Name: Spicy Turkish Ezme Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 small white or yellow onion, very finely chopped; 1 tbsp Turkish red pepper paste (biber salçası); 1 tbsp double concentrated tomato paste; 4 medium ripe tomatoes, halved, seeds removed and very finely chopped; 2–3 small hot green peppers (like serrano or jalapeno), seeds removed and very finely chopped; ¼ cup parsley, finely chopped; 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves, finely chopped; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ½ lemon, juiced; pinch Kosher salt, to taste; dash Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp walnuts, roughly chopped, for serving

Spicy Turkish Ezme Dip

A vibrant and zesty Turkish dip bursting with fresh flavors, perfect as a spread or side for grilled meats.

Prep15 min

Cook15 min

Total15 min

DifficultyEasy

Servings4

Hailing from the southern regions of Türkiye, Ezme is a beloved relish that graces tables in kebab houses across the country and beyond. Its charm lies in the harmonious blend of simple, fresh ingredients, elevated by a touch of red pepper paste, tomato paste, and extra virgin olive oil, creating a surprisingly complex and addictive flavor profile.

This versatile dip is more than just a condiment; it's a celebration of fresh produce and bold flavors. It's incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for gatherings or a quick flavor boost to any meal. The slight heat from the peppers and the tang from the lemon juice create a refreshing balance that complements a wide array of dishes.

Method

In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, Turkish red pepper paste, and double concentrated tomato paste. Use your hands to thoroughly knead and mix these ingredients, allowing the pastes to fully infuse the onion.
Add the very finely chopped tomatoes, finely chopped hot green peppers, chopped parsley, and chopped mint to the bowl. Mix everything together well with your hands to ensure the flavors meld. Drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference, and mix once more.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the Ezme for at least an hour before serving. This resting period is crucial for allowing the flavors to develop and harmonize.
To serve, transfer the Ezme to a serving dish. For a delightful textural contrast and a modern touch, sprinkle the roughly chopped walnuts over the top.

💡 Tips

For best results, finely chop all vegetables by hand rather than using a food processor, which can make the mixture too watery.
The Ezme can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen even further.

Spicy Turkish Ezme Dip

Ingredients

Method

💡 Tips

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