Ingredients

4 eggplants ( aubergines )
1/2 cup olive oil
3 ripe tomatoes
2 garlic cloves , crushed
2 teaspoons sweet paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
salt & freshly ground black pepper , to taste
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/2 bunch fresh coriander , chopped
1 preserved lemon , sliced
12 green olives
bread , to serve
Moroccan Zulu Zaalook is a popular dish in North Africa and the Middle East. It is made with roasted eggplant, which is then mixed with a spicy tomato sauce and finished with preserved lemon and green olives. The dish is usually served as a cold appetizer or side dish, and is often enjoyed with fresh bread or pita. Many people find the combination of flavors and textures in this dish to be very enjoyable, and it is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Instructions

1.Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2.Slice the eggplants in half lengthways and brush the cut sides with olive oil.
3.Place the eggplants, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4.Roast for 20-30 minutes until they are soft, then remove from the oven and let cool.
5.In a large bowl, combine the crushed garlic, sweet paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and white vinegar.
6.Cut the tomatoes in half and remove the seeds and any tough cores. Dice the flesh and add it to the bowl with the spices.
7.Squeeze the roasted eggplant to remove any excess water and discard the skins.
8.Chop the eggplant pulp into small pieces and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes and spices.
9.Mix everything together well and adjust the seasoning to taste.
10.Finish the dish by adding the chopped coriander, sliced preserved lemon, and green olives.

PROS

Moroccan Zulu Zaalook is a flavorful and colorful dish that is perfect as an appetizer or a side dish.

The eggplant is rich in fiber and antioxidants, while the tomatoes provide vitamin C and potassium.

The dish is also vegan and gluten-free.

CONS

Eggplants may not be to everyone’s taste, and some people may find the texture of this dish too mushy.

The preserved lemon and olives can be quite salty, so be sure to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplants are a great source of dietary fiber, which can help support healthy digestion.
They are also rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against certain diseases.
Tomatoes provide vitamin C, which is important for skin health and immune function, as well as potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure.

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