Homemade Serbian Ajvar

Ingredients

• 4 red bell peppers 4 red bell peppers
• 2 eggplants 2 eggplants
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vinegar 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 4 tablespoons olive oil 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 8g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   Place the red bell peppers and eggplants on a baking sheet and roast them in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the skins are charred and the vegetables are tender.
3. 3.
   Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and let them cool slightly. Peel off the charred skins and discard them.
4. 4.
   Cut the roasted peppers and eggplants into smaller pieces and transfer them to a blender or food processor.
5. 5.
   Add minced garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and salt to the blender.
6. 6.
   Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
7. 7.
   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. 8.
   Transfer the ajvar to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Red bell peppers — To easily remove the charred skins, place the roasted peppers in a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let them steam for a few minutes, then the skins will peel off more easily.
• Eggplants — Before roasting, prick the eggplants with a fork to prevent them from bursting in the oven.
• Garlic — For a milder garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves along with the peppers and eggplants.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can grill the red peppers and eggplants instead of roasting them in the oven.
• Adjust the amount of garlic and vinegar according to your personal preference.
• Ajvar tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, so consider making it in advance.
• Serve ajvar as a spread on bread or crackers, as a dip for vegetables, or as a condiment for grilled meats.
• Store ajvar in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving advice

Serve Homemade Ajvar as a side dish or condiment alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a spread on crusty bread. It also pairs well with cheese and can be used as a flavorful topping for sandwiches or wraps.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of Homemade Ajvar, drizzle a little olive oil on top and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil. Serve it in a small bowl or jar to showcase its vibrant red color.