Baba Ghanoush is a signature Middle Eastern grilled eggplant puree enriched with tahini and seasoned with lemon juice and lots of garlic. The dish has a smoky, pungent flavor, and is extremely versatile as an appetizer.
Pierce a few holes into the skin of the eggplant (to avoid explosion) using a fork. Cut eggplants lengthwise. Brush a thin coat of olive oil on all sides. Put the eggplant pieces together (to their original shape). Cover the eggplant pieces completely with aluminium foil. Roast your eggplant in a 375 degree F oven for about 30 minutes. Remove eggplant from the oven and let cool.
Once the eggplant is cool enough to handle, peel away the skin and discard (or better yet, compost).
In a food processor or high speed blender, combine salt, garlic, lemon juice, tahini and roasted cumin seeds and pulse to combine. Add the eggplant flesh. Adjust the flavor with more tahini or lemon juice if you prefer. If it's bitter, a little bit of sugar or honey will help.
Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and spread with the back of a spoon to form a shallow well. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and sprinkle with the parsley. Place the olives around the sides. Serve at room temperature.
Notes
Baba ghanoush is healthy, gluten free, vegan, all natural and so delicious. Top with toasted pine nuts in addition to olive oil, chopped parsley, and (preferably kalamata) olives. Pair with crunchy veggies, pita bread, crackers or chips for a mouth-watering appetizer that your guests will love. Or smear between a sandwich like a chutney for your kids' lunchbox.*Use organic ingredients wherever possible