Classic Baba Ganoush

Classic Baba Ganoush

Classic Baba Ganoush is a smooth, smoky, and creamy Middle Eastern dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon, and garlic. It’s light yet full of flavor — the perfect appetizer or snack to enjoy with pita bread, fresh veggies, or as a side to grilled meats. With its luscious texture and subtle smoky notes, this traditional recipe is both healthy and irresistible.

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🍆Baba Ganoush Ingredients

  • 2 medium eggplants (about 2 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for flavor)
  • Fresh parsley and paprika, for garnish
Classic Baba Ganoush
Classic Baba Ganoush

🍛 How To Make Baba Ganoush

  1. Roast the eggplants:
    Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Prick the eggplants several times with a fork and place on a baking sheet lined with foil. Roast for 35–40 minutes, turning once, until the skins are charred and the insides are soft.
    Tip: For a smokier flavor, grill the eggplants directly over a gas flame or on a barbecue.
  2. Cool and scoop:
    Let the roasted eggplants cool slightly. Cut in half and scoop out the soft flesh, discarding the skins.
  3. Drain excess liquid:
    Place the eggplant flesh in a colander for about 10 minutes to remove any bitter liquid.
  4. Blend or mash:
    In a food processor (or bowl with a fork), combine eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and cumin. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting salt and lemon juice to taste.
  5. Serve:
    Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of paprika. Serve at room temperature with pita or fresh vegetables.

💭 Recipe Tips

  • Roast or grill: Grilling gives the most authentic smoky flavor.
  • Use fresh tahini: It should be smooth and pourable for the best texture.
  • Balance the flavors: Adjust lemon juice, garlic, and salt to your liking.
  • For extra creaminess: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
  • Make ahead: Baba ganoush tastes even better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.

🥪 What To Serve With Baba Ganoush?

Serve with warm pita bread, pita chips, or fresh veggies like cucumber, carrots and bell peppers. It’s also great as a spread for sandwiches, wraps or alongside Mediterranean dishes like falafel, hummus or grilled chicken.

🎚 How To Store Leftovers Baba Ganoush?

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. Drizzle with olive oil before serving again.
  • Freeze: Not recommended freezing changes the texture.

FAQs

Is baba ganoush the same as hummus?

Not quite baba ganoush is made with roasted eggplant, while hummus is made with chickpeas. Both use tahini and lemon for a creamy texture.

Can I make baba ganoush without tahini?

Yes, but it won’t be as creamy substitute with Greek yogurt or nut butter for a different flavor.

Can I grill the eggplants instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a deep smoky flavor that’s traditional and delicious.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or roasted jalapeño for heat.

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📊 Baba Ganoush Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: ¼ cup

  • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 140mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 2g

Classic Baba Ganoush

Recipe by Mohamed ShiliCourse: Side Dishes, Dinner, LunchCuisine: American
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

110

kcal

This Classic Baba Ganoush is a creamy, smoky roasted eggplant dip with tahini, garlic, and lemon. A simple, authentic Middle Eastern recipe perfect for snacking or sharing.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium eggplants (about 2 pounds total)

  • 3 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt, to taste

  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for flavor)

  • Fresh parsley and paprika, for garnish

Directions

  • Roast or grill eggplants until soft and smoky.
  • Scoop and drain the flesh.
  • Blend with tahini, garlic, lemon, and olive oil.
  • Garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

  • Roast or grill: Grilling gives the most authentic smoky flavor.
    Use fresh tahini: It should be smooth and pourable for the best texture.
    Balance the flavors: Adjust lemon juice, garlic, and salt to your liking.
    For extra creaminess: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
    Make ahead: Baba ganoush tastes even better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.

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