3tablespoonsfresh lemon juicefrom about 1.5 lemons
2clovesgarlicminced or pressed
3tablespoonsextra-virgin olive oilplus more for drizzling to serve
3/4teaspoonkosher saltor to taste
1/2teaspoonsmoked paprikafor serving
2tablespoonsfresh flat-leaf parsleyroughly chopped, for garnish
2tablespoonspomegranate arilsoptional, for garnish
Get Recipe Ingredients
Instructions
Char the eggplants: If using a gas stove, place each whole eggplant directly on the grate over a medium-high open flame. If using a broiler, place eggplants on a foil-lined baking sheet under the broiler set to high. If using a grill, place over direct high heat. Cook, turning every 4 to 5 minutes with tongs, until the skin is completely blackened all over and the eggplant feels very soft and collapsed when pressed — about 15 to 25 minutes depending on method.
Drain the eggplants: Transfer the charred eggplants to a colander set over the sink or a bowl. Let them sit and drain for at least 10 to 15 minutes to release excess liquid.
Scoop the flesh: Once cool enough to handle, split each eggplant open and scoop out the soft flesh with a large spoon, discarding the charred skin. If the flesh seems very watery, gently press it in a clean kitchen towel to remove additional moisture.
Mix the dip: Transfer the eggplant flesh to a large bowl. Add the tahini, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and kosher salt. Stir vigorously with a fork or wooden spoon, breaking up the eggplant as you go, until the mixture is mostly smooth but still has some texture. Alternatively, pulse briefly in a food processor — do not over-blend.
Taste and adjust: Taste the Baba Ganoush and adjust seasoning as needed — more salt for depth, more lemon juice for brightness, or more tahini for richness.
Serve: Spread the Baba Ganoush into a wide, shallow serving bowl, using the back of a spoon to create swirls on the surface. Drizzle generously with extra-virgin olive oil, sprinkle with smoked paprika, fresh parsley, and pomegranate arils if using. Serve with warm pita bread and fresh vegetables.
Notes
Make ahead: Baba Ganoush stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor actually deepens overnight. Bring to room temperature before serving and add a fresh drizzle of olive oil. Smoky tip: For maximum smokiness on an electric stove, use the broiler on high and position the eggplant as close to the heating element as possible. Charcoal grill option: Charring over hot charcoal imparts an even deeper, more complex smoke than gas — highly recommended if you have one available. Garlic: For a milder, sweeter garlic flavor, roast a whole head of garlic alongside the eggplant and squeeze the softened cloves into the dip instead of raw garlic.