Baba Ganoush Recipe (Roasted Eggplant Middle Eastern Dip)
Baba Ganoush is a classic Middle Eastern dip that features roasted eggplant as its star ingredient. This creamy and smoky dip is flavored with garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and a hint of olive oil, making it the perfect accompaniment for pita bread, vegetable crudités, or as part of a mezze platter. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a snack, Baba Ganoush is a versatile and delicious dip that will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brinjal (Baingan / Eggplant) | 1 large |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 3 cloves |
| Lemon juice | 1 lemon |
| Tahini | 2 tablespoons |
| Parsley (finely chopped) | 3 sprigs |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | As needed |
| Red Chilli powder | To taste |
| Pita chips | For dipping |
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Servings
4
Cuisine
Mediterranean
Course
Side Dish
Diet
Vegetarian
Instructions
Roasting the Eggplant
There are two ways to roast the eggplant for this Baba Ganoush recipe: the oven method or the stovetop method. Both methods yield smoky, tender eggplant that forms the base of this dip. You can choose the method that best fits your preference.
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F).
- Prick the eggplant all over with a fork to prevent it from bursting while cooking.
- Place the eggplant on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the eggplant is soft, and the skin is slightly charred and crispy.
- Once done, remove the eggplant from the oven and allow it to cool down before handling.
Stovetop Method (Video Option):
- Place the eggplant directly over the flame on your stovetop, using a gas burner if possible. Use tongs to turn the eggplant every 5 minutes, ensuring all sides are evenly charred.
- After about 10 minutes, the skin of the eggplant will become crispy and blackened. To test for doneness, poke the eggplant with a knife. It should slide in easily, indicating that the eggplant is fully cooked.
- Once charred and tender, remove the eggplant from the heat and let it cool on a plate.
Preparing the Baba Ganoush
- Once the eggplant has cooled enough to handle, carefully peel off the charred skin. Discard the skin, as it has served its purpose in giving the eggplant its smoky flavor.
- Trim off the stem of the eggplant and discard it.
- Using a knife, mince the flesh of the eggplant until it becomes a smooth, slightly chunky mixture.
Mixing the Ingredients
- Transfer the minced eggplant into a mixing bowl.
- Add the finely chopped garlic, parsley, and lemon juice to the bowl.
- Stir in the tahini and mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Drizzle in some extra virgin olive oil for creaminess and a smooth texture.
- Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red chili powder to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.
Final Touch
- Transfer the prepared Baba Ganoush to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with additional finely chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with warm pita bread or crispy pita chips for dipping.
Baba Ganoush is best enjoyed as a dip or spread. It can also be paired with grilled meats, used as a topping for sandwiches, or added to salads. The smoky flavor and creamy texture make it a refreshing side dish or appetizer for any meal. Whether you serve it at a gathering or simply enjoy it on your own, this Middle Eastern dip is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Tips & Variations
- Smokiness Level: If you prefer a more intense smoky flavor, you can increase the charring time on the eggplant skin when using the stovetop method.
- Tahini Substitute: If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can replace it with plain Greek yogurt for a different texture and flavor, though it won’t be quite as creamy.
- Flavor Additions: For a tangier twist, try adding a bit of yogurt or a dash of vinegar to the mix. Some variations include adding roasted red peppers or even pomegranate seeds for a unique touch.
- Serving Suggestions: Baba Ganoush pairs wonderfully with warm flatbreads, fresh vegetable sticks like cucumber, carrot, and celery, or even as a side to grilled meats.
This Baba Ganoush recipe is a perfect example of Mediterranean cuisine, bringing together simple yet flavorful ingredients in a way that’s both healthy and satisfying. Enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or as part of a larger feast!
