Acuka (Spicy Pepper Spread)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions:

1. Begin by roasting the red bell peppers. You can do this by placing them under the broiler or directly over a gas flame until the skins are charred and blistered. Once roasted, transfer the peppers to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let them steam for about 10 minutes. Peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and chop the peppers finely.

2. In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted red peppers, chopped walnuts, minced garlic, tomato paste, olive oil, red pepper flakes, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.

3. Pulse the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. Some prefer a chunkier spread, while others prefer it smoother.

4. Taste the acuka and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.

5. Transfer the acuka to a bowl or jar and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve the acuka as a spread on bread, crackers, or as a dip for vegetables. It’s also delicious served alongside cheese and olives as part of a Turkish breakfast spread.

7. Enjoy the bold and spicy flavors of this homemade acuka!