Creamy Baba Ganoush: A Flavorful Eggplant Dip
(0 Reviews)
Ingredients
-
2 medium Eggplants
(Choose firm, unblemished eggplants for best results.)
-
1/4 cup Tahini
(Can substitute with creamy peanut butter if needed.)
-
2 cloves Garlic
(Adjust based on your preference for garlic flavor.)
-
2 tablespoons Lemon juice
(Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended.)
-
2 tablespoons Olive oil
(Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor.)
-
1 teaspoon Salt
(Adjust to taste.)
-
1/2 teaspoon Cumin
(Adds a warm, earthy flavor.)
-
1/2 teaspoon Paprika
(For garnish; smoked paprika can add more depth.)
-
2 tablespoons Fresh parsley
(Chopped, for garnish.)
(Choose firm, unblemished eggplants for best results.)
(Can substitute with creamy peanut butter if needed.)
(Adjust based on your preference for garlic flavor.)
(Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended.)
(Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor.)
(Adjust to taste.)
(Adds a warm, earthy flavor.)
(For garnish; smoked paprika can add more depth.)
(Chopped, for garnish.)
Nutrition
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Calcium: 60 mg
- Iron: 1.5 mg
Instructions
-
1 - Roast the Eggplants:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Poke holes in the eggplants with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes until soft and charred.
-
2 - Prepare the Mixture:
Once the eggplants are cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh into a food processor. Add tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and cumin.
-
3 - Blend Until Smooth:
Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
-
4 - Serve:
Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika and parsley. Serve with pita bread or fresh veggies.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Poke holes in the eggplants with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes until soft and charred.
Once the eggplants are cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh into a food processor. Add tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and cumin.
Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika and parsley. Serve with pita bread or fresh veggies.
More About: Creamy Baba Ganoush: A Flavorful Eggplant Dip
Baba Ganoush: A Rich and Flavorful Eggplant Dip
Baba Ganoush is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that features roasted eggplants as its star ingredient, blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice to create a rich, smoky dip. This versatile dish can be served with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or even used as a spread in sandwiches. The origins of Baba Ganoush trace back to the Levant region, most notably Lebanon, where it has been enjoyed for centuries.
The key to a great Baba Ganoush lies in the roasting of the eggplant. Roasting imparts a deep, smoky flavor that can elevate the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Ensure that the eggplants are thoroughly charred; the skins will help to enhance the flavor as they caramelize.
When preparing Baba Ganoush, it's essential to balance the flavors. The creaminess of tahini complements the earthiness of the eggplant, while lemon juice adds brightness. Garlic introduces a subtle kick, and olive oil rounds out the flavors, enhancing the texture. You can customize this dip by adjusting the garlic or adding spices like cumin or paprika for extra depth.
Baba Ganoush not only serves as a delicious appetizer but also embodies the communal spirit of Middle Eastern dining, encouraging sharing and conversation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this dip is sure to impress. It’s also naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
In summary, Baba Ganoush is more than just a dip; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions. Enjoy it fresh, experiment with your variations, and relish the delightful world of Middle Eastern cuisine!
