Eggplant Appetizer(Baba Ghannuj)
Creamy and smoky eggplant dip with tahini, lemon, and garlic, perfect for appetizers or snacks, appealing to those who enjoy bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Wash and remove stem of eggplant. Pierce with a fork about 5 times.
- Place the eggplant in a baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until tender.
- Remove from oven and run under cold water to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a smokier flavor, consider charring the eggplant over an open flame before baking. If tahini is unavailable, you can use sunflower seed butter as a substitute. Be careful not to over-bake the eggplant, as it can become too mushy. For added depth, try incorporating roasted garlic or a splash of cumin into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Baba Ghannuj with warm pita bread, fresh vegetable sticks, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter. It pairs beautifully with Garlic-Sauted Tomatoes and Artichoke And Romaine Salad for a delightful appetizer spread. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley for an attractive presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Baba Ghannuj in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain creaminess. It can also be enjoyed cold as a spread.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Appetizer(Baba Ghannuj) contains roughly 305 calories, with 6g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 499mg per serving (22% 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 Ghannuj ahead of time?
Yes, Baba Ghannuj can be prepared a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste. Just give it a good stir before serving, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
What can I serve with Baba Ghannuj?
Baba Ghannuj is versatile and can be served with pita chips, fresh vegetables like cucumber and bell peppers, or as a spread on sandwiches. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Mediterranean Couscous Salad or Stuffed Yellow Squash With Spinach.
How can I make Baba Ghannuj spicier?
To add heat to your Baba Ghannuj, consider blending in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce. You can also serve it alongside sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for those who prefer extra spiciness.
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).