- View
Brief Overview
Baba Ghanoush is a classic Lebanese dish that epitomizes the beauty of simplicity in Mediterranean cuisine. This creamy eggplant dip is beloved not only in Lebanon but across the Middle East and beyond.
Known for its rich, smoky flavour and smooth texture, Baba Ghanoush is a staple in mezze spreads, where it pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a complement to grilled meats. Its appeal lies in the way it transforms humble ingredients into a dish that’s both comforting and full of character.
What Is Baba Ghanoush?
Baba Ghanoush is a dip made primarily from roasted or grilled eggplant, which is then mashed and blended with tahini (a sesame seed paste), olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and various seasonings. The eggplant is typically charred over an open flame or grilled to achieve a deep, smoky flavor, which is the hallmark of this dish.
Once prepared, Baba Ghanoush is usually served at room temperature, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika or parsley.
Ingredients and Taste
The core ingredients of Baba Ghanoush are straightforward but come together to create a complex flavour profile. The star of the dish is the eggplant, which, when roasted or grilled, takes on a smoky, slightly sweet flavour.
Tahini adds a nutty, creamy richness, while lemon juice brings a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the eggplant and tahini. Garlic provides a pungent kick, and olive oil adds a silky texture and a touch of fruitiness.
The result is a dip that’s both rich and refreshing, with the smokiness of the eggplant being the most dominant note. The tahini and garlic lend a subtle earthiness, while the lemon juice keeps the flavours lively and balanced.
The smooth, creamy texture makes Baba Ghanoush incredibly versatile, whether you’re dipping vegetables, spreading it on bread, or using it as a side to main dishes.
A Taste of History
Baba Ghanoush has its roots deep in the culinary traditions of the Levant, a region that includes Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine. The dish’s name is derived from the Arabic words “baba,” meaning father, and “ghanoush,” which suggests a spoiled or pampered nature.
The name’s origin story is somewhat folkloric, with one tale suggesting it was created by a loving daughter for her elderly, toothless father, who could only eat soft foods.
Historically, eggplants have been a central ingredient in Middle Eastern cooking for centuries, and their versatility has led to a wide range of dishes across different cultures.
Baba Ghanoush, in particular, became a popular mezze dish due to its simplicity and the way it showcases the flavours of the region. Today, it’s enjoyed worldwide, often found alongside hummus and other dips in Mediterranean restaurants.
Baba Ghanoush (Eggplant Dip) Recipe
Print
Baba Ghanoush is a classic Lebanese dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. This creamy and smoky flavoured dish is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, often enjoyed with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Fresh parsley and pomegranate seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the eggplants several times with a fork to allow steam to escape. Place the eggplants on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally until they are soft and the skin is charred.
- Once the eggplants are roasted, allow them to cool slightly. Then, peel off the skin, and scoop the flesh into a large bowl. Discard the skins.
- Mash the eggplant flesh with a fork or potato masher until it reaches your desired consistency, smooth or slightly chunky.
- Add the tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to the mashed eggplant. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the mixture with salt to taste. For a more complex flavour, add a pinch of ground cumin.
- Continue to mix until the Baba Ghanoush is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, lemon juice, or tahini, as desired.
- Transfer the Baba Ghanoush to a serving dish. Drizzle with extra olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley and pomegranate seeds for added colour and flavour.
- Serve the Baba Ghanoush with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter. Enjoy this authentic and flavourful Lebanese dish as a delicious appetizer or side.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1 Amount Per Serving: Calories: 288Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 155mgCarbohydrates: 46gFiber: 12gSugar: 21gProtein: 6gThis data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix. This is a general estimate provided for informational purposes only.
