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 the garlic and herbs:
Crush the garlic and add it to the bowl. Finely chop the fresh parsley and mint and add them as well.
Spices:
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.
Mix Well:
Mix all ingredients well. Coat the vegetables evenly with lemon juice and olive oil dressing.
Chill and Serve:
For best flavor, cover the bowl and let the ezme chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend.
Enjoy:
Serve the ezme with fresh bread, pita bread, or as a side dish with grilled meats and other main dishes. 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 nutrients of your ezme.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For more heat, add additional 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 if needed.
Conclusion: Ezme is a vibrant and flavorful Turkish vegetable snack that is both easy to prepare and incredibly filling. Learned from a Turkish chef, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Turkish cuisine with its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you serve it as a side dish, an appetizer, or a healthy snack, Ezme will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Try it and enjoy the taste of turkey in your own kitchen!
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