Ingredients:
- medium eggplants (approx. 1.5 lbs total)
- large cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- tablespoons tahini paste (well-stirred)
- tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for mixing) plus extra for drizzling
- /2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- /4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Pinch of smoked paprika (optional, for dusting)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil. Pierce the skin of each eggplant 4-5 times deeply with a sharp knife.
- Roast the eggplants directly on the oven rack until the skin is blistered and black, and the flesh yields completely when pressed (approx. 30–40 minutes). Alternatively, char them over a gas flame using tongs until completely collapsed.
- Allow the eggplants to cool slightly, then slice them lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop all the soft, smoky flesh into a fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl. Discard the charred skin.
- Let the eggplant flesh drain for 10–15 minutes to remove excess bitter liquid. Transfer the drained flesh to a mixing bowl and lightly chop it with a fork.
- Add the minced garlic, tahini, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, cumin, and salt to the eggplant. Stir vigorously with a fork until well combined and relatively smooth. Avoid over-processing if using a machine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: add the remaining lemon juice if brightness is needed, or more salt. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of olive oil until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the Baba Ganoush to a shallow serving dish. Use the back of a spoon to create a shallow swirl in the center.
- Drizzle generously with high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a light dusting of smoked paprika, if desired. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled with warm pita bread.