Smoky Roasted Eggplant and Tahini Baba Ghanoush 🍆✨

 New Recipe

Smoky Roasted Eggplant and Tahini Baba Ghanoush 🍆✨

Ingredients:

• For the Baba Ghanoush:

  • 2 medium eggplants (about 1 lb or 450 g)
  • 2 tbsp tahini
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for roasting)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For Garnish (optional):

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Olive oil drizzle
  • Pomegranate seeds (optional for a fresh burst)
  • Smoked paprika or za'atar

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Instructions:

1. Roast the eggplants:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Pierce the eggplants several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and roast for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft.
   • Alternatively, you can grill the eggplants over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and the flesh is tender.

2. Prepare the Baba Ghanoush:

   • Allow the roasted eggplants to cool slightly. Cut them in half and scoop out the soft flesh, discarding the skin.
   • Transfer the eggplant flesh to a food processor or blender. Add tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.

3. Serve and garnish:

   • Transfer the baba ghanoush to a serving bowl. Drizzle with extra olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley, pomegranate seeds, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika or za'atar for an added flavor boost.

4. Enjoy:

   • Serve with warm pita bread, vegetable crudités, or as part of a mezze platter.

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Optional Variations:

• Spicy Baba Ghanoush: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced fresh chili for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused: Blend in some fresh basil or cilantro for a unique twist on the flavor.
• Roasted Garlic: Add roasted garlic cloves for a more mellow, sweet garlic flavor.
• Smoked Flavor: Use smoked tahini or a few drops of liquid smoke for an intensified smoky profile.