Description
This authentic Lebanese Baba Ganoush recipe features perfectly roasted eggplants blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to create a creamy, smoky dip. Garnished with pomegranate seeds for a burst of freshness and served with pita bread or crunchy veggies, it’s a delicious and healthy appetizer that captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants (about 500g)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
Optional Garnish
- Pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Eggplants: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and make light scores on the flesh. Drizzle olive oil over the cut sides and sprinkle with salt. Place the eggplant halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast Eggplants: Roast the eggplants in the oven for 30-40 minutes until the flesh is tender and caramelized on top. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly so they are easier to handle.
- Scoop and Blend: Scoop out the softened eggplant flesh into a mixing bowl. Add the tahini, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt to taste. Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or food processor, ensuring a creamy texture.
- Assemble and Garnish: Transfer the Baba Ganoush to a serving bowl. Drizzle with additional olive oil for richness and garnish with pomegranate seeds or fresh herbs if desired to add a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the Baba Ganoush with warm pita bread or crunchy vegetables like cucumber, carrot sticks, or bell peppers for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Roasting the eggplants until caramelized is key to achieving the signature smoky flavor of Baba Ganoush.
- For a smokier taste, you can char the eggplants directly on a gas flame before roasting, if available.
- Adjust garlic and lemon juice according to your taste preference for stronger or milder flavors.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- This dip pairs well with fresh pita bread, crackers, or vegetable crudités.
