Matbucha(Salade Cuite)

Ingredients

• •1/3 cup high-quality olive oil
• •6 ripe tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped
• •3 red bell peppers, finely chopped
• •1 hot chili pepper, finely chopped
• •6 garlic cloves, minced
• •1 tsp kosher salt
• •1/2 tsp ground paprika
• •1/4 tsp ground cumin
• •1 tbsp tomato paste
• •1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. 1

   Peel and finely chop the tomatoes, bell peppers, chili, and garlic.

2. 2

   Heat the olive oil in a heavy pan over medium heat and add the peppers and garlic; cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened.

3. 3

   Add the tomatoes, salt, paprika, cumin, and tomato paste, stirring well to combine.

4. 4

   Lower the heat and simmer uncovered very gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick and jammy.

5. 5

   Add the lemon juice and cook 5 minutes more to brighten the flavor.

6. 6

   Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight for the best taste.

7. 7

   Serve cold or at room temperature with bread, challah, or alongside fish and salads.