World Flavors Cookbook

Mesopotamian Onion and Garlic Relish

Roasted onions and garlic mixed with salt, oil, and vinegar — a simple ancient condiment that accompanied bread and meat throughout Mesopotamia.

Cuisine: Ancient World

Ingredients

• 4 large onions, unpeeled
• 2 whole heads garlic, unpeeled
• 3 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
• 2 tbsp vinegar (date vinegar preferred, or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tsp salt
• Fresh coriander

Instructions

1. Roast whole unpeeled onions and garlic directly over flame or in a 200C oven until charred outside and soft inside.
2. Peel while warm.
3. Chop onions roughly. Squeeze garlic from skin.
4. Mix together with oil, vinegar, and salt.
5. Add fresh coriander.
6. Serve at room temperature with flatbread.