Lebanese Moutabel (Spicy Eggplant Dip)
Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Total: 45 mins | Servings: 8 servings
Eggplant is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern cooking. Also called the aubergine or patlican in some countries, the eggplant is a versatile vegetable. Well, actually, the eggplant is technically a fruit, but like the tomato, it is referred to as a vegetable.
In Middle Eastern cooking, you will find eggplants that are stuffed, fried, used in salads, soups, and many other delicious dishes. Because the eggplant is bitter, after slicing the eggplant, soak the eggplant in heavily salted water. Rinse with cold water and pat dry. This will remove much of the bitter taste. Eggplant skin and flesh are extremely absorbent of oil and other ingredients. This is perfect for stuffing or in sauces, soups, and casseroles.
Enjoy moutabel dip with pita bread or crackers.
By Saad Fayed
Ingredients
3 eggplants
1/3 cup tahini
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 to 3 green chile peppers, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon pepper, to taste
Steps to Make It
1. Gather the ingredients. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. Place eggplants on a lightly greased baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30 minutes, or until eggplants are tender. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
4. Once eggplants have cooled, peel the skins. They should come off fairly easily. If you are having a tough time, just scoop the eggplant from the skin with a spoon. Set aside.
5. In a food processor, combine and blend the tahini, garlic, and peppers.
6. Add the eggplant and blend well.
7. Add the olive oil.
8. Transfer to a serving bowl. Stir in the lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Tip
- Store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
How do you select eggplant?
When at the market shopping for eggplants, choose eggplants that do not have brown spots on the skin or a stem that feels heavy for its size. The stem should be green and free of mold. Look for skin that is shiny and smooth without bruises or blemishes. When you apply gentle pressure, the skin should be resilient and bounce back.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
181 Calories | 8g Fat | 29g Carbs | 4g Protein
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