Muhammara Variations: 3 Bold Twists on the Classic Dip
Move over hummus—there’s a new Middle Eastern dip in the spotlight, and it’s bursting with smoky sweetness and nutty richness. Meet muhammara, the vibrant Syrian spread made from roasted red peppers and walnuts.
But what if we told you that muhammara is just the beginning?
In this guide, we’re diving into three creative muhammara variations that retain the heart of the original but introduce bold new ingredients. Whether you’re a mezze enthusiast or simply dip-curious, these recipes will elevate your appetiser game.
Love bold Middle Eastern spreads? Try our Roasted Romano Peppers—they pair perfectly with muhammara.
🌶️ What Is Muhammara?
Originating in Aleppo, Syria, muhammara (meaning “reddened”) is a traditional Levantine dip made with:
- Roasted red peppers
- Walnuts
- Olive oil
- Breadcrumbs
- Garlic
- Pomegranate molasses
- Spices (typically Aleppo pepper, cumin, salt)
It’s rich, smoky, slightly sweet, and delightfully savoury with a coarse texture—perfect as a dip, spread, or sauce.
🧂 Why Make Variations?
The classic recipe is perfect as it is—but with a few bold twists, you can:
- Add depth or heat
- Create colourful mezze boards
- Incorporate seasonal ingredients
- Tailor it to different diets (vegan, keto, nut-free)
Let’s explore three mouth-watering versions:
🟣 1. Beetroot & Walnut Muhammara
Flavour profile: earthy, vibrant, subtly sweet
Perfect for: winter mezze spreads, holiday appetisers
Ingredients:
- 1 medium beetroot, roasted and peeled
- 1 roasted red pepper (jarred works too)
- ½ cup walnuts
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp pomegranate molasses
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, cumin, and chilli flakes to taste
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth but textured.
- Adjust with more molasses or lemon to balance sweetness.
- Serve with fresh mint and toasted pita.
Why it works: Beetroot adds a stunning colour and earthy base that blends perfectly with the smoky peppers and crunchy walnuts.
🌰 2. Muhammara with Cashews & Chipotle
Flavour profile: smoky, bold, slightly spicy
Perfect for: taco nights, BBQ boards, chip dipping
Ingredients:
- 2 roasted red peppers
- ½ cup raw cashews (soaked for 1 hr)
- 1 chipotle in adobo (or 1 tsp chipotle paste)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and olive oil
Instructions:
- Blend until creamy but thick.
- Add more chipotle if you like it spicy.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and a drizzle of lime oil.
Why it works: The cashews create a creamy mouthfeel, and chipotle adds that fire-kissed intensity. It’s muhammara with a smoky Latin twist.
🍊 3. Muhammara with Roasted Carrot & Orange Zest
Flavour profile: bright, sweet-savory, zingy
Perfect for: brunch toast, crudité platters, cheese boards
Ingredients:
- 1 roasted carrot
- 1 roasted red pepper
- Zest of ½ orange
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- ½ cup walnuts
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tbsp breadcrumbs
- Olive oil, salt, cumin
Instructions:
- Blend until smooth with a soft spreadable texture.
- Taste and balance with salt or juice.
- Top with sesame seeds and a little thyme.
Why it works: Carrot lightens the texture, and the citrus makes it incredibly fresh—ideal for spring/summer mezze.
🥄 Serving Suggestions
| Muhammara Version | Best With |
|---|---|
| Beetroot & Walnut | Rye crackers, goat cheese, mint tea |
| Chipotle & Cashew | Tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats |
| Carrot & Orange Zest | Toasted sourdough, labneh, cucumber sticks |
Also try:
- Swirled on hummus
- In sandwiches
- As a pasta sauce base
- With grilled fish or tofu
🔥 Muhammara FAQs
1. Is muhammara vegan?
Yes, most versions are naturally vegan and gluten-free if made without breadcrumbs or with GF alternatives.
2. Can I make it without pomegranate molasses?
You can use balsamic reduction, date syrup or lemon + honey for a similar sweet-tart touch.
3. How long does muhammara last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it keeps for 4–5 days.
4. Can I freeze muhammara?
Yes! Freeze in small portions and defrost as needed. Best for cooked uses after freezing.
5. What nuts work best?
Walnuts are traditional, but almonds, cashews, pistachios and sunflower seeds all work well.
✨ Final Thoughts
Muhammara is more than a dip—it’s a deeply flavourful base that welcomes bold twists. Whether you’re hosting a mezze night or spicing up your snack game, these three variations offer a refreshing take on the Middle Eastern classic.
So go beyond tradition—your crackers (and taste buds) will thank you.
