
AI-generated illustration
Baba Ghanoush is a creamy, smoky dip from the Middle East, primarily made from roasted or grilled eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It's often served as part of a mezze spread with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
It is generally moderate in fat (mostly healthy unsaturated fats from tahini and olive oil), low in protein, and contains some dietary fiber. A typical 2-tablespoon serving provides around 70-100 calories, with key nutrients including vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants from the eggplant.
The dish's signature smoky flavor comes from charring the eggplant whole over an open flame before mashing, a technique that also caramelizes its natural sugars. Nutritionally, the eggplant's skin is rich in nasunin, a potent antioxidant that helps protect cell membranes.