Baba Ghanouj served on pita is a delightful Mediterranean dish that combines the smoky flavor of roasted eggplants with the tang of fresh lemon and the creaminess of tahini. This dish is perfect for a light lunch, a snack, or as an appetizer at a dinner gathering. The simplicity of the ingredients allows each flavor to shine on its own and blend seamlessly together.
While most ingredients in this recipe are staples like garlic and cucumber, there are a few you might not have at home. Tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, is a crucial ingredient for Baba Ghanouj. It adds a nutty flavor and creamy texture. It is commonly found in the international or health food section in supermarkets. Similarly, the eggplants are central to this dish, and it's best to go for the large variety as they have more flesh and fewer seeds.
Ingredients for Baba Ghanouj Served on Pita
Eggplants: These are the base for the Baba Ghanouj. When roasted, they become tender and develop a smoky flavor.
Olive oil: Used for roasting the eggplants and in the dressing, it adds a rich, fruity flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavor of the other ingredients.
Pitas: These are the 'vehicle' for the Baba Ghanouj. They have a soft, slightly chewy texture.
Lemon juice: Adds a tangy freshness to balance out the rich, smoky eggplant.
Tahini: A sesame seed paste that adds a nutty flavor and creamy texture.
Cumin: Gives an earthy, warm flavor.
Garlic: Adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor.
Romaine lettuce, plum tomato, cucumber: These are for the salad topping, adding a crunchy, refreshing element.
Wine vinegar: Used in the salad dressing, it brings a bright, acidic note.
One reader, Lannie Fishman says:
This baba ghanouj served on pita recipe is a game-changer! The creamy texture of the baba ghanouj paired with the warm pita is simply divine. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is so satisfying. It's a must-try for anyone who loves Mediterranean cuisine!
Techniques for Perfect Baba Ghanouj
How to roast eggplant: Cut the eggplant into cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven at 450°F until soft and golden, stirring occasionally.
How to warm pitas: Wrap the pitas in aluminum foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
How to make baba ghanouj: In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted eggplant, lemon juice, tahini, cumin, garlic, and salt, then puree until smooth.
How to make salad: In a bowl, combine lettuce, tomato, and cucumber, then add vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper, and toss to combine.
How to serve: Spread baba ghanouj on each pita and top with the salad.
How To Make Baba Ghanouj on Pita
Baba ghanouj is a rich and creamy Middle Eastern dip made of eggplants, lemon juice, and olive oil. This recipe serves it on warm pita for a tasteful snack!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2large eggplants,(about 2 lbs each)
- 3tbspolive oil
- ¾tspsalt
- ½tspfresh ground black pepper
- 8pitas
- ¼cuplemon juice,(from about 1 lemon)
- 1cuptahini
- ¾tspground cumin
- 2garlic cloves
- 3¾lbsromaine lettuce,(1 small head)
- 1plum tomato
- 1cucumber
- ½tspwine vinegar
Instructions
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Heat the oven to 450 degrees F.
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Put the eggplant cubes on a large baking sheet and toss with 2 tablespoons of the oil and ¼ teaspoon each of the salt and pepper.
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Arrange the cubes in a single layer and roast, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until soft and golden. Set aside to cool.
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Reduce the heat to 350 degrees F.
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Wrap the pitas in aluminum foil, making two packets of four, and warm in the oven for 10 minutes.
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Put the roasted eggplant, the lemon juice, tahini, cumin, garlic, and ¼ teaspoon of the salt in a blender or food processor puree until smooth.
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In a medium glass or stainless-steel bowl, combine the lettuce, tomato, and cucumber. Add the vinegar and the remaining tablespoon of oil and ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
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Spread some of the baba ghanouj on each pita and then top with the salad. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 871.31kcal
- Fat: 46.92g
- Saturated Fat: 6.63g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 20.06g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 17.18g
- Carbohydrates: 102.73g
- Fiber: 32.37g
- Sugar: 20.27g
- Protein: 28.69g
- Sodium: 958.05mg
- Calcium: 463.46mg
- Potassium: 2420.84mg
- Iron: 13.75mg
- Vitamin A: 1869.91µg
- Vitamin C: 35.18mg
Pro Tip for Enhancing Baba Ghanouj Flavor
When roasting the eggplant, make sure to toss them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and achieve a golden color. This will enhance the flavor of your baba ghanouj. Also, when blending the ingredients for the baba ghanouj, start at a low speed and gradually increase to avoid splashing. This will also help achieve a smoother texture. Lastly, when assembling the pita, spread the baba ghanouj evenly to ensure every bite has a balance of flavors.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Baba Ghanouj Served on Pita
Prep ahead: Chop and roast the eggplant in advance to save time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Use store-bought pita: Save time by using store-bought pita bread instead of making it from scratch. Look for fresh, high-quality pitas at your local grocery store.
Multi-task: While the eggplant is roasting, prepare the salad and dressing to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Invest in a good blender: A high-quality blender or food processor can significantly speed up the process of making the baba ghanouj, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture with minimal effort.
Batch cooking: Consider making a larger quantity of baba ghanouj and storing the extra portions for future use. It can be refrigerated for several days, allowing you to enjoy it as a quick and convenient snack or meal component.
Substitute Ingredients For Baba Ghanouj on Pita Recipe
eggplants - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can be used as a substitute for eggplant in baba ghanouj. It has a similar texture when roasted and can provide a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil. It has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for roasting the vegetables.
pitas - Substitute with naan bread: Naan bread can be used as a substitute for pitas. It has a soft and chewy texture, perfect for serving with baba ghanouj.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for lemon juice to add acidity to the baba ghanouj.
tahini - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for tahini. It provides a nutty flavor and creamy texture similar to tahini.
romaine lettuce - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach can be used as a substitute for romaine lettuce to add a fresh and vibrant element to the dish.
plum tomato - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be used as a substitute for plum tomatoes. They offer a sweet and juicy flavor, perfect for garnishing the baba ghanouj.
cucumber - Substitute with bell pepper: Bell pepper can be used as a substitute for cucumber to add a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for wine vinegar to add a tangy and slightly fruity flavor to the baba ghanouj.
How to Beautifully Present Baba Ghanouj and Pita
- Elevate the plating: Arrange the baba ghanouj on the pita in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully.
- Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant elements such as fresh herbs or edible flowers to add pops of color to the dish, creating a visually striking presentation.
- Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the dish is meticulously presented with attention to detail.
- Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to breathe and create a sense of balance in the overall presentation.
- Highlight texture: Incorporate elements with varying textures, such as crispy pita and creamy baba ghanouj, to add depth and interest to the presentation.
- Incorporate height: Consider stacking or layering certain elements to add dimension and height to the dish, creating a visually dynamic presentation.
- Emphasize symmetry: Strive for symmetrical plating to create a sense of harmony and balance in the presentation of the baba ghanouj on pita.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Baba Ghanouj
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking or roasting food.
- Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking items in the oven.
- Blender or food processor: An electric kitchen appliance used for mixing, blending, or pureeing food.
- Aluminum foil: A thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for wrapping food for cooking or storage.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
- Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A sturdy board used for cutting and preparing food.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting, spreading, or flipping food.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms that are joined at one end, used for picking up and manipulating food.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients.
- Pita: A type of round pocket bread.
- Bowl: A round, deep dish or basin used for serving or mixing food.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients.
- Basting brush: A cooking utensil used to spread sauce, oil, or glaze onto food.
- Lemon squeezer: A tool used to extract juice from lemons or other citrus fruits.
- Salad spinner: A kitchen tool used to wash and remove excess water from salad greens.
- Grater: A kitchen utensil with a surface covered with sharp-edged holes used for shredding or grating food.
- Peeler: A tool used for removing the outer skin or peel of fruits and vegetables.
- Garlic press: A kitchen tool used to crush garlic cloves.
- Vegetable peeler: A tool used to peel the outer skin of vegetables.
- Lettuce spinner: A kitchen tool used to wash and remove excess water from lettuce.
- Paring knife: A small knife used for peeling and other small cutting tasks.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used for draining food such as pasta or vegetables.
- Serving platter: A large, flat dish used for serving food.
- Wine glass: A type of glass used for serving wine.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Baba Ghanouj
- To store leftover baba ghanouj, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld and deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
- If you have extra pita bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the pita for up to 1 month.
- To freeze the baba ghanouj, spoon it into a freezer-safe container, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top for expansion. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- When ready to enjoy the frozen baba ghanouj, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly during the freezing process.
- If you have leftover salad greens, store them in a separate airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly over time.
- For the best quality, avoid freezing the assembled pita sandwiches, as the salad and baba ghanouj will not retain their optimal texture once thawed. Instead, freeze the components separately and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Baba Ghanouj and Pita
To reheat leftover baba ghanouj and pita, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the pita bread in aluminum foil and place it in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until it's warm and soft.
While the pita is warming up, transfer the baba ghanouj to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the spread from drying out. Microwave the baba ghanouj on high for 30-45 seconds, or until it's heated through. Stir the dip to ensure even heating.
Alternatively, you can reheat the baba ghanouj in a saucepan on the stovetop over low heat. Stir the dip constantly to prevent it from sticking or burning. This method may take a bit longer, but it allows you to control the temperature more easily and maintain the desired consistency.
If the reheated baba ghanouj appears too thick, you can thin it out by stirring in a small amount of olive oil, lemon juice, or water until you achieve the desired consistency.
Once the pita and baba ghanouj are heated, you can assemble the dish by spreading the warm dip onto the pita bread. If desired, you can refresh the salad toppings by adding some fresh lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.
For a crispy twist, you can also cut the pita into wedges, brush them with a little olive oil, and toast them in the oven or on a stovetop griddle until they're crispy and golden brown. Serve the warm, crispy pita chips alongside the reheated baba ghanouj for a delightful contrast of textures.
Interesting Trivia About Baba Ghanouj
The recipe for baba ghanouj served on pita is a delicious and healthy option for a meal or snack. It is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is rich in flavor and nutrients. The eggplant used in the recipe is a great source of fiber and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice. Additionally, the tahini provides a good source of healthy fats and the vegetables add a refreshing crunch. This dish is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and can be enjoyed as a light lunch or appetizer. Try making this recipe for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Budget-Friendly Baba Ghanouj Served on Pita
The cost-effectiveness of this baba ghanouj on pita recipe is quite favorable. The main ingredients, such as eggplants, olive oil, and pitas, are generally affordable and widely available. The addition of lemon juice, tahini, and fresh vegetables may slightly increase the cost, but they contribute to the overall flavor and nutritional value. Considering the simplicity of the recipe and the use of basic, accessible ingredients, this dish is a budget-friendly option for a household. On a scale of 1-10, the cost-effectiveness rating would be around 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $15-20 USD.
Is Baba Ghanouj Served on Pita Healthy?
The baba ghanouj served on pita recipe is a relatively healthy dish, as it incorporates several nutritious ingredients such as eggplant, olive oil, lemon juice, tahini, and fresh vegetables. Eggplant is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, while olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats. Tahini, made from sesame seeds, is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and minerals. The fresh vegetables in the salad topping add additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish. However, the recipe also includes pita bread, which is a refined carbohydrate and may not be the healthiest choice for those watching their carbohydrate intake or following a low-carb diet.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use whole wheat pita bread instead of regular pita to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe to lower the overall calorie and fat content
- Add more fresh vegetables to the salad topping, such as bell peppers, onions, or carrots, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
- Use low-fat or fat-free Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the tahini to reduce the fat content while maintaining a creamy texture
- Experiment with other healthy toppings, such as hummus, tzatziki, or balsamic glaze, to add variety and additional nutritional benefits to the dish
Editor's Take on This Delightful Baba Ghanouj Recipe
As a culinary expert, I find this baba ghanouj recipe to be a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The roasted eggplant puree with tahini, garlic, and cumin creates a rich and creamy base, while the fresh salad adds a crisp and refreshing contrast. The warm pita provides a perfect vessel for serving, and the wine recommendation adds a touch of sophistication to the dining experience. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of Middle Eastern flavors and is sure to impress with its balance and depth.
Enhance Your Baba Ghanouj on Pita Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Baba Ghanouj Served on Pita
Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Baba Ghanouj
Why trust this Baba Ghanouj on Pita Recipe:
This recipe for baba ghanouj served on pita is a delightful and authentic Middle Eastern dish. The eggplants are roasted to perfection, creating a smoky and rich flavor. The addition of tahini and lemon juice adds a creamy and tangy element, while the cumin and garlic provide a depth of aromatic spices. The use of romaine lettuce, plum tomato, and cucumber in the accompanying salad brings a refreshing and crunchy contrast. With the careful selection of ingredients and precise instructions, this recipe promises to deliver a satisfying and flavorful experience.
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