Garlic sauce with tomato paste

Tomato Paste Mujdei – A Delicious and Versatile Sauce

Total Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Tomato paste mujdei is a classic sauce, renowned for its intense aroma and unmistakable taste, often served alongside meat, fish, or vegetable dishes. It is a simple recipe, yet full of flavor, bringing a touch of freshness to any meal. Whether you're preparing for a barbecue with friends or simply want to add a special condiment to your home dinner, this mujdei will surely be the star.

A Bit of History

Mujdei has its origins in the culinary traditions of various cultures, being popular in many countries. This sauce is often associated with rustic cooking, based on simple ingredients found in most kitchens. Garlic, an essential ingredient, is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it not only tasty but also beneficial for health.

Ingredients

- 1 head of garlic (about 10-12 cloves)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or vegetable oil, according to preference)
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste (you can also use fresh or dried tomatoes, depending on taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Sparkling mineral water (about 100 ml, but adjust to preference)

Step by Step to a Perfect Mujdei

1. Preparing the Garlic: Start by peeling the head of garlic. Separate the garlic cloves and rinse them under cold water to remove any impurities. Use a knife to lightly crush them, releasing the intense aromas.

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the crushed garlic cloves, the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add more garlic. Finally, add salt to taste.

3. Adding the Mineral Water: To achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, gradually add the sparkling mineral water. Mix well with a spatula or wooden spoon until you obtain a homogeneous paste. If you want a thinner sauce, you can adjust the amount of water.

4. Tasting and Adjusting: It is important to taste the mujdei and adjust it according to your preferences. You can add more salt or tomato paste to enhance the flavors.

5. Serving: Serve the mujdei immediately, but you can also keep it in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. It is delicious alongside grilled meats, fish, or vegetables, but also as a condiment for salads.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Garlic: Choose garlic cloves that are firm and hard, avoiding those with spots or softness. Fresh garlic has a much more intense flavor and will make your mujdei truly special.
- The Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a distinct note, but you can also opt for more neutral oils, such as sunflower oil, if you do not like the strong taste of olive oil.
- Spicy Variation: If you are a spice lover, you can add a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes to the mujdei for a spicier taste.
- Variations: You can experiment with adding herbs, such as parsley or dill, to give your sauce a fresh note. These variations will add a splash of color and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, you can use roasted garlic, but the taste will be different. Roasted garlic has a sweeter and less intense flavor.

2. Can mujdei be frozen?
I recommend not freezing mujdei, as its texture will change. It is best consumed fresh.

3. What can I do if I don't have sparkling mineral water?
You can use still water, but the effervescence effect will be less pronounced.

Tomato paste mujdei is a versatile sauce that pairs well with a variety of dishes, from grills to salads. Don't hesitate to try it and adapt it to your taste, turning it into a favorite condiment in your kitchen. This sauce is not just a condiment, but a culinary experience that brings a touch of character to your plate. Enjoy it with pleasure!