Madbucha

Discover the vibrant flavors of Madbucha, a traditional North African tomato and roasted red pepper salad that brings bold, smoky, and subtly spicy notes to your table. This classic dish combines slow-simmered Roma tomatoes, fire-roasted bell peppers, and garlic with warm spices like cumin and paprika, creating a rich, jam-like condiment that's both comforting and versatile. Its slow-cooked process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that's perfect as a dip, spread, or side dish. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, Madbucha shines as part of a mezze platter, paired with crusty bread or pita. Easy to make and packed with Mediterranean and North African appeal, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of bold, homemade flavors!

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 5 medium Roma tomatoes
• 2 large Red bell peppers
• 3 large Garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Directions

Step 1

Start by preparing the tomatoes. Boil water in a medium pot and score a small 'X' on the bottom of each tomato using a sharp knife.

Step 2

Place the tomatoes in the boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then transfer them to a bowl of ice water. Peel the skins off the tomatoes once cooled and dice them into small cubes.

Step 3

Roast the bell peppers over an open flame or under the broiler until their skins are charred and blistered. Place the roasted peppers in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let them steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and dice the peppers.

Step 4

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 5

Add the diced tomatoes and bell peppers to the pan. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Sprinkle in the paprika, cumin, salt, sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix thoroughly.

Step 7

Simmer the mixture on low heat for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow the liquid to reduce, and the mixture should thicken into a jam-like consistency.

Step 8

Taste the matbucha and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 9

Serve the matbucha chilled or at room temperature with bread, pita, or as part of a mezze platter.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	758.8 grams (758.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	608

Total Fat 44.60g	57%
Saturated Fat 7.00g	35%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2398mg	104%
Total Carbohydrate 46.50g	17%
Dietary Fiber 13.40g	48%
Total Sugars 25.10g
Protein 8.20g	16%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 117mg	9%
Iron 5mg	30%
Potassium 1719mg	37%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 64.7%

Protein: 5.3%

Carbs: 30.0%