Moutabel, also known as baba ghanoush or eggplant dip, is a Levantine dish made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and various spices. It is a popular appetizer or spread in the Middle East, Mediterranean region, and beyond. This versatile dish can be served as a dip with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps. Its smoky, creamy, and tangy flavor makes it a delightful addition to any mezze platter or buffet.
In this article, we present a collection of moutabel recipes that cater to different tastes and preferences. From the classic Lebanese moutabel to a spicy Turkish version and a unique Moroccan variation, these recipes offer a range of flavors and textures to satisfy any palate. Each recipe provides detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure a successful and delicious outcome.
The classic Lebanese moutabel recipe forms the foundation of this collection. This traditional version uses roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin to create a smooth and flavorful dip. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the Turkish moutabel recipe incorporates spicy peppers and paprika, adding a fiery kick to the dish. If you prefer a more aromatic and herbaceous flavor profile, the Moroccan moutabel recipe infuses the dip with fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley, along with a hint of mint.
Additionally, this article includes a vegan moutabel recipe for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. This plant-based version uses cashew butter instead of tahini, maintaining the creamy texture and rich flavor of the classic moutabel. No matter your dietary preferences, there's a moutabel recipe in this collection that will tantalize your taste buds.
With its smoky, creamy, and tangy flavor, moutabel is a culinary delight that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you're hosting a party, preparing a delightful appetizer, or simply looking for a flavorful spread to enjoy at home, these moutabel recipes offer a range of options to suit your needs. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your kitchen, and embark on a culinary journey to explore the delectable world of moutabel.
MOUTABEL
Moutabel is a delicious and spicy eggplant (aubergine) dip originating in the Middle East. It is best eaten with fresh, hot pita bread.
Provided by KCOGDEN
Categories Appetizers and Snacks Spicy
Time 50m
Yield 64
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a medium baking sheet.
- Place eggplants on the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven 30 minutes, or until soft and seared.
- In a food processor, grind together garlic, basil and green chile peppers.
- Scoop eggplant from skins and mix with garlic mixture in the food processor.
- Transfer the mixture to a medium serving dish. With a fork, mash in tahini, lemon juice and salt. Garnish with mint and olive oil.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 15.5 calories, Carbohydrate 2.4 g, Fat 0.6 g, Fiber 1.3 g, Protein 0.6 g, SaturatedFat 0.1 g, Sodium 38.2 mg, Sugar 0.9 g
MOUTABEL
Yield 4 people
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- INGREDIENTS 2 eggplants ¹⁄³ cup tahini (sesame paste) 85g plain yoghurt Salt, to taste 2 tbsp lemon juice 1½ tbsp pomegranate paste (optional) TO GARNISH Paprika, sweet red peppers, parsley, pomegranate seeds or walnuts METHOD 1 Grill the eggplants or heat over an open flame so that the skin blackens and shrivels. Keep turning until the eggplants' skin is soft all over and a skewer can easily cut through the vegetables. As soon as this happens, take them off the flame and then place in a bowl filled with cold water. 2 Peel the eggplants. Discard the burnt skin and put the pulp in a strainer to ensure that the excess water is removed. (If you have time, then leave the pulp overnight.) 3 Cut the eggplants into small pieces and then pound to a rough pulp. 4 As you add the other ingredients, make sure you incorporate them one by one into the mixture. First, add the tahini, then the yoghurt. 5 Now add the lemon juice and the salt to taste. 6 Place the mixture in a dish and smooth it out. Garnish with paprika, parsley leaves and wedges of sweet red pepper, pomegranate seeds and walnuts 7 Finish off with a dash of olive oil. Just like hummus, moutabel will keep for a couple of days in the fridge.
Tips for Making the Best Moutabel:
- Choose the ripest eggplants possible. This will ensure the smoothest and most flavorful dip.
- Roast the eggplants over an open flame or under a broiler. This will give them a smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients in the dip.
- Let the eggplants cool completely before handling them. This will prevent them from breaking apart.
- Use a food processor to puree the eggplants. This will give you the smoothest consistency.
- Add the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to the food processor and blend until smooth.
- Season the moutabel to taste with salt, pepper, and cumin.
- Serve the moutabel immediately or chill it for later.
Conclusion:
Moutabel is a delicious and versatile dip that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a side dish, or a spread. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. Whether you like it smoky, garlicky, or lemony, there is a moutabel recipe out there for you. So next time you are looking for a new and exciting dip to try, give moutabel a try. You won't be disappointed.
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