Qalaya

Ingredients
Serves 4 as part of a mezze spread or starter:

• 4 large plum tomatoes
• 4 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 green chilli
• salt
• ground black pepper

Step-by-step guide 

1. Begin by pouring boiling water over the tomatoes and allow them to sit for a few minutes until the skin can be easily removed. 

2. Slice the tomatoes on a chopping board, being careful not to waste the juice. 

3. Finely chop the garlic and chilli. 

4. Heat the olive oil in a shallow pan over a medium-high heat — add the tomatoes, chilli, garlic, salt and pepper and cook for 18 minutes, stirring occasionally. 

5. The dish is ready when the sauce has thickened and the tomatoes have broken down. 

Enjoy qalaya hot or at room temperature with bread on the side.