Ajvar is a traditional Serbian relish made primarily from roasted red bell peppers, and sometimes includes eggplant, garlic, and chili peppers. It’s a staple in Serbian cuisine, often enjoyed as a spread on bread, a side dish, or a condiment. The process of making Ajvar is time-consuming, involving roasting and peeling the peppers, but the result is a richly flavored, smooth, and slightly smoky spread that’s deeply cherished across the Balkans.

Ingredients:

• 2 kg red bell peppers
• 1 medium eggplant (optional, about 300g)
• 3-4 garlic cloves
• 50 ml sunflower oil (or other neutral oil)
• 1-2 tablespoons vinegar (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1-2 chili peppers (optional, for spicier ajvar)

Instructions:

1. Roast the Vegetables:

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
   • Place the whole red bell peppers and eggplant on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the skins are charred and the flesh is tender.
   • Once roasted, place the peppers and eggplant in a large bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a lid. Let them steam for about 15-20 minutes to make peeling easier.

2. Peel and Prepare:

   • Peel the skin off the peppers and eggplant, remove the seeds, and drain any excess liquid.
   • In a food processor or using a meat grinder, process the peppers and eggplant into a smooth or slightly chunky mixture, depending on your preference.

3. Cook the Ajvar:

   • In a large pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat.
   • Add the pepper and eggplant mixture to the pan. Stir in the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 45-60 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld together.
   • Season with salt, and if using, add vinegar and finely chopped chili peppers.
   • Continue cooking until the ajvar reaches your desired consistency, which should be thick and spreadable.

4. Store the Ajvar:

   • Once cooked, allow the ajvar to cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars.
   • Seal the jars tightly and store in the refrigerator, where it can last for several weeks, or process in a water bath for long-term storage.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 100g):

• Calories: ~90-120 kcal
• Proteins: ~1-2g
• Carbs: ~8-10g
• Fiber: ~3-4g

Nutritional Summary: Ajvar is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich spread that provides a good amount of fiber due to the high content of vegetables. It’s also low in protein and fat, making it a healthy condiment to add flavor to various dishes without significantly increasing caloric intake. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness and smokiness of the peppers, making Ajvar a flavorful addition to any meal.