Muhammara: Syrian pâté with roasted pepper, walnuts and pomegranate

Muhammara is a very creamy Arabic dip made from peppers and walnuts which, although very popular throughout the Middle East, originates from Aleppo, Syria.

It is an exotic, addictive starter that is very easy to make and in which, although the peppers and walnuts are the stars, it is the pomegranate that gives it that unmistakable touch.

The combination of its ingredients creates a flavour full of nuances, dominated by spicy and sweet notes blending with the intensity of the pepper.

This spread is ideal served with pitta bread, naan (a traditional bread from Central and South Asia) or crackers, as well as with grilled vegetables, nachos or crisps, and even spread in sandwiches.

As for its nutritional properties, thanks to the peppers and walnuts, this dip is rich in beta-carotene, lycopene, protein, fibre, lecithin, polyphenols, omega-3, 6 and 9; vitamins A, C, E and B-group vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6 and B9 or folic acid); calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, boron and copper.

In addition, the pomegranate juice provides an extra dose of vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid and potassium, as well as carbohydrates, flavonoids, omega-5 fatty acids, potassium and, in smaller amounts, vitamin B5, iron, sodium, selenium and zinc.