From Jim Brickman Beautiful World Cookbook
Eggplant Dip – Baba Ghanouj Page 4
I think the best looking thing at the farm stand is eggplant. The rich purple color and glossy shine make it a stand out. But what it does to a recipe makes it even better. I guess that’s why, eggplant is a staple in recipes around the world.
I just found out that eggplant is actually a fruit – it has seeds! Every part of it is edible. It’s a great meat substitute when you’re cooking vegetarian or vegan dishes. Although its high in water and fairly low in nutrients, it really packs a punch in any dish you serve. I happen to love Eggplant Parmesan. My favorite restaurant serves the eggplant sliced very thin and layered like a casserole. Yum!
Eggplant can be the star of so many recipes from Parmesan to Ratatouille to Lasagna. I’m pretty sure I like them all. But a great appetizer or “in front of the TV” snack for me is a Baba Ghanouj Eggplant Dip. I dip veggies in it but you really get the full flavor effect with pita chips. You’ve got to try it!
I hope you enjoy this authentic Lebanese Baba Ghanouj from the Beautiful World cookbook. The book filled with wonderful All-American and International recipes submitted by my friends across the country and around the world..
– Jim
Baba Ghanouj starts with eggplant.
Baba Ghanouj Eggplant Dip
“Baba Ghanouj is a traditional appetizer at all our family gatherings. It is served as an appetizer along with pita bread. It can be purchased in specialty stores but it is always best when it is homemade. Try it! It just might become a tradition in your family.”
– Sherri Farris, Ohio
Ingredients
1 Medium Black Eggplant
2 Lemons, Squeezed
2 Cloves Garlic
2 T. Water
4 T. Tahini
Salt To Taste
(Tahini can be purchased
at any Middle Eastern store)
Instructions
- Broil or grill whole eggplant, turn frequently
- Run under cold water and remove skin.
- Mash eggplant using a food processor or a spoon.
- Smash garlic cloves and add to eggplant
- Add salt, tahini, lemon juice and water.
- Mix well in bowl and spread on a platter
- Garnish with parsley
- Serve with pita bread
Looking for more great recipes?
The cookbook Beautiful World by Jim Brickman and friends
blends international cuisine and all-American home cooking.
Magic of Christmas is filled with delicious cookies and more
