Willful; An appetizer of Lebanese and Hatay cuisine that combines roasted eggplant and tahini. If you want to try a different variation with beetroot, which is a source of health and healing, you can try this easy and quick recipe. Enjoy your meal!
Wash and peel the beets. Put it all in the pot and add enough water to cover it. Boil for about 20 minutes on medium heat. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or fork and remove from the fire and leave to cool.
When the beets you have taken into a deep bowl have cooled, pass them on the coarse side of the grater.
Add tahini, crushed garlic, strained yogurt, salt and sumac (you can add black pepper, cumin, etc. instead of sumac) to the grated beets and mix well.
Let your appetizer mix rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Take it on a serving plate and drizzle with olive oil and sumac and serve cold. Enjoy your meal!
Note: You can make this appetizer by adding ground walnuts and decorate with walnuts and parsley leaves.
Keep in mind: You can click on each ingredient to find other recipes that use that ingredient.
Beet:
Beetroot, thanks to its high nitrate content, helps balance blood pressure, while its rich betalain pigments offer powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its fiber content supports the digestive system. Used in salads, pickles, and smoothies, beetroot pairs wonderfully with ingredients like goat cheese, walnuts, and citrus.
Tahini:
Tahini is a nutritious paste made from ground sesame seeds. It's rich in Omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids, Vitamin E, and antioxidants. It contains calcium and magnesium, supporting bone health. Additionally, it can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. Tahini pairs wonderfully with dishes like hummus and baba ghanoush, and also with molasses for breakfast or in desserts.
Strained Yogurt:
Strained Yogurt is a thick, protein-rich dairy product obtained by removing its whey. Its high protein content is excellent for muscle development and sustained satiety. The straining process can lower lactose levels, potentially making it easier to digest for some. It's a good source of probiotics that support gut microbiota and calcium essential for strong bones. It pairs perfectly with garlic, olive oil, and fresh mint in savory appetizers, or with honey and fruits for breakfast or dessert.
Garlic:
Garlic, thanks to its allicin compound, offers strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can boost the immune system, increasing resistance against illnesses. Furthermore, it contributes to cardiovascular health by helping regulate blood pressure and balance cholesterol levels. Widely used in traditional medicine, garlic is also known for its digestive support effects. An indispensable ingredient in meat dishes, vegetable sautés, and Mediterranean cuisine, it pairs wonderfully with herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Lemon Juice:
Lemon juice, rich in Vitamin C, boosts immunity and supports collagen synthesis for skin health. Its citrate content may help prevent kidney stone formation. A natural antioxidant, it reduces inflammation. It aids digestion by stimulating liver bile production. Added to water, it offers a detoxifying effect. Pairs perfectly with fish, chicken, salads, soups, marinades, and desserts, adding a refreshing and flavorful touch.
Fine Salt:
Fine salt is crucial for maintaining the body's vital electrolyte balance, playing a key role in nerve transmission and muscle functions. It supports cellular hydration and contributes to stomach acid production, aiding nutrient absorption. Consumed in moderation, it's essential for sustaining overall bodily functions. As a fundamental seasoning in almost all cuisines, it deepens the flavor of dishes from vegetables to meats, soups to salads, and enhances the aroma of other spices. It pairs wonderfully with black pepper, oregano, and garlic.
Sumac:
Sumac, a popular spice from the Rhus plant family, stands out with its lemony and slightly fruity taste. It contains powerful antioxidants, supporting its cell-protective effects. Known for its digestive benefits, it can particularly alleviate indigestion and bloating. It also possesses mild anti-inflammatory properties. Sumac adds a unique flavor to many dishes like lentil stews, salads, grilled chicken, and fish. It also pairs wonderfully with yogurt-based appetizers.
Olive Oil:
Olive oil, especially in its extra virgin form, is a powerful source of health benefits due to its high content of polyphenol antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid). It supports heart health by helping to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL). With its anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces inflammation in the body, prevents cell damage, and provides protection against chronic diseases. It supports the digestive system and contributes to skin health. An indispensable part of Mediterranean cuisine, it pairs wonderfully with salads, vegetable dishes, fish, legumes, and fresh bread.
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