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Best Smoky Baba Ganoush Eggplant Dip
Amanda Peterson

Best Smoky Baba Ganoush Eggplant Dip

A deeply smoky, creamy, and authentic baba ganoush made with fire-roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon, and garlic. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for mezze platters.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dip, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large globe eggplants (about 2–2.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons tahini, well-stirred
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced to a paste
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, pomegranate seeds, sumac, or toasted pine nuts for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Gas stovetop, grill, or broiler for charring eggplants
  • Tongs for turning eggplants
  • Mixing Bowl for steaming and mixing
  • Plastic wrap for steaming
  • Food processor or fork for blending
  • Colander for draining eggplant

Method
 

  1. Char the eggplants: Poke several holes in each eggplant with a fork. Place directly over a gas flame, on a hot grill, or under a broiler. Turn frequently with tongs until the skin is completely blackened and blistered and the flesh feels soft and collapsed, about 15–20 minutes.
  2. Steam and drain: Transfer the charred eggplants to a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Let steam for 15 minutes. Once cool enough to handle, peel away the skin. Gently squeeze the flesh to remove excess bitter liquid. Place the flesh in a colander and let drain for 10 minutes.
  3. Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the drained eggplant flesh, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and cumin (if using). Mash with a fork for a rustic texture or pulse in a food processor for a smoother dip.
  4. Emulsify: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while stirring or pulsing until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon, tahini, or salt as desired.
  5. Rest and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with extra olive oil, and garnish with parsley, pomegranate seeds, sumac, or toasted pine nuts. Serve with warm pita or fresh vegetables.

Notes

For maximum smokiness, char the eggplants directly over a gas flame or grill. Do not rinse the peeled eggplant—this washes away the smoky flavor. Drain the roasted eggplant thoroughly to remove bitterness. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent discoloration.