This delish baba ganoush recipe is the healthiest low-cal dip to pair with snacks EVER

Anyone who is working towards being healthy knows that it is best to avoid any foods with preservatives. So, what do we pair our snacks with, then? Most dips available in the market are laden with preservatives that won’t just affect our weight—but also our overall health. But, at the same time, it is no fun to eat snacks without adding some zing to it with dips.

That’s when you can rely on the Mediterranean cuisine to offer the healthiest dips! Baba ganoush is one of the many dips it offers and if you want a smoky, smooth dip then this one is definitely what you’re looking for. What’s more, it is vegan and low in calories.

Made out of eggplant aka brinjal or baingan, it is often called the lesser-known cousin of hummus but truly carries its own unique taste. It is extremely healthy and super easy to make which means that you will have a dip ready in just about 30 minutes or less!

You can pair it with your platters consisting of roasted foods such as mushrooms or chicken but also have it with raw vegetables such as carrots when you’re looking at munching something absolutely natural.

Things you will need:

1 brinjal
5 to 6 crushed cloves garlic
3 to 4 tbsp tahini
¼ cup lemon juice
2 to 3 tbsp olive oil
A pinch of chilli flakes (optional)
Salt to taste
Cumin powder to taste (optional)

Also, read: Holistic lifestyle coach Luke Coutinho shares 5 healthy dip recipes for your 5 PM hunger pangs

Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Start by roasting the brinjal. Now, most of us know how to do it over the flame. It is, in fact, the first step when we’re preparing baingan ka bharta. Hence, you can simply prick it with a fork and start the process. It will barely take 10 to 20 minutes. Please note: Those who find it dangerous and messy, you can always use the oven at 200°C. It will take slightly longer but the result will be the same.

2. Once roasted, ensure that you peel off the skin once it has cooled down to a temperature where you can hold it.

3. Now, add garlic along with tahini, salt and olive oil to a blender, along with the roasted brinjal.

Please note: Tahini is a paste made out of sesame seeds and can easily be found in the market. However, if you don’t have it, you can prepare it before you start off with this recipe. You will need to roast about a cup of sesame seeds till they turn golden brown. Proceed to blend it with some water and olive oil for a smooth texture.

4. Blend all the ingredients until you achieve a smooth paste. Add in the lemon juice and blend again. You can always add in more olive oil for the right consistency. Add the chilli flakes and cumin powder if you want a certain zing to it. Pulse till you’re happy with the texture.

Also, listen:

Some people like their baba ganoush to be as smooth and creamy as hummus but some prefer it to be chunky. In the end, remember: it’s your choice.

Here’s what makes this recipe exceptionally healthy
The star ingredient of this recipe, which is eggplant, can actually also have several health benefits for you. It is rich in folate, vitamin C and K along with a healthy amount of potassium which can have a positive effect on your health. It is rich in anthocyanins which is a pigment with antioxidant properties that can help you fight damage caused by free radicals. The rich content of fibre ensures your digestive health stays on track.

This recipe demands a decently good amount of olive oil which also comes with its own health benefits. A powerhouse of good fats, it is a preferred edible oil because it can take care of heart health, reduce the risk of unhealthy weight gain and is full of antioxidants that further strengthen your health.

Try it out. We promise you’ll love it!