Egypt • Africa • easy • 50 mins
Egypt Baba Ghanoush
Description
Baba Ghanoush is a traditional Egyptian dish made from roasted eggplant, blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and holds cultural significance as a popular appetizer or mezze served during gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prick the eggplants with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft.
- Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool. Once cool, peel off the skin and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.
- Add tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and cumin (if using) to the eggplant flesh.
- Mash the mixture with a fork or blend it in a food processor until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Transfer to a serving dish, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with pita bread or vegetables.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 120 per serving
Servings: 4
Dietary: dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian
⚠️ Allergens: sesame
Health Benefits
Baba Ghanoush is rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants from eggplants, which support digestive health and reduce inflammation. The tahini provides essential fatty acids and protein, while the garlic and lemon juice enhance immune function and detoxification. As a dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan dish, it is an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions, promoting overall wellness and cultural appreciation for Mediterranean flavors.
Cultural Significance
Baba Ghanoush is not only a beloved dish in Egypt but also reflects the agricultural abundance of the region, particularly the cultivation of eggplants. It is often enjoyed during family gatherings and is a symbol of hospitality.
Explore More Recipes
🌍 More Egypt Recipes – Discover authentic dishes from Egypt
🗺️ More Africa Cuisine – Explore recipes from across Africa
🥗 More dairy-free Recipes – Browse our dairy-free collection
👨🍳 Similar Difficulty Recipes – Find more easy recipes
🔍 Browse All Recipes – Search our complete collection of 1,000+ African and Caribbean recipes