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Moroccan Inspired Eggplant Smoosh

by Youssef Mansour
A rich, flavorful, and textured eggplant dip inspired by traditional Moroccan eggplant salads, offering a vibrant twist on the classic Baba Ganouj.
Total Time
35 mins
Difficulty
Medium

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Simple Tasty Recipes

Ingredients for 4 Servings

  • 1 large
    Eggplant
  • 1, sliced into thin half rings
    Onion
  • 2 medium, chopped
    Tomatoes
  • 5 cloves, minced or pressed
    Garlic
  • 1 small bunch, chopped
    Fresh basil
  • 4 Tbsp
    Tahini
  • 1 tsp
    Turmeric
  • 1 Tbsp
    Cumin
  • 1 Tbsp
    Cayenne pepper (or sweet paprika)
  • 3 Tbsp
    Lemon juice
  • to taste
    Salt
  • for sauteing and drizzling
    Olive oil

Time

  • Preparation Time
    15 mins
  • Cooking Time
    20 mins
  • Total Time
    35 mins

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Method

  1. Roast the whole eggplant over an open flame or in a very hot oven (450°F/230°C) until the skin is charred and the flesh is completely soft and collapsed.
  2. Set the eggplant aside to cool, then peel away the charred skin and discard it. Roughly chop the remaining soft eggplant flesh.
  3. In a skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat and saute the sliced onions until they start to brown and caramelize.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add the chopped tomatoes. Cook for another few minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to break down.
  5. Add the prepared eggplant, turmeric, cumin, cayenne, and fresh basil to the skillet. Cook the mixture together for about 5 minutes, or until the excess moisture evaporates.
  6. Remove from heat, then stir in the tahini, lemon juice, and salt. Adjust the seasonings to your preference.
  7. Serve warm with fresh pita bread and a generous final drizzle of olive oil.

Notes:

  • Roasting Tip: For the most authentic smoky flavor, roast the eggplant directly on a gas burner flame until the skin is charred black.
  • Texture: If you prefer a smoother dip, you can pulse the final mixture in a food processor, though keeping it chunky is more traditional for this 'smoosh' style.
  • Serving: This dip is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature with pita chips or fresh vegetable crudites.
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