Zahluc - Tunisian eggplant salad

Zahluc - Tunisian Eggplant Salad

A culinary journey into the world of Mediterranean flavors!

When you think of eggplants, classic dishes may come to mind, but Zahluc, the Tunisian eggplant salad, is a delight that will enchant your senses and bring a touch of novelty to your table. This recipe is perfect for enjoying with friends and family and promises to be a hit at any party or picnic.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g roasted eggplants (you can use frozen eggplants, although fresh ones have a more intense flavor)
- 1 clove of garlic (or more if you love the taste of garlic)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (olive oil adds a rich flavor)
- juice from a quarter of a lemon (for acidity and freshness)
- 2 tablespoons fresh coriander, finely chopped (you can plant coriander in the summer and freeze it for winter)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (or more to taste; cumin adds a warm note)
- salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the eggplants: If using fresh eggplants, wash them well, then cut them in half and grill or bake them until soft and caramelized, about 30 minutes. If using frozen eggplants, thaw them and let them drain well.

2. Mashing the eggplants: Once the eggplants are roasted and cooled, chop them finely using a food processor or an immersion blender. The texture should be slightly grainy, not completely pureed.

3. Adding the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the mashed eggplants, crushed garlic clove, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients well until evenly combined.

4. Resting the flavors: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a delicious salad.

5. Serving: Zahluc is usually served with fresh bread, toast, or savory crackers. You can use it as a filling for sandwiches or as a side dish for meat. It is a versatile salad that can be adapted to your preferences!

Tips and useful advice:

- If you don’t have fresh coriander on hand, you can use parsley, although the taste will change.
- For a spicy note, add a little finely chopped chili.
- Zahluc can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Nutritional information:

Each serving of Zahluc contains:

- Calories: approximately 150 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 11 g (due to olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 4 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned eggplants?
- It is preferable to use fresh or frozen eggplants, as canned eggplants may have a different texture and a less intense flavor.

2. What other spices can I add?
- Experiment with other spices like sweet paprika or turmeric to add a splash of color and flavor.

3. How can I make the salad creamier?
- Add a tablespoon of tahini or Greek yogurt for a richer, creamier texture.

4. Can I use other types of herbs?
- Of course! Fresh mint or basil can add an interesting note.

A personal note:

This Zahluc recipe was passed down to me by a friend who traveled a lot. I was impressed by how each ingredient contributes to the final taste. Every time I make it, I think of warm summer evenings when we share lovely moments together, enjoying delicious dishes. I recommend serving it alongside a glass of chilled white wine or fresh lemonade to complete the culinary experience.

Enjoy Zahluc and let your imagination run free to experiment with ingredients and flavors!