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Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by finely chopping the tomatoes, cucumber, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add Garlic and Herbs:
Mince the garlic and add it to the bowl. Finely chop the fresh parsley and mint, and add them as well.
Seasoning:
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the vegetables. Add the olive oil, red pepper flakes, and ground sumac if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix Well:
Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated with the lemon juice and olive oil dressing.
Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the Ezme chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy:
Serve the Ezme with fresh bread, pita, or as a side dish to grilled meats and other main courses. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing and healthy snack.
Tips for Best Results
Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest vegetables and herbs you can find to maximize the flavor and nutritional benefits of your Ezme.
Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For more heat, add extra flakes or a small chopped chili pepper.
Balanced Flavor: Taste the Ezme before serving and adjust the seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as needed.
Conclusion
Ezme is a vibrant, flavorful Turkish vegetable snack that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Taught by a Turkish chef, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Turkish cuisine with its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, an appetizer, or a healthy snack, Ezme is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Turkey in your own kitchen!
Here’s to delicious, healthy eating with the wonderful flavors of Ezme!
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