What is the Belén Salad and How to Make this Aphrodisiac Dish at Home

Discover the aphrodisiac allure of the Belén salad and learn how to prepare this enticing dish at home.

A Journey to the Roots of the Belen Salad

In the vast culinary world, the origins of some dishes remain a mystery. One such enigma is the Belen salad. This classic staple of national cuisine has become renowned for its unique blend of fresh and acidic flavours, with some even attributing aphrodisiac properties to it.

Tracing the Origins

The genesis of the Belen salad can be traced back to the Middle East, specifically Armenia. Here, it incorporates traditional vegetables from the region such as eggplants, bell peppers, and an assortment of nuts. However, the salad has evolved over time, adapting to various local tastes and ingredients.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

One of the key ingredients in the Belen salad is avocado, which is rich in Vitamin E, a nutrient known to enhance the production of sexual hormones. Nuts or almonds, another component, are significant sources of zinc, essential for the healthy functioning of reproductive organs.

The Art of Preparing the Belen Salad

The Belen salad can be served as a hearty appetizer or a side dish to complement grilled meats. Its preparation is quick, requiring only a combination of ingredients and a vinaigrette dressing. The recipe for a serving for two includes:

• 2 large eggplants
• 2 red bell peppers (can be combined with yellow or green)
• 1 red onion
• 1 clove of garlic
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of toasted nuts, almonds or pistachios (whole or coarsely chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley

The preparation involves roasting the vegetables, peeling and cutting them, preparing the dressing, adding the nuts, and finally, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. The Belen salad is best served at room temperature or cold, making it a perfect choice for both warm and cool weather.