A Taste Of Morocco - An Authentic Zaalouk Recipe

Welcome to the flavorful world of Moroccan cuisine. For our inaugural blog and recipe post, we're introducing you to a beloved dish that encapsulates the essence of Moroccan cooking, Zaalouk.  Bursting with depth of flavor, Zaalouk is a traditional eggplant dish that will transport your taste buds to Morocco.

 Understanding Zaalouk:  What Is It!?

Zaalouk, pronounced "zah-loo-k," is a classic Moroccan side dish or appetizer that is made from humble ingredients like eggplant, tomato, garlic, cumin and paprika.  The ingredients are cooked together until reaching absolute perfection.  It can be eaten with crusty bread or served alongside other traditional vegetable salads like carrot salad or Moroccan caramelized pumpkin salad.  It can also be enjoyed alongside grilled meats or seafood.  Zaalouk is traditionally prepared by charring eggplants over coals to impart an iconic smoky flavor but if you’re making it at home, you can simplify the process by charring the eggplants on a gas stove or under the broiler.  

Elevate Your Culinary Experience with Authentic Ingredients

To truly capture the authentic flavors of Morocco, it's essential to use high-quality, authentic ingredients. Unbelievably fragrant Moroccan cumin is a must along with a splash of traditional Moroccan vinegar.  Explore our collection of Moroccan Spices and get the Moroccan Vinegar on bsaha.

The Art of Preparation: How to Make Zaalouk

2 medium sized eggplants, charred over an open flame

2 large tomatoes, peeled and seeded

4T olive oil

4 cloves of garlic, minced

2t ground Moroccan Cumin

2t ground Moroccan Paprika  

1/4t cayenne pepper, optional 

2T finely chopped parsley 

2T finely chopped cilantro 

1.5T white Moroccan vinegar or lemon juice 

Salt to taste

Prick your eggplants several times with a fork.  Then, char the eggplants directly over the flame of a gas stove or under a broiler set at the highest heat until the eggplants are completely blackened and soft.  Turn halfway through cooking ensure both sides of the eggplant are cooked; about 35 minutes directly under the broiler.

While the eggplants cook peel, seed and dice tomatoes.  Set aside.  Once the eggplants are cool enough to handle, peel, coarsely chop and sauté in a pan over medium heat with olive oil, garlic and a pinch of salt.  After about 10 minutes, add tomatoes, cumin, paprika, cayenne (if using) along with chopped parsley and cilantro.  Cook over medium heat until the tomatoes are cooked and the flavors have come together.  Mash the mixture with the back of the spoon while cooking to ensure a smooth mixture. 

Add vinegar or lemon juice and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.  Adjust seasoning and enjoy!  Zaalouk is best prepared a day in advance and brought to room temperature before serving the next day. 

Variation:  It's possible to add the rind of a preserved lemon that's been finely chopped at the end of cooking when the vinegar is added.  Do not salt the zaalouk until after the preserved lemon has been added as they can be quite salty.  

Experience the Magic of Moroccan Cuisine

Zaalouk is not just a dish; it's a nostalgic reminder and celebration of Moroccan culinary traditions passed down through generations. Whether enjoyed as a side dish, a dip with crusty bread or a flavorful accompaniment to grilled meats, Zaalouk will transport you to Morocco.

Ready to embark on a gastronomic journey?  Try our recipe today and savor the exotic flavors of the Maghreb at home.

Stay tuned for more recipes and culinary inspirations from bsaha, your ultimate destination for authentic Moroccan and North African products.

As always, B’saha & Bon Appétit!