Baba Ghanouj Ii
Creamy Baba Ghanouj with smoky roasted eggplant, tahineh, garlic, and fresh herbs offers a flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grill the eggplant on top of the stove on low heat for 15 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 45-60 minutes until soft.
- Peel and wash the grilled eggplant.
- Mash the eggplant with a fork.
- In a blender, combine cumin, lemon juice, salt, green chili, 3 Tbsp. olive oil, tahineh, garlic, parsley, and water.
- Blend until smooth.
- Mix the mashed eggplant with the blended mixture thoroughly.
Tips & Substitutions
When grilling the eggplant, ensure it is fully soft to achieve the best texture. If fresh parsley isn't available, you can substitute with cilantro or omit it for a simpler flavor. For a smokier taste, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika. This Baba Ghanouj pairs well with pita bread or vegetable sticks, making it a perfect dip for Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Baba Ghanouj as a dip with warm pita bread, fresh vegetable sticks, or on a mezze platter alongside dishes like Low-Fat Hummus. It also makes a delightful spread for sandwiches or wraps. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the Baba Ghanouj in a microwave or serve cold, as the flavors continue to develop over time. Stir well before serving to restore its creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baba Ghanouj Ii contains roughly 231 calories, with 12g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (161% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), and potassium (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1947mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Baba Ghanouj ahead of time?
Yes, Baba Ghanouj can be made a day in advance. Storing it in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the taste. Just give it a good stir before serving to ensure a creamy consistency.
What can I use instead of tahineh?
If you don't have tahineh, you can substitute it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. While the flavor will change slightly, these alternatives will still provide creaminess to the dip.
Is Baba Ghanouj suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, Baba Ghanouj is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly. It is made with eggplant, tahineh, and other plant-based ingredients, making it a healthy choice for anyone following a vegan diet.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).