Baba Ganoush – Smokey Eggplant Dip with Pomegranates

BBnush_650I feel like I am recovering or rather bouncing back from a mini-vacation. It has been a long break from work. After a while and I decided to ditch the idea of keeping up with blogging the thanksgiving table real time, in fact, I almost stayed away from social media altogether. Life can wait, the recipes that deserve their time on the blog will eventually shine through. Yes today I am back with Baba Ganoush. One of my hits this holiday. In fact, the idea of the meze bar which included my pineapple chutney, hummus and the Baba Ganoush was an amazing hit.

What is Baba Ganoush?

A Baba Ganoush or Baba Ganouj is a smoked eggplant dip of Middle Eastern descent. It has many variations and is typically a meshing of smoked eggplant, garlic, tahini and possibly parsley. Other garnishes, such as my addition of pomegranate seeds are optional. These can be used at the chef’s discretion.

Simple Variations

With an attempt to ensure some visual appeal, as well as keeping with the harvest theme. My simple recipe change is to use lightly toasted garlic. My son tends to find the raw crushed garlic too strong,

 

IMG_0472_blog

Story of the Recipe

I will also confess, my recipe comes to me from conversations with various people while tasting their more authentic offerings.

Although the Baba Ganoush is indeed in some ways similar to the Bengali smoked eggplant puree that we call Begun Pora. Except we use mustard oil and onions and of course a sharp smattering of green chilies. Considering, I was asked to make this yesterday again and looks like we polished off as many as seven medium sized eggplants. This variation is certain going to be one for the family series.

Print
Baba Ganoush – Smokey Eggplant Dip with Pomegranates

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: Serves 4 to 6

Baba Ganoush – Smokey Eggplant Dip with Pomegranates

A smokey eggplant dip, Baba Ganosh is a classic meze of Middle-Eastern origins.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium sized eggplants (about 2 pounds)
  • 11/2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
  • salt to taste
  • a few grinds of fresh black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of tahini or sesame paste.
  • 1 tablespoon minced parsley or cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons fresh pomegranate seeds
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. To prepare the eggplant, roast the eggplant over an open flame to completely char the outer skin. This is best done over a gas stove or an open grill. Use a pair of tongs to turn the eggplant so that is is cooked uniformly. Set aside to cool.
  2. In the meantime heat the oil and add the garlic and cook until it the garlic is golden brown and fragrant. Set aside.
  3. Carefully peel the eggplant, I find it easiest to peel some of the skin, making an opening and then scooping out the flesh.
  4. Place the scooped eggplant in a mixing bowl and mash the pulp. Add in the salt, pepper, tahini and mix in the garlic oil and stir well.
  5. Add in the parsley or cilantro, pomegranate seeds and the lemon juice if using. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
https://spicechronicles.com/baba-ganoush-smokey-eggplant-dip-pomegranates/

 

20 Comments

Leave a Comment

CommentLuv badge