Mutabal (Charred Eggplant Dip) + Video

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 450°F with a rack in the upper third of the oven. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the eggplants lengthwise and brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil. Place them cut side down in the pan.

Step 2

Roast until the interior is very tender and the skin is loose, about 35 minutes. Turn oven to broil and char skin for that smokey flavor, 6-8 minutes. Let rest 5 minutes to cool.

Step 3

Scoop the flesh out of each eggplant, discarding the skins, and place in a colander or sieve over a bowl to drain for 1 hour.

Step 4

Place drained eggplant in either a bowl to mix by hand, or a food processor to mix. Add the garlic, lemon juice, tahini, salt and cumin and mix well. If slightly bitter add more salt to taste.

Step 5

Serve in a shallow bowl with a drizzle of the olive oil and topped with the pomegranate and herbs. Perfect to eat with vegetables and pita for dipping.