published Aug 25, 2023 If you are a hummus lover but are looking to switch things up, this baba ganoush recipe is going to be right up your alley. Also sometimes spelled baba ghanoush, this dreamy, creamy, Mediterranean dip is undeniably delicious. Traditionally served as an appetizer, I keep finding any excuse I can to include it in my meals! I see so many versions of baba ganoush out there that really are mutabal. While both mezze dishes contain roasted, smoky eggplant (known as aubergines outside the US), baba ganoush is much lighter and always contains lemon, garlic, olive oil, pomegranate molasses, herbs and fresh peppers and or vegetables. Mutabal is simpler in ingredients, has no pomegranate molasses, but does have tahini and often times yogurt. While baba ganoush is the default appetizer dip in most Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants, mutabal on the other hand, is no where to be found! From my research, the only difference between the two is that baba ganoush DOES NOT contain tahini. Of course each country and family add or delete ingredients based on region and family recipe, alas baba ganoush is traditionally tahini free. So in the end, it would seem one is the appetizer cousin of the other, BUT I’ll have you know they also have a Greek relative known as melitzanosalata, too! I hope you give all three a try. For more amazing eggplant recipes, check out my Eggplant Moussaka, Spiced Eggplant Stew, and this Szechuan Pork and Eggplant Stir Fry. Love this recipe? Share it with the world on Pinterest.
