Eggplant Puree(Baba Ghanouge)
Creamy, smoky eggplant puree with tahini and garlic, perfect as a dip or spread, ideal for gatherings and enjoyed with pita bread and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pierce the eggplants at different points.
- Broil the eggplants for 30 minutes, turning occasionally until the surface is burned and cracked.
- Remove the skin from the eggplants and drain the pulp.
- Combine the eggplant pulp, tahini, crushed garlic, juice of 3 lemons, salt, and olive oil in a blender.
- Puree until smooth.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve with fresh pita bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, try grilling the eggplants instead of broiling them. If you're short on tahini, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a creamier texture. Add a pinch of cumin for an extra layer of flavor, and feel free to adjust the lemon juice according to your taste. This dish is a staple in Mediterranean recipes, enhancing its versatility.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the eggplant puree with warm, fresh pita bread for dipping, or use it as a spread for sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Spinach Filled Pitas and can be complemented with a side of Yogurt Cucumber Sauce for a refreshing contrast. Consider adding a sprinkle of paprika or sumac for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the puree in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also serve it cold as a dip, which makes it a great option for meal prep or picnics.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Puree(Baba Ghanouge) contains roughly 414 calories, with 10g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 756mg per serving (33% 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 eggplant puree ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the eggplant puree a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the taste. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What other dishes can I serve with baba ghanouge?
Baba ghanouge pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, falafel, or as part of a mezze platter with olives, roasted vegetables, and cheeses. It also complements Mediterranean recipes wonderfully.
How can I adjust the consistency of the puree?
If your puree is too thick, you can easily adjust the consistency by adding a little olive oil or water while blending until you reach your desired smoothness. Start with a tablespoon at a time to avoid making it too runny.
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).