The flavor of this woodsy, earthy Middle Eastern dip comes from cooking eggplants on a grill or a gas stovetop until the skin blackens and the flesh collapses in on itself. Alternatively, you can broil the eggplants in the oven, turning occasionally, until charred and tender. They might not end up as smoky, but the final dip will still taste great. Check out our other recipes for a truly flavorful Lebanese feast, and read more about Kamal Mouzawak, the restaurateur-hotelier-humanitarian behind the recipe.
Recipe information
Yield
4 servings
Ingredients
2
⅓
¼
3
Need to make a substitution?
Preparation
Step 1
Remove grate and prepare a charcoal grill for medium heat (coals should be covered with ash and glowing red with no black remaining). Place eggplants directly on coals and cook, turning occasionally, until skins are completely charred and flesh collapses, 15–20 minutes. (Alternatively, you can char over a gas burner on medium-high heat, turning occasionally with tongs, 12–15 minutes.) Transfer to a colander set over a medium bowl. Let cool 15 minutes.
Step 2
Remove skins from eggplants (it’s okay if some bits of charred skin don’t come off). Transfer flesh to a sieve set over a bowl and let drain 10 minutes.
Step 3
Transfer eggplant flesh to a food processor; add tahini, lemon juice, and 3 Tbsp. oil and process until creamy; season dip with salt.
Step 4
Transfer dip to a bowl and top with pomegranate seeds and black sesame seeds; drizzle with more oil.
Step 5
Do Ahead: Dip can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.