‘Matbucha’ is an old Maghrebi Jew recipe which subsequently landed in the Iberian peninsula. That's why this tasty recipe from the Arab world became known in Europe. It is a cooked salad of tomatoes, peppers and onions with the addition of various spices, garlic, chili and other fragrant and delicious ingredients. Serve with bread, garlic bread, tortillas or, if you have any, with challah, the typical bread of the Sabbath.
* approximate values per serving
Take the tomatoes and hold them briefly over a naked flame so that they peel easily. Then chop them up, and do the same with some garlic. Drain the peppers from their preserving oil. Take a frying pan and add a tablespoon of the oil from the peppers. Add the chopped garlic and the sun-dried tomato paste, then the ground fennel, coriander and cumin seeds, along with some chilli. Add the chopped onion, the tomatoes and the passata. Mix well. Add the spices and cook, adjust the salt if necessary and serve on bruschetta.
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Roast the tomatoes
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Prepare all the ingredients
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Skin and chop the tomatoes
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Finely chop the garlic
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Drain the peppers in oil
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Grind the fennel seeds
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Grind the coriander seeds
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Grind the cumin seeds
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Put some of the drained pepper oil in a frying pan
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Add some chopped onions
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Chop the garlic
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Salt the garlic
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Add the garlic and the chopped up peppers
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Add some sun-dried tomato paste
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Add the ground spices and chilli
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Now it’s the turn of the tomatoes
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Mix well
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Mix in the passata
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Add a bouquet garni of herbs and cook for a few minutes
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A delicious variant of the traditional Matbucha recipe includes the addition of preserved peppers, which give the dish a rich flavor and unmistakable aroma. To prepare this version, it is important to choose high-quality peppers, preferably sweet and well-preserved. The inclusion of the peppers enriches not only the taste but also the texture of the preparation, making it creamier and more enveloping. The oil from the preserved peppers will be used to sauté the garlic, creating a flavorful base for the rest of the ingredients. The combination of fresh tomatoes and tomato puree, along with aromatic spices, makes this variant of Matbucha a perfect dish to accompany bread or serve as an appetizer. Experiment with the amount of peppers to find the right balance of flavors according to your personal taste.
The preparation of Moroccan Matbucha represents a true journey through the flavors of North Africa. This dish, typical of Moroccan cuisine, is distinguished by the use of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices, such as coriander and cumin. The technique of roasting the tomatoes over an open flame before peeling them is a fundamental step that enhances their flavor, making the sauce more intense and fragrant. Often served as an appetizer, Matbucha can be accompanied with pita bread or focaccia, making it ideal for a convivial meal. In this version, do not forget to add a pinch of chili for a touch of spiciness, which will balance the sweetness of the tomatoes and peppers. The preparation requires few steps, but the final result is a dish that encapsulates the essence of Moroccan culinary tradition.
For those who desire a lighter option, the recipe for Light Matbucha without oil is a perfect choice. By reducing the use of oil or even omitting it, it is possible to keep the dish tasty and healthy. In this version, you can opt for steaming the tomatoes and onions, which preserves their nutritional properties and fresh flavor. Fresh aromatic herbs, such as parsley or basil, can also be added for an extra touch of freshness. The result will be a Matbucha with an intense flavor, but with a significantly reduced caloric intake. This variant is ideal for those following a balanced diet but do not want to give up on taste. Additionally, it is perfect to serve as a light side dish for meat or fish dishes.
Matbucha is a dish rich in fresh and healthy ingredients, with significant nutritional value. Tomatoes, the main ingredient, are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that contributes to heart health and cell protection. Additionally, they provide vitamins A and C, essential for the immune system. The onions and garlic present in the recipe have anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate cholesterol levels. On average, a serving of Matbucha provides about 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This preparation is therefore an excellent choice for those looking for a flavorful yet healthy dish, perfect for any occasion.
One of the most common questions regarding Matbucha is whether it can be frozen. The answer is yes, Matbucha can be frozen without any problems. It is advisable to do so after cooking, allowing the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or food bags. This way, the flavor and texture of the dish will remain intact. When you want to consume it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it slowly in a pan or microwave. However, it is important to note that the texture may slightly change, but the taste will still be delicious. Freezing Matbucha is an excellent solution to always have a ready and flavorful dish on hand.