Authentic Lebanese Baba Ghanoush (Roasted Eggplant Dip)
Flavorful Lebanese Baba Ghanoush: A Delicious Roasted Eggplant Dip Recipe
Utilize those abundant eggplants harvested from your weekend garden to create a delightful Baba Ghanoush, a classic dip from Lebanon, right in your own kitchen! This dish, humorously named ‘Baba Ghanoush’ meaning ‘spoiled father’ in Arabic, is so irresistibly delicious that it’s said to turn anyone into one. Often called ‘the caviar of the poor,’ it boasts a unique and profound flavor that belies its simple eggplant base. You’ll be amazed by the incredible taste derived from cooked eggplant! Its creamy texture and smoky flavor are reminiscent of hummus, making it a familiar yet exciting culinary experience. With just three eggplants, you can make enough Baba Ghanoush to generously spread on two slices of bread, making it a perfect way to enjoy the seasonal bounty. If you have an abundance of eggplants, this recipe is a must-try!
Main Ingredients- 3 fresh eggplants
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Seasoning & Garnish- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 pinch fine salt
- 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper
- 1 pinch paprika (optional)
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 pinch fine salt
- 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper
- 1 pinch paprika (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Wash the eggplants thoroughly. Place them on a grill rack or under an oven broiler, and roast until the skin is slightly charred and blackened. This process imparts a lovely smoky flavor and removes any raw taste. Be mindful of the heat to avoid burning too much.
Step 2
Once the eggplants are well-roasted, slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the soft flesh using a spoon, discarding the skin and seeds. The soft pulp is what we need for the dip.
Step 3
In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted eggplant flesh, minced garlic, toasted sesame seeds, lemon juice (or vinegar), salt, and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy. For a touch of color and mild spice, you can add a pinch of paprika and mix well with a spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt if necessary.
Step 4
Transfer the prepared Baba Ghanoush to a serving bowl. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. Alternatively, you can mix some olive oil into the dip before serving for an even richer flavor. Serve with fresh pita bread, crusty bread, or vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer or snack.
