Baba ganoush with walnuts is a flavorful and healthy appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of roasted eggplant, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice creates a creamy and tangy base, while the addition of crushed walnuts adds a satisfying crunch.
To make this dish, you will need simple ingredients like eggplant, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and crushed walnuts.
History of Baba Ganoush
Baba ganoush is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that originated in Lebanon. It is made from roasted eggplant, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. The dish is typically served as a dip with pita bread or vegetables.
The word “baba” means father or daddy in Arabic, and “ganoush” means spoiled or pampered. Some believe that the name refers to the creamy texture of the dish, which is achieved by blending the roasted eggplant with the other ingredients.
Baba ganoush has been enjoyed in the Middle East for centuries, but it wasn’t until the 20th century that it gained popularity in the Western world. Today, it is a staple in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants around the globe.
Adding walnuts to baba ganoush is a modern twist on the traditional recipe. The nutty flavor and crunchy texture of the walnuts complement the creamy eggplant perfectly, making it a delicious and nutritious snack.
Nutritional Benefits
This dip is not only a delicious dish but also a healthy one. As someone who enjoys cooking and eating healthy food, I am always on the lookout for dishes that are both tasty and nutritious. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of this dish:
High in Fiber
Eggplants, which are the main ingredient in baba ganoush, are a great source of fiber. Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and can help prevent constipation and other digestive issues. Walnuts are also a good source of fiber, making it a great dish for those looking to increase their fiber intake.
Rich in Antioxidants
Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, especially nasunin, which is found in the skin of the eggplant. Antioxidants are important for fighting free radicals in the body, which can cause damage to cells and lead to diseases such as cancer. Walnuts are also a good source of antioxidants, making this dip a great dish for those looking to boost their antioxidant intake.
Low in Calories
This dip is a low-calorie dish, making it a great option for those looking to maintain or lose weight. One serving contains approximately 150 calories, making it a great option for a healthy snack or appetizer.
Good Source of Healthy Fats
Walnuts are a great source of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain health and can help reduce inflammation in the body. This is a great way to incorporate healthy fats into your diet.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. of eggplant
- 1 minced garlic clove
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp of lemon juice, to taste
- salt to taste
- 1/2 cup of crushed walnuts
How to Make Baba Ganoush with Walnuts?
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the eggplant in half lengthwise and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Allow the eggplant to cool completely before proceeding.
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Once cool, remove the skin from the roasted eggplant. Minor bits of skin remaining are acceptable and will not significantly affect the final product. Roughly chop the peeled eggplant into 2-inch pieces.
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In a food processor, combine the chopped eggplant with minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Process the mixture in short pulses until it reaches a smooth consistency.
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Taste the baba ganoush and adjust the seasoning with additional lemon juice or salt, as desired. For a textural contrast, fold in crushed walnuts. Serve the baba ganoush in a bowl with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Baba Ganoush with Walnuts
If you’re a fan of spicy foods, you can easily add some heat to your baba ganoush. Simply add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño pepper to the mix before blending. You can also experiment with different types of hot sauce to find the perfect level of spiciness for your taste buds.
Herbed Baba Ganoush
For a fresh twist on the classic baba ganoush recipe, try adding some fresh herbs to the mix. Chopped parsley, cilantro, or mint can add a burst of flavor and color to your dip. You can also try experimenting with other herbs like basil or thyme to find your perfect combination.
Another option is to top your baba ganoush with a sprinkle of herbs and a drizzle of olive oil before serving. This will give your dip a beautiful presentation and an extra boost of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving my baba ganoush as a dip with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or crackers. It’s a perfect appetizer for any gathering or party.
For a more substantial meal, I like to serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or lamb. The smoky flavors of the baba ganoush complement the grilled meat perfectly.
Another great way to enjoy this dish is by spreading it on a sandwich or wrap. Add some sliced vegetables, cheese, and your favorite protein to create a delicious and healthy lunch.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using baba ganoush as a pizza topping. Spread it on a pre-baked pizza crust, add some roasted vegetables and cheese, and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Storage and Shelf Life
Here are some tips on how to store your delicious dip:
- Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help keep it fresh for up to 5 days.
- If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it. Simply transfer the baba ganoush to a freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to 3 months.
- When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the dip overnight in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before serving to make sure it’s well mixed.
It’s important to note that the texture of the baba ganoush may change slightly after being stored in the refrigerator or freezer, but it will still taste delicious. Just give it a good stir before serving to make sure everything is well-mixed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Firstly, one common mistake is using overcooked eggplants. Overcooked eggplants can become mushy and watery, which can make the baba ganoush too thin and less flavorful. To avoid this, make sure to roast your eggplants until they are just tender, but not overly soft. You can test the eggplants by poking them with a fork – they should be soft enough to easily pierce, but not so soft that they collapse.
Another mistake to avoid is using stale or rancid walnuts can ruin the dish’s flavor. Walnuts can go bad quickly, so make sure to use fresh walnuts that have been stored properly. To ensure freshness, store your walnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
Conclusion
I hope you found this article on baba ganoush with walnuts informative and helpful in expanding your culinary knowledge. Throughout my research and experimentation, I discovered that adding walnuts to baba ganoush not only enhances the flavor but also provides a nutritional boost.
Incorporating walnuts into your diet has been shown to have numerous health benefits, such as improving heart health and brain function. Plus, they add a satisfying crunch to the creamy texture of the baba ganoush.
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and try new things in the kitchen. Who knows, you might just stumble upon your new favorite recipe!
Thank you for reading, and happy cooking!
Just so you know, this baba ganoush pairs well with cherry tomatoes shakshuka.
Get its recipe now (by clicking the image below):
