Cookbook:Filfel Chuma (Libyan Spicy Tomato Sauce)

Filfel chuma is a popular spicy tomato sauce in Libyan cuisine. It is known for its vibrant red color, bold flavors, and fiery kick. This versatile sauce is made with a combination of tomatoes, garlic, chili peppers, and various spices. It can be used as a condiment, marinade, or base for other dishes.

Ingredients

 * 2 tablespoons olive oil
 * 4–5 cloves of garlic, minced
 * 2–3 hot chile peppers (such as cayenne pepper or serrano pepper), finely chopped
 * 4–5 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
 * 1 teaspoon ground cumin
 * 1 teaspoon ground paprika
 * ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)
 * ½ teaspoon ground coriander
 * Salt and pepper, to taste
 * 1 tablespoon tomato paste
 * 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
 * Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

 * Saucepan
 * Wooden spoon or spatula

Procedure

 * 1) Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
 * 2) Add the minced garlic and finely chopped chili peppers. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
 * 3) Add the chopped tomatoes to the saucepan and stir well.
 * 4) Sprinkle the ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, coriander, salt, and pepper over the tomatoes. Mix the spices into the sauce.
 * 5) Stir in the tomato paste. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.
 * 6) Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool slightly.
 * 7) Transfer the sauce to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. Alternatively, if you prefer a chunky texture, you can skip this step.
 * 8) Stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
 * 9) Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
 * 10) Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Adjust the spiciness of the sauce by adding more or less chili peppers according to your tolerance.
 * This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
 * Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. You can also use canned tomatoes as a substitute when fresh tomatoes are not in season.
 * For a smoky flavor, you can roast the tomatoes before adding them to the saucepan.
 * Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or a dash of vinegar for a unique twist to the flavor profile.
 * Customize the sauce by adding other spices such as oregano, thyme, or sumac.