Awesome Alternative to Hummus

Judy Walker recently discovered the delight of this dip. Pomegranate molasses and red pepper paste (if you don't want to roast and mash your own) are available at the Middle Eastern Bakery or any such deli. I found that New Mexico red chile pepper is a great alternative to the chile pepper. Check out Judy's blog for more great recipes from NOLA:
http://blog.nola.com/judywalker/

Muhammara
(Red Pepper-Pomegranate Molasses Dip)


Ingredients
2 1/2 pounds sweet red bell peppers
1 small hot chile pepper or 1 tablespoon Turkish red pepper paste
1 1/2 cups walnuts
1/2 cup wheat crackers or zweibach
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoon pomegranate molasses, or more to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, more for garnish
salt to taste
1/2 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoons olive oil, more for garnish


1. Roast the peppers and chili over a gas burner or under a broiler, turning frequently until blackened and blistered all over, about 12 minutes. Place in a covered bowl to steam for 10 minutes. Rub off the skins, slit peppers open, and remove stems, membranes and seeds. Spread the peppers, smooth side up, on a paper towel and let drain for 10 minutes.
2. In a food processor, grind the walnuts and crackers with the lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, cumin, salt, and sugar until smooth. Add the bell peppers and process until puréed and creamy.
3. With the machine on, add the olive oil in a thin stream. Add the chile to taste. If the paste is too thick, thin with 1 to 2 tablespoons of water. Refrigerate overnight.
4. To serve, let the dip come to room temperature and sprinkle with cumin and olive oil.