The baba ganoush recipe with chickpeas is a delicious dip made from roasted eggplant, garlic, tahini, and lemon juice with a twist of including chickpeas. It has quickly become a new favorite in my household.
To make this baba ganoush recipe with chickpeas, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. You’ll start with a large eggplant, garlic, cooked chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, non-dairy yogurt, and a blend of spices to create a creamy, flavorful dip that’s perfect for serving with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
History of Baba Ganoush
Baba ganoush is a popular Middle Eastern dip made from eggplant, tahini, olive oil, and various seasonings. The dish has been enjoyed in the Middle East for centuries and has gained popularity in other parts of the world in recent years.
I first discovered baba ganoush during a trip to Lebanon, where it is a staple dish. I was immediately drawn to its smoky flavor and creamy texture. After tasting it, I knew I had to learn more about the history of this delicious dish.
According to some sources, baba ganoush originated in Lebanon and was then introduced to other parts of the Middle East, including Syria, Jordan, and Israel. The name “Baba Ganoush” is Arabic and roughly translates to “father of coquetry” or “father of pampering,” which may refer to the dish’s indulgent and luxurious flavor.
Traditionally, baba ganoush is made by roasting eggplants over an open flame until the skin is charred and the flesh is tender. The eggplant is then peeled and mashed with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. However, some variations of the dish also include chickpeas, which add a nutty flavor and a creamy texture.
In recent years, baba ganoush has gained popularity in Western countries, where it is often served as an appetizer or snack. Its unique flavor and healthy ingredients have made it a favorite among health-conscious consumers. Whether served with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers, Baba Ganoush is a delicious and nutritious dip that is sure to please any palate.
Benefits of Chickpeas in Baba Ganoush
Adding chickpeas to baba ganoush not only enhances its flavor but also provides numerous health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of chickpeas in baba ganoush:
1. Rich in Protein
Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein. By adding chickpeas to baba ganoush, we can increase its protein content, making it a more balanced and nutritious snack.
2. High in Fiber
Chickpeas are also high in fiber, which is essential for maintaining good digestive health. Including chickpeas in baba ganoush can help us meet our daily fiber needs and promote healthy digestion.
3. Lowers Cholesterol
Chickpeas contain soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels in the body. By incorporating chickpeas into baba ganoush, we can enjoy a delicious snack that also promotes heart health.
4. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Chickpeas are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and manganese. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and preventing nutrient deficiencies.
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 cloves of peeled garlic
- 1 cup of cooked chickpeas
- 2 tbsp of tahini
- 2 tbsp of lemon juice
- 2 tbsp of unsweetened, plained non-dairy yogurt
- 1 tsp of salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp of ground cumin
- 1/8 tsp of smoked paprika or chipotle chili powder
- 1 pinch of smoked salt
How to Make the Baba Ganoush Recipe with Chickpeas?
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Halve the eggplant longitudinally. Brush the exposed flesh with olive oil. Place the eggplant halves, cut side down, on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the eggplant for 25 minutes, or until tender and collapsed. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Once cool enough to handle, discard any accumulated liquid. Using a spoon, scrape the tender flesh away from the skin and discard the skin.
- In a food processor, combine the roasted eggplant, garlic, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pulse the mixture until well-combined and relatively smooth, retaining a slight texture.
- Transfer the dip to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or other herbs, if desired.
- Serve the dip with pita bread and fresh vegetables.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Now that you have made your delicious baba ganoush with chickpeas, it’s time to serve it up! Here are some suggestions for pairing and serving your baba ganoush.
Firstly, consider pairing your baba ganoush with some fresh vegetables such as carrot sticks or warm pita bread, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips. The creamy texture of the baba ganoush pairs perfectly with the crunchiness of the veggies.
If you’re looking for a heartier meal, try serving your baba ganoush as a side dish with grilled lamb or chicken. The grilled meat’s smoky flavors complement the baba ganoush’s earthy flavors.
For a light and refreshing salad, mix your baba ganoush with some chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley. Drizzle with some olive oil and lemon juice for a zesty kick.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using your baba ganoush as a spread on a sandwich or wrap. It adds a unique and flavorful twist to your usual lunch routine.
No matter how you choose to serve it, baba ganoush with chickpeas is sure to impress your guests with its rich and creamy texture and bold flavors. Enjoy!
Storing and Preservation
I always make sure to store my baba ganoush with chickpeas in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. This helps to keep it fresh for up to 5 days.
If you want to keep your baba ganoush longer, you can also freeze it. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you are ready to use your frozen baba ganoush, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and stir it well before serving.
It is important to note that the texture of the baba ganoush may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will remain the same. So, if you are someone who doesn’t mind a slightly different texture, freezing is a great option for preserving your baba ganoush with chickpeas.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed reading about my baba ganoush recipe with chickpeas! I had a lot of fun experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to come up with this delicious dish.
One thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a dip with pita chips or veggies, or use it as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. It’s also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet since eggplant is the star ingredient.
I found that using chickpeas in the recipe added a nice texture and flavor to the baba ganoush. It also made the dish more filling, which is great if you’re serving it as a main course.
Overall, I highly recommend giving this baba ganoush recipe with chickpeas a try. It’s easy to make, healthy, and delicious!
As a side note, this dip pairs perfectly with lamb ribs. You really should be trying it!
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