Baba Ghanoush (Roasted Eggplant Learn how to make authentic Baba Ghanoush – a rich and smoky Mediterranean roasted eggplant dip, perfect with pita, veggies, or as a sandwich spread.

📝 Ingredients:

1. 2 large eggplants

2. 2–3 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)

3. 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

4. 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)

5. 1–2 garlic cloves (minced)

6. Salt to taste

7. Smoked paprika or ground cumin (optional, for flavor)

8. Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

9. Pomegranate seeds (optional garnish)

10. Pita bread or fresh vegetables (for serving)

 Instructions:

1. Roast the Eggplants:
   Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Prick the eggplants a few times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 35–40 minutes until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft.
   Tip: For a smoky flavor, grill the eggplants over an open flame or on a BBQ.

2. Cool & Peel:
   Let the roasted eggplants cool slightly. Peel off the charred skin and discard. Scoop the soft flesh into a mixing bowl.

3. Drain Excess Water:
   Place the eggplant flesh in a colander and let it drain for 10–15 minutes to remove any excess moisture. This step helps make the dip creamy, not watery.

4. Mix the Dip:
   In a bowl, combine the eggplant with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Mix well using a fork or a food processor, depending on your texture preference.

5. Taste & Adjust:
   Adjust salt, lemon, or tahini as needed. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin if desired.

6. Serve:
   Transfer to a serving dish. Drizzle with olive oil, garnish with parsley and optional pomegranate seeds.

💡 Cooking Tips:

• For Extra Smokiness: Grill eggplants over charcoal or a gas flame instead of using the oven.

• Texture Control: Mash by hand for a chunky texture, or use a food processor for smooth consistency.

• Tahini Substitute: If unavailable, use Greek yogurt or a spoon of olive oil, but traditional tahini is best.

🥗 Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with warm pita bread, pita chips, or fresh veggies like cucumber, carrots, or bell peppers.

• Use as a spread in wraps or sandwiches.

• Add to mezze platters with hummus, olives, and tabbouleh.

 Nutrition Facts (Per 2 tbsp serving – approx):

• Calories: 70

• Protein: 1.5g

• Carbs: 4g

• Fat: 5.5g

• Fiber: 1.5g

• Sugar: 1g