on a baking sheet and roast on the top oven rack for 20 minutes. Using tongs, rotate the peppers and continue roasting for an additional 20 minutes until the peppers are softened and charred.
  2. Steam and cool the peppers: Transfer the roasted peppers to a bowl and cover with a tight-fitting lid or plastic wrap to let them steam and cool until they are easy to handle. This softens the skin for easier removal.
  3. Remove skins, stems, and seeds: Once cooled, peel off the skin from the peppers, and remove the stems and seeds carefully to prepare them for blending.
  4. Pulse peppers and garlic: Place the peeled peppers and garlic cloves into a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is roughly chopped but still has texture.
  5. Add oil, vinegar, and salt: Add olive oil, white vinegar, and kosher salt to the food processor. Process again until you achieve your desired texture, whether chunky or smooth.
  6. Simmer to thicken: Pour the red pepper mixture into a saucepan and simmer over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and cook until a thick puree forms, approximately 30 minutes.

Notes

  • Ajvar is traditionally made using long, sweet red peppers. If unavailable, red bell peppers make a fine substitute.
  • This spread can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled depending on your preference.
  • Store fresh ajvar in the refrigerator and consume within 1 week for optimal freshness and flavor.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Spread
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Balkan

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/ajvar-roasted-red-pepper-spread-recipe/