Baba Ghanoush is a delicious eggplant-based dip that is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. At 997 calories per recipe, it is both flavorful and filling.

In addition to being a tasty snack or side dish, Baba Ghanoush is also a healthy choice. It is low in fat and calories and high in fiber and antioxidants.

In this article, we'll be exploring everything you need to know to make the perfect Baba Ghanoush, including ingredients, preparation and cooking times, nutritional facts, tips for serving, variations you can try, and its history and origin.

Ingredients Used

To make Baba Ghanoush, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preparation Time

The prep time for Baba Ghanoush is relatively short. Here are the steps you need to follow to make it:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Pierce the eggplant a few times with a fork, then place it on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft and tender.
3. Remove the eggplant from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then slice it open lengthwise and scoop out the flesh with a spoon, discarding the skin.
4. In a food processor, combine the eggplant flesh, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Pulse until smooth and creamy.
5. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (optional) and serve.

Cooking Time

The total cooking time for Baba Ghanoush is about 25-30 minutes, including preparation time.

Nutritional Facts

Here are the nutritional facts for one serving (about 1/4 cup) of Baba Ghanoush:

• calories: 124
• Total fat: 11g
• Protein: 2g
• Total Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 3g

Taste and Texture

Baba Ghanoush has a creamy, silky texture and a smoky, slightly sweet flavor. The tahini and lemon juice add a tangy, nutty taste that complements the eggplant. The dish can be served as a dip with pita bread or vegetables, as a spread on sandwiches, or as a side dish to grilled meats or fish.

Tips for Serving

Here are some tips to help you serve Baba Ghanoush like a pro:

• When roasting the eggplant, make sure to pierce it a few times with a fork to prevent it from bursting in the oven.
• To give the Baba Ghanoush a smoother texture, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
• For added flavor, you can garnish the dish with chopped parsley, pomegranate seeds, or chopped tomatoes.

Variations You Can Try

Baba Ghanoush is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Spicy Baba Ghanoush: Add some chopped fresh chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Roasted Red Pepper Baba Ghanoush: Puree roasted red bell peppers with the eggplant for a colorful twist on the classic recipe.
• Chunky Baba Ghanoush: Instead of pulsing the mixture until smooth, leave it slightly chunky for a more rustic texture.

Health Benefits

Baba Ghanoush is a healthy dish that is packed with nutrients. Here are some of its health benefits:

• Antioxidants: Eggplants are rich in antioxidants that help protect against cellular damage and prevent chronic diseases.
• Fiber: Baba Ghanoush is high in fiber, which can help regulate digestion and lower cholesterol levels.
• Low in calories: With only 124 calories per serving, Baba Ghanoush is a great snack or side dish for anyone watching their weight.

History and Origin

Baba Ghanoush is believed to have originated in the Levant region of the Middle East, which includes modern-day Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Israel. The dish is similar to another popular Middle Eastern dip, hummus, but uses roasted eggplant instead of chickpeas as the base. Over time, Baba Ghanoush has become a popular dish in many other parts of the world and is now enjoyed by millions of people around the globe.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Baba Ghanoush:

• What is the difference between Baba Ghanoush and hummus? Baba Ghanoush uses roasted eggplant as the base, while hummus uses chickpeas.
• What does Baba Ghanoush taste like? Baba Ghanoush has a smoky, slightly sweet flavor with a tangy, nutty undertone.
• Is Baba Ghanoush healthy? Yes, Baba Ghanoush is a healthy dish that is low in fat and calories and high in fiber and nutrients.