Dinner

Muhammara (Red Pepper & Walnut Dip) Recipe

Name: Muhammara (Red Pepper & Walnut Dip) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 3 red peppers; 70g walnut halves; 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses; ½ tsp hot chilli flakes; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp tomato paste; 1 small garlic clove, crushed; handful of breadcrumbs; ¾ tsp fine sea salt; olive oil, to serve; handful of coriander leaves, to serve

ByEthan Lark January 16, 2026January 16, 2026

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Introduction

Muhammara is a vibrant Middle Eastern dip made from roasted red peppers and walnuts, bursting with smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. This simple yet flavorful spread is perfect for entertaining or adding a delicious twist to your everyday meals.

A round blue and white patterned plate holds a thick, chunky reddish-orange spread arranged in a ring shape, with a small hollow in the center. Inside this hollow are whole walnut halves standing upright, surrounded by finely chopped green herbs sprinkled over the spread. The plate sits on a dark wooden surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 red peppers
70g walnut halves
1 tbsp pomegranate molasses
½ tsp hot chilli flakes
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp tomato paste
1 small garlic clove, crushed
handful of breadcrumbs
¾ tsp fine sea salt
olive oil, to serve
handful of coriander leaves, to serve

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or gas mark 8. Roast the red peppers for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are tender and the skin begins to blister. If blistering doesn’t occur, place them under the grill for a few minutes. Let them cool slightly, then peel off and discard the skins. Remove and discard the seeds, and finely chop the pepper flesh.
Step 2: Toast the walnut halves in the oven for 5 minutes until lightly browned. Set aside four whole walnuts for garnish, then grind the remaining walnuts in a spice grinder until they are finely crushed but still retain some texture.
Step 3: In a bowl, combine the ground walnuts with the chopped peppers. Add the pomegranate molasses, hot chilli flakes, ground cumin, tomato paste, crushed garlic, breadcrumbs, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly and adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Transfer the muhammara to a serving plate. Drizzle generously with olive oil, place the reserved whole walnuts in the center, and scatter coriander leaves around the edge for a fresh finish.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer a smoother dip, pulse the mixture a few times in a food processor instead of mixing by hand.
For extra depth, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika.
Use fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter texture or substitute with panko for more crunch.
If pomegranate molasses isn’t available, a mixture of honey and lemon juice can provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor.

Storage

Store muhammara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, bring it to room temperature and stir to restore its creamy texture. It can also be served chilled, depending on your preference.

How to Serve

A white plate with blue patterns holds one layer of chunky orange-red dip spread in a ring shape, showing a rough, textured surface with bits of ingredients visible. Inside the ring, a small pool of shiny reddish-orange oil reflects light. On top of the dip, scattered green chopped herbs add color, and in the center, a cluster of large walnut halves stands vertically, adding height and a rough brown texture. The plate sits on a wooden table, giving a warm tone around the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make muhammara ahead of time?

Yes, muhammara actually develops richer flavors when left to rest for a few hours or overnight in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead dip.

Is muhammara gluten-free?

The traditional recipe includes breadcrumbs, which contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or omit them altogether.