Authentic Macedonian Pinjur Recipe

Ingredients

6 large red bell peppers
2 eggplants
3 tomatoes
4 cloves of garlic
1/2 cup of olive oil
1 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of black pepper
1 tablespoon of vinegar
1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash the bell peppers, eggplants, and tomatoes. Dry them thoroughly.
Place the vegetables on a baking sheet and brush them with some olive oil.
Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until their skins are blistered and slightly blackened.
Remove the vegetables from the oven and let them cool. Once they are cool enough to handle, peel off their skins and remove the seeds.
Place the roasted vegetables in a food processor or blender. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pulse the mixture a few times until it reaches your desired consistency. You can make it as chunky or as smooth as you like.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir in the vinegar, the remaining olive oil, and the chopped parsley. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Refrigerate the pinjur for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy your pinjur as a spread on bread, as a dip for vegetables, or as a side dish with grilled meat.

Tools for making

Baking sheet - Used to roast the vegetables in the oven.
Food processor or blender - Used to puree the roasted vegetables and other ingredients.
Knife - Used to wash and chop the vegetables, as well as remove their skins and seeds.
Cutting board - Provides a surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons - Used to accurately measure the ingredients.
Spatula or wooden spoon - Used to transfer and mix the ingredients in the bowl.
Bowl - Used for mixing the ingredients and storing the pinjur.
Refrigerator - Used to chill the pinjur before serving.

Recipe variations

Add roasted onions for a sweeter flavor.
Include a spicy kick by adding chopped chili peppers or red pepper flakes.
Experiment with different herbs and spices such as basil, oregano, or cumin.
Try using different types of peppers like yellow or orange bell peppers.
Add a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
For a smoky flavor, roast the vegetables on a grill instead of in the oven.
Include roasted pine nuts or walnuts for some added crunch.
For a creamier texture, mix in some Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Replace the tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
Make it spicy by adding a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Recipe overview

Pinjur is a delicious and versatile spread originating from the Balkans. It's made from a blend of roasted red peppers, eggplants, and tomatoes, which are pureed together and seasoned with garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and fresh parsley. This dish is a wonderful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors - a perfect accompaniment to bread or grilled meat, or even as a dip for fresh vegetables. This recipe is simple to follow, but it does require some time to roast and peel the vegetables. Don't worry though, the end result is definitely worth the effort! Once you've made this, it can be refrigerated and enjoyed for several days. Get ready to treat yourself with this amazing and healthy spread!

Common questions

Can I use other types of bell peppers? Yes, you can use other types of bell peppers such as yellow or orange peppers, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste and color of the pinjur.
Can I substitute the vinegar with lemon juice? Yes, you can substitute the vinegar with an equal amount of freshly squeezed lemon juice for a slightly tangier flavor.
Can I grill the vegetables instead of roasting them in the oven? Yes, grilling the vegetables will give the pinjur a smoky flavor. Simply brush the vegetables with olive oil and place them on a preheated grill until they are charred and tender.
Can I store pinjur in the refrigerator? Yes, pinjur can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to give it a stir before serving as the olive oil may separate slightly.
Can I freeze pinjur? Yes, pinjur can be frozen for up to 3 months. Divide it into portion-sized containers or freezer bags for easy thawing. Thaw the pinjur in the refrigerator overnight and stir before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking Sheet - Used for roasting the vegetables in the oven.
Food Processor or Blender - To blend and pulse the roasted vegetables into a smooth or chunky mixture.
Knife and Cutting Board - For cutting and preparing the vegetables.
Spatula or Spoon - To transfer the pinjur mixture from the food processor to a bowl.
Bowl - To mix and serve the pinjur.
Refrigerator - To chill the pinjur before serving.

Origin stories

Pinjur, a delicious and hearty spread, finds its roots in the Balkan Peninsula, an area known for its rich and diverse gastronomical history. This region stretches across Southeastern Europe and includes countries like Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Serbia. Known for the simplicity of its ingredients and the complexity of its flavors, Pinjur represents the quintessential summer dish in these regions. It is traditionally prepared when the vegetables are at their ripest during the hot summer months. The process of roasting and peeling the vegetables, which may seem laborious to some, is often a communal activity, bringing together families and neighbors. Thus, Pinjur is not just a meal, but an embodiment of community and togetherness in the Balkan culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.