If you're searching for a keto-friendly side dish bursting with flavor, try Zaalouk, a hearty eggplant dip from North Africa. It is one of the basic salads of Moroccan cuisine and combines the smoky richness of eggplants with the zest of tomatoes and aromatic spices, all bound together by garlic and olive oil.
Use a large wooden spoon to mash all the ingredients together.
Simmer till the liquids are reduced.
Notes
Serve chilled: Let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving, or serve it at room temperature.
Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your heat tolerance. Zaalouk can be as mild or spicy as you desire.
Add a drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the top for an extra layer of richness and flavor.
Experiment with herbs: Swap out parsley and cilantro for other fresh herbs like mint or basil to add an intriguing twist to the dish.
Serve with keto crackers: Enjoy Zaalouk with keto-friendly crackers or slices of cucumber as a light and satisfying snack.
Experiment with the texture: Some people like Zaalouk with a pureed consistency, and others like it chunky. You can play around with the amount that you mash up the vegetables. Feel free to use a food processor to blend this dip.
Use less tomato: By using less tomato, the flavor of the eggplant will truly shine.
Add roasted red peppers for more vegetables, which will also slightly change the flavor profile.
Roast the eggplant: Before throwing everything into the pot, roast the eggplant on a baking sheet for a smoky flavor.
Only partially peel the eggplant for a more colorful salad.