Ikra (Икра)

Ikra, meaning "caviar" in Russian, is a vegetable spread made from roasted eggplants, tomatoes, and peppers. Despite its name, it contains no fish eggs. The name comes from its texture. This spread is popular throughout Russia and Eastern Europe, served on bread or as a side dish. The vegetables are charred for a smoky flavor.

Region & Occasion

Ingredients

• •3 large eggplants
• •2 red bell peppers
• •4 ripe tomatoes
• •1 large onion, finely diced
• •3 garlic cloves, minced
• •3 tbsp vegetable oil
• •2 tbsp tomato paste
• •1 tbsp lemon juice
• •Salt and black pepper to taste
• •Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• •Pinch of sugar (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. 1Prick eggplants with fork. Char eggplants and peppers over open flame or under broiler until skin blackens and blisters.
2. 2Place charred vegetables in bowl, cover with plastic wrap. Let steam for 15 minutes.
3. 3Peel off charred skins. Remove seeds from peppers. Chop vegetables finely.
4. 4Score tomatoes, blanch in boiling water for 1 minute. Peel, seed, and dice.
5. 5Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until golden, about 8 minutes.
6. 6Add garlic, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7. 7Add chopped eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes. Stir in tomato paste.
8. 8Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until thick and jammy.
9. 9Season with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and sugar if desired.
10. 10Stir in fresh herbs. Cool to room temperature or refrigerate.
11. 11Serve on toasted bread or as accompaniment to grilled meats.

Tags

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