Photo: Caitlin Bensel
This classic Middle Eastern eggplant dip is known for its smoky flavor and creamy texture. The smoke here comes from four components: charred eggplant, green onions, garlic, and a dash of smoked paprika. To grill the garlic, pull the cloves off in a clump from the bulb so the bundle won’t fall through the grates. Don’t worry if the clump contains more than 4 cloves—you’ll surely find a use for the roasty-toasty extras. Serve with pita bread wedges, pita chips, or crudités.
How to Make It
Step 1
Preheat a gas grill to medium-high (about 450°F) on one side, or push hot coals to one side of a charcoal grill. Place eggplants, green onions, and garlic on grate over hot side of grill. Grill onions 3 minutes or until well marked and just tender, turning occasionally. Remove from grill; chop into 1/2-inch pieces. Grill garlic 4 minutes or until mostly blackened, turning occasionally. Remove from grill; cool 10 minutes. Peel. Grill eggplants over direct heat 10 minutes or until skin is well charred, turning occasionally; move to cool side of grill. Cover grill; cook eggplant 20 minutes or until completely tender. Cool 10 minutes.
Step 2
Remove eggplant skin and scoop flesh into a medium saucepan; discard skin. Place pan over medium heat; cook eggplant 10 minutes or until liquid has evaporated, stirring occasionally. Place eggplant and garlic in a food processor or blender. Add juice, tahini, salt, and pepper; process until smooth. With processor on, slowly add oil; process until well blended and creamy. Place eggplant mixture in a serving bowl. Top with, or stir in, chopped green onions. Sprinkle with paprika and parsley.
