Matbucha(Salade Cuite)

מטבוחה (Salade cuite)

LibyaSephardiShabbat Pareve 140 min 8 servings Easy

A slow-cooked tomato, pepper, garlic, and olive oil spread beloved in Libyan Jewish homes. Cooked down for hours until jammy and sweet-hot, it becomes a key part of the Friday night appetizer table and improves as it rests.

Ingredients

  • 6 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 3 red bell peppers, roasted, peeled, and chopped
  • 1-2 hot peppers, finely chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    If desired, roast the bell peppers first, then peel and chop them for a softer, sweeter texture.

  2. 2

    Place the tomatoes, peppers, hot peppers, garlic, and olive oil in a wide heavy pan.

  3. 3

    Add the paprika, salt, sugar, and black pepper and stir well.

  4. 4

    Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

  5. 5

    Lower the heat and cook uncovered for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally so it does not stick.

  6. 6

    As the liquid evaporates, continue cooking until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and spreadable.

  7. 7

    Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or heat if desired.

  8. 8

    Cool to room temperature and serve with bread, fish, or salads, or refrigerate overnight for even deeper flavor.

Kosher notes

Naturally pareve and ideal for Shabbat mezze. Use olive oil generously, as is traditional in Tripolitan preservation and flavoring.

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Global Jewish Kitchen — recipes are labeled meat, dairy, or pareve. We are not a kashrut agency. Customs differ. Ask your rabbi.