Baba ghanoush is a Levantine appetizer or dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, and various seasonings. It is typically served with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers. This delicious and versatile dish can be made in many ways, each with its unique flavor and texture.
In this article, we will explore three distinct Baba ghanoush recipes that cater to different preferences and dietary needs. The first recipe is a classic Baba ghanoush made with roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin. The second recipe is a spicy Baba ghanoush that adds a kick of heat with the inclusion of chili powder and cayenne pepper. Lastly, the third recipe is a vegan Baba ghanoush that omits tahini and uses cashew butter as a creamy and flavorful substitute.
Whether you are a seasoned Baba ghanoush enthusiast or new to this delightful dish, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating a delicious and authentic Baba ghanoush that will impress your family and friends. With detailed instructions and helpful tips, you will be able to recreate this Middle Eastern delicacy in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, grab your apron, fire up the oven, and let's embark on a culinary journey to explore the world of Baba ghanoush.
BABA GANOUSH RECIPE
Here is how to make the best baba ganoush, the smoky, rich, and extra creamy eggplant dip, packed with flavor thanks to tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Grilling the eggplant over open flame will give you the deepest flavor. And if you have the time, allow the dip to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour. It will thicken and the flavors will meld. Be sure to watch the video and read the notes for additional tips!
Provided by Suzy Karadsheh
Time 35m
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- First, smoke or grill the eggplant. Turn one gas burner on medium-high. Place the eggplant directly over the flame. Using a pair of tongs, turn the eggplant every 5 minutes or so until it is tender and the skin is charred and crispy on all sides (20 minutes.) The eggplant should deflate and become super tender. supposed to. If you don't have a gas burner you can use a grill. You can also roast the eggplant in the oven (see notes).
- Remove the eggplant from the heat and transfer it to a large colander over a bowl. Allow it to sit and drain for a few minutes until fully cooled and all excess water has been drained (it helps if you open the eggplant up a bit and push on it with a knife or a spoon to help it release its juices).
- Once the eggplant is cool enough to touch, peel the charred crispy skin off (it should come right off). Discard the skin and the stem (don't worry if a few bits of the skin remain, that is just added flavor).
- Transfer the cooked and fully drained eggplant to a bowl. Use a fork to break it down into smaller pieces. Add the tahini paste, garlic, lemon juice, Greek yogurt (if using) salt, pepper, sumac, Aleppo pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Mix gently with a wooden spoon or a fork until well-combined.
- Cover the baba ganoush and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour.
- To serve, transfer the baba ganoush to a rimmed serving dish or a bowl. Top with a good drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and toasted pine nuts, if you like. Serve with pita wedges or pita chips and veggies of your choice!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 86.6 kcal, Sodium 204.4 mg, Fat 5.6 g, SaturatedFat 0.8 g, Carbohydrate 8.6 g, Fiber 3.3 g, Protein 3 g, Cholesterol 0.1 mg, UnsaturatedFat 2 g, ServingSize 1 serving
TRADITIONAL BABA GHANOUSH
A traditional recipe for this eggplant dip. It consists of baked eggplant with garlic, lemon juice, and tahini sauce. Dip into this with pita bread and you have yourself a delicious-and-light appetizer.
Provided by IMANKAY
Categories Appetizers and Snacks Dips and Spreads Recipes
Time 50m
Yield 3
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Arrange oven racks so you have one low and one high in the oven.
- Cut a shallow slit along the side of the eggplant and place into a baking dish.
- Roast in preheated oven on the lower rack until the eggplant is completely shrunken and soft, about 40 minutes. Move dish to higher rack and continue baking until the skin is charred, about 5 minutes more. Let eggplant cool until cool enough to handle.
- Peel and discard skin from eggplant. Put eggplant into a bowl; add tahini, garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and salt. Stir until ingredients are evenly mixed. Drizzle olive oil over the baba ghanoush and garnish with parsley.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 96.5 calories, Carbohydrate 5.3 g, Fat 8.7 g, Fiber 1.9 g, Protein 1.9 g, SaturatedFat 1.2 g, Sodium 11.6 mg, Sugar 0.2 g
BABA GHANOUJ (ROAST EGGPLANT PUREE)
This recipe is from sallybernstein.com. I had this for the first time a few months ago and have been looking for a recipe.
Provided by Lavender Lynn
Categories Vegetable
Time 1h40m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Split the eggplant lengthwise; brush them with 1 T of the olive oil. Place the eggplant cut-side down on a sheetpan and roast at 450°F for 20-30 minutes or until the eggplant is very soft. Allow the eggplant to cool to room temperature.
- When they are at room temperature scoop out the flesh of the eggplant with a spoon and discard the skins. Place the flesh of the eggplant in a colander to drain for about 20 minutes.
- Place the drained eggplant in a food processor along with the lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, cayenne pepper, ground cumin and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Puree until the mixture is smooth and thick. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.
MIDDLE EASTERN FIRE-ROASTED EGGPLANT DIP: BABAGANOUSH
Provided by Aarti Sequeira
Time 40m
Yield 4 cups
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- There are 2 ways to cook the eggplants. The first way, on the stovetop, is my favorite because it yields a much smokier-flavored babaganoush.
- For the stovetop method: Turn 2 burners up full-throttle. Place 1 eggplant on each burner and, using a pair of tongs, turn every 5 minutes or so, until the entire surface of eggplant is charred and crispy, about 15 minutes. Don't worry if the eggplant deflates a little. Remove from the burner and place on a plate to cool.
- For the oven method: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Prick the eggplants all over with a fork (this keeps the eggplant from exploding in the oven, so don't skip this step). Place on a baking sheet and roast until softened, about 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
- Regardless of the cooking method you choose, once the eggplant is cool enough to touch with your hands, carefully peel the charred skin off the eggplant. Discard the skin. Move the flesh onto your chopping board, slice off the stem and discard. Using your knife, mince the flesh until almost smooth. Scoop into a bowl.
- Add the lemon juice, tahini, parsley, and a little salt and pepper. Whisk together and taste for seasoning. Feel free to add more lemon juice, more salt and pepper... it will vary depending on the size of your eggplant, and how you like your 'ganoush! Serve with pita chips.
Tips:
- Choose the right eggplant: Look for eggplants that are firm and heavy for their size, with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid eggplants that are soft, wrinkled, or have brown spots.
- Roast the eggplant properly: Roasting the eggplant is the key to getting a smoky, flavorful baba ghanouj. Make sure to roast the eggplant until it is very soft and the skin is charred.
- Use a food processor or blender: A food processor or blender is the best way to get a smooth and creamy baba ghanouj. If you don't have a food processor or blender, you can mash the eggplant by hand, but it will take longer and the texture will not be as smooth.
- Season to taste: Baba ghanouj is a versatile dish that can be seasoned to your liking. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and spices to suit your taste.
- Serve with your favorite accompaniments: Baba ghanouj is traditionally served with pita bread, but it can also be served with vegetables, crackers, or chips. It is also a great addition to a mezze platter.
Conclusion:
Baba ghanouj is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste. Whether you are serving it as an appetizer, a main course, or a snack, baba ghanouj is sure to be a hit.
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