Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Wash and dry the eggplants. Prick each eggplant a few times with a fork.
- Roast the eggplants whole on the prepared tray for 30–35 minutes, turning halfway, until the skin is charred and the inside is very soft.
- Let the eggplants cool enough to handle. Split them lengthwise and scoop out the flesh into a colander. Let it drain for 10 minutes to remove excess liquid.
- Transfer the drained eggplant flesh to a bowl. Mash with a fork or use a food processor for a smoother texture.
- Add the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, crushed garlic, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Transfer the baba ganoush to a serving bowl. Drizzle olive oil on top, sprinkle smoked paprika, and finish with fresh parsley.
- Serve with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or as a spread. Enjoy!
Notes
Baba ganoush isn’t just a classic Middle Eastern dip—it's also an incredibly versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer. Whether you’re serving it at a casual gathering, as part of a mezze platter, or using it as a sandwich spread, baba ganoush brings a smoky, creamy touch that instantly elevates any meal.
Secrets for a genuinely delicious baba ganoush
For maximum flavor, roast your eggplants until the skin is deeply charred. This step develops that signature smokiness. Don’t be afraid to let the skins blacken; it’s the secret to authentic taste. If you don’t have tahini, try using Greek yogurt for a lighter dip, or swap in sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Prefer a more garlicky dip? Add an extra clove, but for a milder result, roast the garlic alongside the eggplant first.Mastering your technique
- Drain the eggplant flesh thoroughly after roasting. Excess moisture can make your dip watery. A quick ten minutes in a colander does the trick.
- If you like a chunky texture, mash by hand. For a silky finish, use a food processor, but pulse gently to avoid over-blending.
- Always taste and adjust lemon juice, salt, and tahini to suit your preferences. These ingredients can vary in intensity.
