For most people, hummus is the end-all be-all when it comes to Mediterranean dips. Well, I’m here to tell you that there is another option out there. I’m referring, of course, to baba ganoush. I’m sure you have questions, like, what’s baba ganoush? What is in baba ganoush? What does baba ganoush mean? Is baba ganoush vegan or vegetarian? Where is baba ganoush from? Let’s set the story straight.
What is baba ganoush?
Like hummus, baba ganoush (sometimes styled as baba ghanouj) is a popular Middle Eastern meze (small plate) that’s often eaten as a dip with pita bread.
What is in baba ganoush?
Baba ganoush is made with roasted or grilled eggplant. That’s what gives it that nice, smoky flavor. The cooked eggplant is chopped into a mushy consistency and mixed with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and tahini. Some recipes (such as this one from the New York Times) also include plain yogurt, while others also include herbs like mint and parsley.
Is baba ganoush vegan?
So, if baba ganoush is pretty much just eggplant mixed with some seasonings it has to be vegan, right? Yep, most baba ganoush qualifies as vegan or at least vegetarian. There are a few versions out there that may not be strictly vegan. In Syria, baba ganoush is sometimes made a little creamier by mixing in sheep cheese. Just double check labels or ask.
Is baba ganoush served hot or cold?
Baba ganoush is usually served cold. You can eat it hot if you want. But cold baba ganoush is the way to go.
Where is baba ganoush from?
Baba ganoush is from the Levant. The Levant is made up of several countries in the eastern Mediterranean: Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, Syria, and Turkey, among others. Different countries like to claim baba ganoush as their own and have their own unique styles. Some even have their own spelling. Baba ganoush can also be called baba ghanouj or baba ghanoush.
In Armenia, there’s a dish similar to baba ganoush known as mutabal. Mutabal is spicier and includes cumin.
What does baba ganoush mean?
In Arabic, bābā is used as a term of endearment for friends, and it also means father. The term baba ganoush translates to “father of coquetry,” which basically means “pampered daddy.” Next time you’re at a restaurant ordering baba ganoush, try to order some pampered daddy instead. They’ll love that.
FAQs
baba ghanoush, relish with Middle Eastern origins that is made of eggplant (aubergine) blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. The Arabic term for the dish means “pampered daddy,” the person in question being, legend has it, a sultan spoiled with a concoction invented by a member of his harem.
Is baba ganoush healthy or unhealthy? ›
Baba Ghanouj is a healthy food choice. The main ingredient, eggplant, is low in calories and fiber. Eggplants also contain antioxidants. These compounds help protect the body from damage by harmful molecules called free radicals.
What are the main ingredients in baba ganoush? ›
In its most basic form, baba ganoush is made with eggplant, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and salt. I found that adding a tiny bit of ground cumin, smoked paprika and fresh parsley takes it to the next level. Baba ganoush is similar to hummus, but it calls for grilled or roasted eggplant instead of chickpeas.
Is baba ganoush healthier than hummus? ›
When it comes to the nutritional contents of baba ganoush and hummus, they are pretty similar. Both have 0% cholesterol and are high in fiber and protein content. Nonetheless, hummus has higher calorie content than baba ganoush, and baba ganoush contains vitamins B and E, which are nonexistent in hummus.
What is baba ganoush slang for? ›
The word bābā in Arabic is a term of endearment for 'father', while Ġannūj could be a personal name. The word combination is also interpreted as 'father of coquetry' or 'indulged/pampered/flirtatious daddy' or 'spoiled old daddy'.
What is the significance of baba ganoush? ›
Historical Roots and Cultural Significance
Baba Ghanoush has ancient origins, with its roots deeply entrenched in the Levant region. This eggplant-based dish is more than just a culinary delight; it represents centuries of culinary tradition and the communal spirit of sharing a meal.
What culture eats baba ganoush? ›
Baba Ghanoush is eaten in many Middle Eastern countries such as Syria, Lebanon and extending as far as the territorial reach of the Ottoman empire. But Baba Ghanoush also is big in Brazil and West India. Romanians and Greeks also consume the appetizer.
How long can baba ganoush last? ›
Homemade baba ganoush can be stored in the fridge in a tight-lid container for about 4 days or so (some say up to a week, but mine never lasts that long).
What is the difference between baba ganoush and Baba Ghanouj? ›
Baba ganoush (also known as baba ghanouj or baba ghanoush) is one of the most popular dips in Lebanese cuisine—and at my table! That is because the flavor of this creamy dip is so bright and smokey. Its luscious texture goes with dippers of every sort: crackers, pita chips, pita wedges, fresh veggies, you name it.
Why is baba ganoush not vegan? ›
Yep, most baba ganoush qualifies as vegan or at least vegetarian. There are a few versions out there that may not be strictly vegan. In Syria, baba ganoush is sometimes made a little creamier by mixing in sheep cheese. Just double check labels or ask.
I love to serve baba ganoush as an appetizer or snack.
It would go well with other dips like hummus or tzatziki, small bites like olives or feta, tabbouleh or Greek salad, and/or falafel.
Do you eat baba ganoush hot or cold? ›
Baba Ghanoush is delicious. Made with eggplant that's been fire roasted (either on a hot grill or under a broiler) to the point of shriveling, it can be served as a side dish. Typically, though, it's a cold or room temperature spread, served with pita bread or crostini or crusty French bread… or a spoon.
Why does baba ganoush taste so good? ›
Baba ganoush has a similar texture to hummus--and an almost identical ingredients list--but instead of pureed chickpeas, the bulk comes from an eggplant. The eggplant is usually roasted or grilled, which gives it a smoky, rather intriguing flavor.
Is baba ganoush good for gut health? ›
Fiber for Digestive Health: A serving of baba ganoush is a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health, helping to prevent constipation and maintain a healthy gut. This makes baba ganoush a gut-friendly dish.
Why is baba ganoush sour? ›
Baba Ghanoush may taste bitter due to factors like the choice of eggplant, insufficient roasting, or the use of too much garlic, lemon juice, or low-quality tahini.
What is the other name for baba ganoush? ›
Baba ganoush–also known as baba ganouj, muttabal, or salat hatzilim–is a smoky, rich, and creamy eggplant dip, traditionally made by mixing tender roasted (or charred) eggplant and nutty tahini with garlic, citrus, and spices.
What does baba ganoush taste like? ›
Rich, smoky flavor: The unique, smoky taste of Baba Ghanoush comes from roasting the eggplant, which gives it a deep, earthy flavor that people can't get enough of. Creamy texture: Baba Ghanoush has a smooth and velvety texture, making it a perfect dip for pita chips, vegetables, or as a spread in sandwiches and wraps.
Which country invented baba ganoush? ›
While the actual location of origin is somewhat argued, both Levantine and Lebanese cultures to claim ownership of origination. The question is which culture had access to eggplant first since the origin of eggplant is India. In several traditions, baba ghanoush is served as the first course in a large family meal.
