Eggplant dip with tahini paste

Eggplant and tahini dip

If you are looking for a delicious, healthy, and extremely simple dip recipe, you have come to the right place! This eggplant and tahini dip will not only delight your taste buds but is also perfect for movie nights or gatherings with friends. Whether you follow a vegetarian diet or simply want a healthy snack, this dip is the ideal choice. Besides its refined taste, it is also an excellent dish for fasting periods, having a rich nutritional profile.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 medium eggplant
- 1 lemon
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 5-6 tablespoons tahini
- 5-6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste

Preparing the eggplant:

1. Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This temperature will ensure even baking of the eggplant, giving it a tender texture and intense flavor.
2. Wash the eggplants well under cold running water and dry them with a kitchen towel. Now comes the fun part! Use a fork to poke the eggplants all over. This important step will allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the eggplant from exploding in the oven.
3. Place the eggplants on a baking tray and put them in the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The eggplants should be soft and slightly caramelized on the outside.

Preparing the dip:

4. Once the eggplants are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a plate. It is important to wait until they have cooled enough to handle without burning yourself.
5. Once the eggplants have cooled, cut them in half and scoop out the flesh using a spoon. The flesh should be soft and tasty, perfect for our dip.
6. Place the eggplant flesh in a food processor. Add the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, the two peeled garlic cloves, and the tahini.
7. Blend the ingredients at medium speed until you obtain a smooth and homogeneous cream. If the consistency is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water or olive oil to help create a finer texture.
8. Taste the dip and add salt if necessary. Depending on your preferences, you can add a hint of pepper or even a bit of smoked paprika for an even more intense flavor.

Serving:

The eggplant tahini dip is best served with tortilla chips, sliced vegetables (carrots, peppers, cucumbers), or even on toasted bread slices. It is a versatile appetizer that fits perfectly in any context, from a casual dinner to a sophisticated party.

Useful tips:

- If you find the dip too sour, you can add a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup to balance the flavors.
- You can experiment with various spices, such as cumin or coriander, to give the dip an exotic touch.
- If you have time, let the dip sit in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight. The flavors will intensify, and the taste will be even more savory.

Nutritional benefits:

This eggplant and tahini dip is rich in nutrients. Eggplants are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (A, C, and B6), and minerals (potassium, magnesium). Tahini, made from sesame, is high in calcium, protein, and antioxidants, making this dip a healthy choice for a snack.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen eggplants?
- It is recommended to use fresh eggplants to achieve the best texture and flavor. Frozen eggplants can be watery and will not provide the same consistency.

2. What can I use instead of tahini?
- If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can use peanut or almond butter, although the taste will be different.

3. Can I make this dip in advance?
- Yes, the eggplant dip can be made a few days in advance and stored in the fridge. Make sure to cover it well to prevent drying out.

Delicious pairings:

This dip pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink like mint lemonade or a dry white wine. You can try serving it alongside bruschetta with tomatoes and basil or a fresh Mediterranean salad.

In conclusion, the eggplant and tahini dip is a simple, delicious, and healthy recipe that can be adapted to your tastes. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family to delight them with this delicacy! Enjoy!