If you're a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, you've probably heard of baba ganoush. This creamy and flavorful dip is made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It's traditionally served with pita bread or vegetables and is a staple in many mezze platters.
The Art of Smoking Eggplant
While baba ganoush is typically made by roasting the eggplant in the oven, we're going to take it to the next level by smoking it on a Traeger grill. Smoking the eggplant adds a unique and smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
But before we get into the smoking process, let's address a common question: should you soak eggplant in salt water before grilling? Many recipes call for salting and rinsing eggplant before cooking it to draw out its bitterness. Brining can be used instead and has the added advantage of helping the eggplant keep its shape when it's cooked, whether your recipe calls for baking, frying, or grilling.
Brining Instructions
- Fill a large bowl with 1 tablespoon salt and about 1/2 cup hot water. Stir until salt dissolves completely.
- Fill the bowl with about 2 quarts of cold water. The water should taste roughly as salty as the ocean.
- Cut the eggplant into the size and shape you need for the recipe.
- Submerge the eggplant pieces in the salted water. Use an upside-down plate or pot lid to weigh down the eggplant so it is fully submerged in the water.
- Let the eggplant sit in the brine for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour.
- Drain the eggplant and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or layers of paper towels.
Once the eggplant is brined and dried, you're ready to smoke it on your Traeger grill.
Smoking the Eggplant on a Traeger Grill
Start by preheating your Traeger grill to 225°F. You can use any type of wood pellets, but I recommend using a mild and fruity wood like apple or cherry for this recipe. The subtle smokiness will complement the flavors of the baba ganoush perfectly.
While the grill is preheating, prepare the eggplant by brushing it with olive oil and seasoning it with salt and pepper. Place the eggplant directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Let it smoke for about 1 hour, or until the eggplant is tender and has a nice smoky flavor.
Once the eggplant is done smoking, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Peel off the skin and discard it. The flesh of the eggplant should be soft and creamy.
Preparing the Smoked Eggplant Baba Ganoush
In a food processor or blender, combine the smoked eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Transfer the baba ganoush to a serving bowl and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and some fresh herbs like parsley or mint. Serve with warm pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Can I use a different type of wood pellet for smoking the eggplant?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of wood pellets to add different flavors to your smoked eggplant. Hickory and mesquite pellets will give the eggplant a stronger and more robust smoky flavor, while fruit woods like apple and cherry will provide a milder and sweeter smoke.
Can I make baba ganoush without smoking the eggplant?
Absolutely! If you don't have a Traeger grill or simply prefer the traditional method, you can roast the eggplant in the oven instead. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the eggplant on a baking sheet. Roast for about 40-45 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the skin is charred. Let it cool, peel off the skin, and proceed with the recipe as usual.
How long can I store the baba ganoush?
Store the baba ganoush in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It may separate slightly, but you can simply give it a stir before serving.
In Conclusion
Smoked eggplant baba ganoush is a delightful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dip. The smoky flavor adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. Whether you choose to smoke the eggplant on a Traeger grill or roast it in the oven, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a unique and delicious baba ganoush experience!
If you want to know other articles similar to Smoked eggplant baba ganoush recipe: a delicious twist on a classic you can visit the Recipes category.
Related Articles