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Muhammara

Muhammara is a vibrant, silken red pepper and walnut dip that originates from Aleppo, Syria. This vegan dish offers a sophisticated balance of smoky, sweet, and savoury notes, thanks to the combination of charred peppers and tangy pomegranate molasses. The addition of toasted walnuts provides a rich, earthy depth and a satisfying texture that sets it apart from other Mediterranean dips. It is a colourful addition to any table and is particularly delicious when served at room temperature with warm flatbread.

This nutritious homemade dip is naturally plant-based and packed with heart-healthy fats from the nuts and olive oil. Whether you are preparing a traditional mezze spread or looking for a healthy snack to keep in the fridge, this versatile recipe is sure to become a kitchen staple. It works beautifully as a sandwich spread or even as a bold accompaniment to grilled vegetables and roasted meats.

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Ingredients for Muhammara

  • 150g walnuts

  • 3 large red peppers

  • 60g fine fresh breadcrumbs

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons Aleppo-style or Maras pepper or other mild chilli flakes

  • 1 tablespoon tahini

  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1/2 teaspoons paprika

  • 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses, plus more for drizzling

  • Kosher salt

Preheat oven to 177°C. Toast walnuts on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing halfway through, until golden brown and fragrant, 8–10 minutes. Let cool. Pick out a few walnuts for serving and coarsely chop; set aside.

Meanwhile, place a rack in upper third of oven and heat grill. Grill peppers on a rimmed baking sheet, turning occasionally, until skins are charred and flesh is softened, 12–15 minutes. (Alternatively, you can char over a gas burner on medium-high, turning occasionally with tongs, 12–15 minutes.)

Transfer peppers to a medium bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap so that they steam, 10 minutes (this extends the cooking and also makes it easier to remove the skins).

Remove skins from peppers (it’s okay if some bits don’t come off); remove and discard ribs and seeds. Pulse peppers, breadcrumbs, oil, Aleppo-style pepper, tahini, lemon juice, paprika, remaining walnuts, and 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses in a food processor until mostly smooth; season muhammara with salt.

Transfer muhammara to a small bowl; drizzle with more pomegranate molasses and top with reserved chopped walnuts.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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