Begin by roasting the eggplant. Place it directly over the flame on your stovetop. Turn it every few minutes to ensure it chars evenly. You’ll want to see the skin blackening and the flesh becoming soft and tender after about 15 minutes.
Once the eggplant is roasted, carefully peel off the burnt skin. You can use a fork or your fingers, but be cautious as it will be hot!
Transfer the roasted eggplant to a mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash it until it reaches your desired consistency.
Now, it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the diced tomato, onion, and minced garlic. Each ingredient brings its unique taste, so don’t skip any of them!
Next, add in the chopped parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined. Taste it at this point; you might want a pinch more salt or lemon juice.
If you’ll be using it, drizzle in the pomegranate molasses for a touch of sweetness, and stir again. This optional ingredient adds a delightful twist to the flavor profile.
Don’t forget to garnish! Serve your Baba Ganoush with a drizzle of olive oil on top and a sprinkle of sumac or fresh mint leaves for an aromatic finish.
Enjoy your Baba Ganoush warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with fresh pita bread or crunchy vegetable sticks.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you have some remaining, let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving again; it tastes even better after a day!