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Baba ganoush is a Middle Eastern dip that is ultra-creamy, smoky, and addicting! Made from roasted eggplants and seasoned with tahini, garlic, and spices, this velvety spread makes the perfect appetizer or snack. Enjoy it with warm pita bread, crisp vegetables, wraps, sandwiches, and more.

Baba ganoush.
Baba ganoush is a perfect dip for any occasion

 💜 Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Healthy for you: Eggplants are packed with vitamins, minerals, and a particular antioxidant, nasunin, that helps prevent cell damage from free radicals.
  • Versatile: This dip is perfect for serving at parties, as a snack, or as part of a mezze platter. Seriously, what can’t it do?!
  • Easy to make: With surprisingly few steps, this delicious dip is ready to enjoy!
  • Vegan-friendly: Baba ganoush is not traditionally made with animal products, meaning is suitable for those following a vegan diet.

If you love baba ganoush, you should really check out our homemade hummus recipe, beet hummus, vegan tzatziki, lemon herb tahini, and lemon tahini dressing.

🍆 What is baba ganoush?

Baba ganoush (aka baba ghanouj, baba ghanoush, or mutabbal) is a dip traditionally included in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. It normally consists of grilled or roasted eggplant, olive oil, garlic, lemon, tahini, and savory spices.

It shares a lot of similarities with its more popular counterpart, hummus. The difference is that baba ganoush gets its creaminess from a base of roasted or grilled eggplant instead of chickpeas.

Once everything comes together, baba ganoush has a smoky, sweet, and slightly tangy taste. It’s typically served with warm pita bread, but it can also be used as a spread on sandwiches, as a dipping sauce for vegetables, or as part of a meze platter.

Baba Ganoush With Pita Bread.
Serve it with pita or veggies

🏆 Best eggplants for baba ganoush

Creating the perfect baba ganoush starts with selecting the best eggplants! Here are the top picks to make this creamy, dreamy dip:

  • Globe eggplants: These are the most common variety and work well for baba ganoush. Choose small-medium globe eggplants for the best texture.
  • Italian eggplants: Slightly smaller and sweeter than the globe variety, Italian eggplants lend a unique flavor profile to the dish.
  • Japanese eggplants: While these are long and slim, they roast beautifully and add a nice sweet flavor to baba ganoush.
  • Chinese eggplants: This variety is very similar to Japanese eggplants and can be used interchangeably.
  • White eggplants: White eggplants are less bitter than their purple counterparts, so they can add a mild and subtly sweet flavor to your dip.
  • Indian eggplants: These are small but flavorful! You’ll need a few more for this dip due to their size.

Remember, no matter the type, choose eggplants that are firm and heavy for their size for the best results.

🌱 Is baba ganoush vegan?

Baba ganoush is naturally vegan, as it does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. The main components of this dish — eggplant, tahini, and spices — are all plant-based, making it a perfect option for those following a vegan diet.

Ingredients for baba ganoush.
Choose runny tahini for the best consistency

🛒 Ingredients & substitutions

  • Glob eggplant: Lends a smoky flavor and creamy texture to the dip. You can also try any of the other varieties listed above for a slightly different taste and texture.
  • Olive oil: Adds richness and flavor to the dish, plus a dose of heart-healthy fats. You could use avocado or grapeseed oil instead, but the flavor will vary slightly.
  • Smoked paprika: Helps achieve a signature smoky baba ganoush flavor without the need for a barbecue. You can replace it with regular paprika, but the smoky element will be less pronounced.
  • Lemon juice: The tangy acidity from lemon juice balances out the richness of the other ingredients. Lime juice or vinegar will also work in a pinch.
  • Tahini: Adds nuttiness and creaminess to the dip. Make sure you’re using runny tahini typically found in Mediterranean markets. Some of our favorite brands include ARZ Fine Foods, Tamam, Alkanatar, Baron’s, Okka, and Soom.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a savory, zesty kick. If you’re not a fan of raw garlic, you can use garlic powder or roasted garlic as an alternative.
  • Parsley: This herb adds a touch of freshness and color to the baba ganoush. You can also use cilantro or mint for a different flavor profile.
  • Salt & pepper: Help bring out the flavors in the dip. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences.

For a complete ingredient list and step-by-step guide, scroll down to our recipe card.

📝 How to make baba ganoush

Step 1: Prepare the eggplant

While your oven is preheating, slice the eggplant, and season the slices with salt to draw out excess water. This step helps ensure a rich and creamy baba ganoush. We don’t suggest skipping it!

Sliced Raw Eggplant In A Strainer.
Salt the eggplant to remove moisture

Step 2: Season and bake the eggplant

Once the eggplant looks nice and sweaty, pat the slices dry, then transfer them to a lined baking sheet. Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and smoked paprika, then bake them until they’re tender and slightly charred.

Roasted Eggplant, Parsley, Tahini, and Seasonings In A Food Processor.
Pulse or mash the ingredients

Step 3: Mash the ingredients

After peeling the cooled eggplant, pulse it with the remaining seasonings until the consistency is to your liking. You can also mash the eggplant with the other mix-ins if you prefer a chunkier texture.

Pita Bread With Baba Ganoush Dip.
Thick, creamy, and perfect for dipping

Step 4: Garnish and serve

Transfer the baba ganoush to a bowl and add your favorite garnishes before serving with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables. Happy eating!

If you have questions about this baba ganoush recipe, check out our FAQs or leave a comment down below!

🥒 What to serve with baba ganoush

Whether you’re making this baba ganoush for an afternoon snack or to be part of a meze platter, you’ll need some sides! Here are some ideas to try out:

🌡️ Storage & reheating

In the unlikely event that you end up with leftover baba ganoush, here’s what to do:

  • Fridge: You can store baba ganoush in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze the dip in an airtight container for up to 3-4 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving it again.
  • Reheating: Baba ganoush is delicious cold, but if you prefer it warm, reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Alternatively, microwave it for 30-60 seconds until warm.
  • Prep ahead: You can roast the eggplant in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before making the dip. Just blend or mash everything when you’re ready to eat!
Baba Ganoush With Pita Bread.
Let it rest so the flavors meld together

♻️ Variations

  • Spices: Include a spoonful of za’atar for an earthy, herby taste. Or, try sumac for a bright, tangy element.
  • Add-ins: Incorporate roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, colorful twist.
  • Spicy: Stir in some muhammara, harissa, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Grilled: Use a grill or open flame on a gas stove if you have one to achieve a more traditional smoky and charred flavor. Roast the eggplants whole, then simply peel the skin off before combining it with the other ingredients.

🧑‍🍳 Top tips

  • Choose the right eggplant: Opt for a firm, heavy eggplant with smooth, shiny skin. Remember, the smaller the better!
  • Don’t skip salting: No one wants to end up with watery baba ganoush! Don’t forget to let the eggplant rest after salting to remove excess moisture.
  • Achieve a charred flavor: Don’t skip broiling the eggplant for a deeper, smoky flavor, especially if you don’t own a grill or gas stove!
  • Let it rest: After you’ve mixed your baba ganoush, let it chill in the fridge for a few hours to allow the flavors time to develop.
  • Make it your own: Experiment with different garnishes, like toasted pine nuts, fresh herbs, and spices, to add a unique color and texture to the dish.

💬FAQ

What does baba ganoush taste like?

Baba ganoush has a smoky, slightly tangy flavor, with a creamy texture from the blended or mashed eggplant and tahini. It can be customized to suit your taste by adjusting the seasonings and garnishes.

Is baba ganoush healthy?

Yes, baba ganoush is a very healthy dip! It’s made with antioxidant-rich eggplant, heart-healthy olive oil, and protein-packed tahini. It is also naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Can I make baba ganoush without tahini?

Yes, you can make baba ganoush without tahini by substituting it with cashew butter or additional olive oil. This will change the flavor and texture slightly but still result in a creamy and delicious dip.

Why do you salt eggplant before making baba ganoush?

Salting the eggplant helps draw out excess moisture, which prevents the dip from becoming watery and improves the overall texture of the baba ganoush.

Do I need to peel the eggplant before making baba ganoush?

No, you do not need to peel the eggplant before making baba ganoush. The skin will be removed after roasting the eggplant, as it will easily separate from the flesh.

🍴 More flavor-packed recipes

If you enjoyed this baba ganoush, check out a few more of our favorite vegan recipes for flavor inspiration:

Baba ganoush in a glass jar.

Best Ever Baba Ganoush

Mitch and Justine
Baba ganoush is a Middle Eastern dip that is ultra-creamy, smoky, and addicting! Made from roasted eggplants and seasoned with tahini, garlic, and spices, this velvety spread makes the perfect appetizer or snack.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer, Sauce, Snack
Cuisine Gluten-Free, Mediterranean, Vegan
Servings 6 servings
Calories 101 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
 

Roasted eggplant

  • 1 globe eggplant
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Mix-ins

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons runny tahini
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian flat-leaf parsley, finely minced
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Sea salt & pepper to taste

Garnishes optional

  • Toasted sesame seeds or pine nuts
  • Fresh parsley
  • Olive oil drizzle
  • Extra paprika or other spices

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
  • Cut the eggplant into ¼-inch circles, season with salt, and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess water. Then, rinse them slightly and pat dry with a clean towel.
  • Transfer eggplant slices to the aluminum-lined baking sheet. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil and smoked paprika.
  • Bake the eggplant slices for 25 minutes, flipping halfway. Turn your oven to high broil and leave them in for another 2 minutes to achieve a smokier flavor.
  • Let the eggplant cool for 5-10 minutes before peeling the skin off. You should be able to remove it fairly easily.
  • Transfer the flesh to a food processor with olive oil, paprika, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, parsley, and sea salt & pepper to taste.
  • Pulse until you achieve your desired consistency (we prefer a smoother baba ganoush, but you can also mash everything for a more rustic texture). Taste and adjust any seasonings as needed.
  • Transfer the mixture to a jar or bowl and garnish with chopped parsley, toasted sesame seeds, a drizzle of olive oil, etc. Serve immediately, or let it cool in the fridge beforehand. Happy eating!

Notes

  • Choose the right eggplant: Opt for a firm, heavy eggplant with smooth, shiny skin. Remember, the smaller the better!
  • Don’t skip salting: No one wants to end up with watery baba ganoush! Don’t forget to let the eggplant rest after salting to remove excess moisture.
  • Achieve a charred flavor: Don’t skip broiling the eggplant for a deeper, smoky flavor, especially if you don’t own a grill or gas stove!
  • Let it rest: After you’ve mixed your baba ganoush, let it chill in the fridge for a few hours to allow the flavors time to develop.
  • Make it your own: Experiment with different garnishes, like toasted pine nuts, fresh herbs, and spices, to add a unique color and texture to the dish.
  • Nutritional information is a rough estimate and should not be taken as health advice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 101kcal | Carbohydrates: 8.5g | Protein: 2.1g | Fat: 7.4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 8.7mg | Potassium: 296.6mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4.3g | Vitamin A: 180IU | Vitamin C: 5.4mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 0.8mg
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Note: We’ve updated this post to include new information and helpful tips about the recipe.

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Recipe Rating




2 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    Very delicious!! Made this with roasted garlic and added 3 jalapenos that I roasted at same time as the eggplant which added some zip!