Middle Eastern Dip Recipes

MIDDLE EASTERN FIRE-ROASTED EGGPLANT DIP: BABAGANOUSH

Steps:

• There are 2 ways to cook the eggplants. The first way, on the stovetop, is my favorite because it yields a much smokier-flavored babaganoush.
• For the stovetop method: Turn 2 burners up full-throttle. Place 1 eggplant on each burner and, using a pair of tongs, turn every 5 minutes or so, until the entire surface of eggplant is charred and crispy, about 15 minutes. Don't worry if the eggplant deflates a little. Remove from the burner and place on a plate to cool.
• For the oven method: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Prick the eggplants all over with a fork (this keeps the eggplant from exploding in the oven, so don't skip this step). Place on a baking sheet and roast until softened, about 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
• Regardless of the cooking method you choose, once the eggplant is cool enough to touch with your hands, carefully peel the charred skin off the eggplant. Discard the skin. Move the flesh onto your chopping board, slice off the stem and discard. Using your knife, mince the flesh until almost smooth. Scoop into a bowl.
• Add the lemon juice, tahini, parsley, and a little salt and pepper. Whisk together and taste for seasoning. Feel free to add more lemon juice, more salt and pepper... it will vary depending on the size of your eggplant, and how you like your 'ganoush! Serve with pita chips.

MIDDLE EASTERN DIP

Steps:

• Combine all the ingredients in a food processor. Process until the mixture is smooth ad creamy and no lumps remain, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

MIDDLE EASTERN DIPS

Steps:

• Combine all ingredients for hummus in a large food processor or electric mixer and puree. Add a little of the reserved chick pea liquid to smooth out. Adjust seasoning as needed. Press hummus through a large sieve. Garnish and serve with bread.
• Combine all ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and continue to stir to prevent scorching on the bottom. Simmer until all liquid is gone and spread is smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with sliced green onions, diced red peppers and the extra virgin olive oil. Serve in a bowl with bread.

MIDDLE EASTERN TAHINI DIP

Steps:

• In bowl, stir 1/3 cup water into tahini.
• Stir in lemon rind and 1/3 cup lemon juice, then another 1/3 cup water.
• Stir in parsley, garlic, cumin and salt.
• (Dip can be covered and refrigerated for up to 8 hours. Serve at room temperature.).
• Canadian Living.