Recipes Tagged: Mediterranean

Displaying all recipes that include the tag: Mediterranean.

Title ↕	Description ↕	Tags ↕
Creamy Baba Ganoush Dip	A smoky and luxurious eggplant dip made with tahini, garlic, and ...	Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Vegetarian	{"title":"Creamy Baba Ganoush Dip","description":"A smoky and luxurious eggplant dip made with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, perfect for serving with pita.","full_ingredient_list":["2 small Italian or globe eggplants","1\/4 cup tahini paste","1 lemon, juiced","1 garlic clove, minced","1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt (optional)","1 teaspoon sumac","3\/4 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes (optional)","Kosher salt","Black pepper","Extra virgin olive oil","Toasted pine nuts (optional)","Fresh parsley (optional)"],"components":[{"name":"Eggplant Preparation","ingredients":[{"name":"Italian eggplants","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"Choose small sizes for less bitterness."}],"tools_and_equipment":["Gas burner or grill","Tongs","Knife","Colander"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Grill or bake the eggplant. If using a burner or grill, turn on medium-high heat and char the eggplant on all sides until tender (about 20 minutes). If baking, preheat oven to 425\u00b0F, halve the eggplant, and roast flesh side down for 40 minutes until tender.","tips":"Charring the eggplant enhances the smoky flavor."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Place the cooked eggplant in a colander. Cut the eggplant to release juices and allow to cool and drain excess water.","tips":"Proper draining prevents a watery dip."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Peel off the eggplant skin once cooled. Remove and discard skin and stems.","tips":"A few bits of charred skin can add flavor."}]},{"name":"Dip Assembly","ingredients":[{"name":"Tahini paste","quantity":"1\/4 cup"},{"name":"Lemon juice","quantity":"From 1 lemon"},{"name":"Garlic","quantity":"1 clove, minced"},{"name":"Greek yogurt","quantity":"1 tablespoon","substitutions":["Omit for vegan version"]},{"name":"Kosher salt","quantity":"To taste"},{"name":"Black pepper","quantity":"To taste"},{"name":"Sumac","quantity":"1 teaspoon"},{"name":"Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes","quantity":"3\/4 teaspoon","substitutions":["Omit if desired"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Mixing bowl","Wooden spoon"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Combine roasted eggplant flesh with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and optional Greek yogurt in a bowl. Season with salt, pepper, sumac, and Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes. Mix gently with a wooden spoon.","tips":"Keep the mixture rustic; avoid using a food processor for best texture."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Chill the baba ganoush in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour to thicken and meld flavors.","tips":"Chilling enhances the dip's flavor and consistency."}]},{"name":"Serving","ingredients":[{"name":"Extra virgin olive oil","quantity":"To drizzle"},{"name":"Toasted pine nuts","quantity":"For garnish","substitutions":["Omit if desired"]},{"name":"Fresh parsley","quantity":"Chopped, for garnish","substitutions":["Omit if desired"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Serving dish"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Transfer the baba ganoush to a serving dish. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and garnish with toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley if desired.","tips":"Serve with pita wedges or chips for a traditional presentation."}]}],"prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"20 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 35 minutes","servings":"6 or more people","tags":["Mediterranean","Middle Eastern","Vegetarian"],"notes":"For a vegan version, simply omit the Greek yogurt. Baba ganoush can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days."}
Creamy Homemade Hummus	Make this easy, smooth hummus recipe with chickpeas, tahini, and ...	Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean	{"title":"Creamy Homemade Hummus","description":"Make this easy, smooth hummus recipe with chickpeas, tahini, and lemon for a tasty homemade alternative to store-bought versions.","full_ingredient_list":["1 (15oz) can chickpeas, drained or 1 \u00bd cups (250g) cooked chickpeas","1\/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)","1\/4 cup (60ml) well-stirred tahini","1 small garlic clove, minced","2 tablespoons (30ml) extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving","1\/2 teaspoon ground cumin","Salt to taste","2 to 3 tablespoons (45ml) cold water or aquafaba","Dash ground paprika, sumac, or Za\u2019atar for serving"],"components":[{"name":"Hummus Base","ingredients":[{"name":"chickpeas, drained","quantity":"1 (15oz) can or 1 \u00bd cups (250g) cooked chickpeas","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fresh lemon juice","quantity":"1\/4 cup (60ml)","preparation_notes":"juice of 1 large lemon","substitutions":[]},{"name":"tahini","quantity":"1\/4 cup (60ml)","preparation_notes":"well-stirred","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic clove","quantity":"1 small, minced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"extra-virgin olive oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons (30ml), plus more for serving","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cold water or aquafaba","quantity":"2 to 3 tablespoons (45ml)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ground cumin","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ground paprika, sumac, or Za\u2019atar","quantity":"Dash for serving","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Food processor","Spatula","Airtight container"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In the bowl of a food processor, combine the tahini and lemon juice and process for 1 minute. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl, then process for 30 seconds more to whip the tahini.","tips":"Whipping the tahini first makes the hummus smoother."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and salt to the whipped tahini and lemon juice. Process for 30 seconds, scrape the sides, then process until well blended.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Drain chickpeas and add half to the food processor, processing for 1 minute. Scrape the sides, add remaining chickpeas, and process until smooth.","tips":"For smoother texture, pause to scrape down the bowl often."},{"step_number":4,"description":"If hummus is too thick, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of cold water or aquafaba while the processor runs until desired consistency.","tips":"Aquafaba can enhance the fluffiness of the hummus."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle of paprika, sumac, or Za'atar.","tips":"Add more lemon juice or cumin to suit your taste."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Store hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze with a thin layer of olive oil on top for a month.","tips":"Freezing with a layer of olive oil helps maintain freshness."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"None","total_time":"10 minutes","servings":"6","tags":["Vegan","Vegetarian","Gluten-Free","Dairy-Free","Middle Eastern","Mediterranean"],"notes":"For extra smooth hummus, you can peel the chickpeas before processing, though it's not necessary."}
Classic Greek Avgolemono Sauce	This versatile Greek sauce, made with eggs and lemon, can enhance...	Greek, sauce, lemon, egg, Mediterranean, easy, quick, soup enhancer	{"title":"Classic Greek Avgolemono Sauce","description":"This versatile Greek sauce, made with eggs and lemon, can enhance a variety of dishes including soups, meats, dolmades, and fish. Its creamy texture and vibrant lemon flavor make it a staple in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.","short_description":"Versatile Greek egg and lemon sauce for enhancing soups and meats.","full_ingredient_list":["3 eggs","2 lemons, juiced","1 cup hot broth from your cooking dish","1 teaspoon flour (optional)","Salt and pepper to taste"],"components":[{"name":"Avgolemono Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"eggs","quantity":"3","preparation_notes":"cracked and whisked until frothy","substitutions":[]},{"name":"lemons, juiced","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"hot broth from your cooking dish","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"flour","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"optional","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["whisk","bowl","ladle"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until frothy.","tips":"Ensure the eggs are well-whisked to prevent curdling."},{"step_number":2,"description":"If using, add 1 teaspoon of flour and continue beating.","tips":"Flour can help thicken the sauce, but is optional."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Stop beating and add in the lemon juice.","tips":"Incorporate the lemon juice gradually for even mixing."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Ladle two portions of hot broth from your dish slowly into the egg mixture while stirring continuously to temper the eggs.","tips":"This is crucial to avoid curdling."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Return the Avgolemono mixture to the main dish and stir well.","tips":"Ensure the mixture is well incorporated to thicken the dish naturally."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"N\/A","total_time":"10 minutes","servings":"Varies","tags":["Greek","sauce","lemon","egg","Mediterranean","easy","quick","soup enhancer"],"notes":"Avgolemono sauce must be integrated with a dish that contains enough hot liquid for tempering the eggs.","background":"Avgolemono is a traditional Greek sauce known for its tart and creamy attributes, used widely across Mediterranean cuisine.","dietary_info":["contains eggs"],"flavor_profile":{"sweet":1,"savory":3,"sour":7,"bitter":1,"umami":2},"geographic_region":"Greek","occasion":"Everyday","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":3,"recommended_pairings":["Dolmathes","Chicken Soup","Fish Dishes"]}
Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon Garlic Baked Cod	Enjoy a quick and flavorful Mediterranean dish with this baked co...	Mediterranean, Seafood, Quick	{"title":"Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon Garlic Baked Cod","description":"Enjoy a quick and flavorful Mediterranean dish with this baked cod, featuring a zesty lemon and garlic sauce. Perfectly flaky fish with a hint of spice makes for a delightful meal.","full_ingredient_list":["1.5 lb Cod fillet pieces, 4-6 pieces","1\/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves","5 tbsp fresh lemon juice","5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil","2 tbsp melted butter","5 garlic cloves, minced","1\/3 cup all-purpose flour","1 tsp ground coriander","3\/4 tsp sweet Spanish paprika","3\/4 tsp ground cumin","3\/4 tsp salt","1\/2 tsp black pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Cod Preparation","ingredients":[{"name":"Cod fillet pieces","quantity":"1.5 lb","preparation_notes":"4-6 pieces","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Chopped fresh parsley leaves","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["cilantro"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Oven","Cast iron skillet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Pat the fish dry. Sear each side in a cast iron skillet with olive oil for 2 minutes per side to add color. Remove from heat.","tips":"Use a fish spatula for easy turning."}]},{"name":"Lemon Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"Fresh lemon juice","quantity":"5 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["lime juice"]},{"name":"Extra virgin olive oil","quantity":"5 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["avocado oil"]},{"name":"Melted butter","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["ghee"]},{"name":"Minced garlic cloves","quantity":"5 cloves","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["garlic powder"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Shallow bowl","Whisk"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Mix lemon juice, olive oil, and melted butter in a bowl. Set aside without the garlic.","tips":"Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor."},{"step_number":2,"description":"After searing fish, add minced garlic to the sauce and drizzle over the fish before baking.","tips":"The garlic adds a bold flavor; don't skip it!"}]},{"name":"Flour Coating","ingredients":[{"name":"All-purpose flour","quantity":"1\/3 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["gluten-free flour"]},{"name":"Ground coriander","quantity":"1 tsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["ground cumin"]},{"name":"Sweet Spanish paprika","quantity":"3\/4 tsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["smoked paprika"]},{"name":"Ground cumin","quantity":"3\/4 tsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["curry powder"]},{"name":"Salt","quantity":"3\/4 tsp","preparation_notes":"kosher","substitutions":["sea salt"]},{"name":"Black pepper","quantity":"1\/2 tsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Shallow bowl","Whisk"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a shallow bowl, mix flour, coriander, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.","tips":"Ensure spices are well-blended with the flour."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Dip the fish in the lemon sauce and coat it with the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.","tips":"Coat evenly for a nice crust."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"12 minutes","total_time":"22 minutes","servings":"5 servings","tags":["Mediterranean","Seafood","Quick"],"notes":"Serve with a fresh salad or a Mediterranean side dish for a complete meal. Leftovers should be stored in a glass container and eaten within 2-3 days. Avoid freezing to maintain texture."}
Easy Homemade Harissa Sauce	Harissa is a versatile North African red chile paste or sauce mad...	North African, Mediterranean, spicy, sauce, condiment, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb	{"title":"Easy Homemade Harissa Sauce","description":"Harissa is a versatile North African red chile paste or sauce made from simple ingredients such as chiles, garlic, olive oil, citrus, and warm spices. It is slightly sweet, smoky, tangy, and perfectly spicy without being too hot. This harissa can be made in advance to be used in various dishes.","short_description":"A versatile North African chile paste perfect for adding spice to any dish.","components":[{"name":"Harissa Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"Dried New Mexico chiles","quantity":"7 whole chiles (or a combination with other dried hot chiles such as de arbol or chipotle)","preparation_notes":"Soak and seed","substitutions":["Guajillo chiles"]},{"name":"Roasted red peppers","quantity":"6 ounces or 2 large peppers, jarred","preparation_notes":"Drained","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Tomato paste","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Garlic cloves","quantity":"4 large cloves","preparation_notes":"Peeled","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Caraway seeds","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"Toasted and ground","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Ground coriander","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Ground cumin","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Smoked paprika","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cayenne pepper","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Kosher salt","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Lemon juice","quantity":"2 tablespoons (juice of 1 large lemon)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Extra virgin olive oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons plus more for storage","preparation_notes":"Use quality EVOO","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Food processor"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Soak the dried chiles in hot water for 30 minutes until tender and re-hydrated. Drain and remove stems and seeds.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"In a food processor, combine the chiles with roasted red peppers, garlic, tomato paste, caraway seeds, coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, a pinch of salt, and lemon juice.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Run the processor, drizzling olive oil from the top. Scrape down the sides and process until a paste-like texture is achieved.","tips":"Taste and adjust seasoning."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Transfer to a mason jar and cover with a layer of extra virgin olive oil. Seal and refrigerate.","tips":"Allow flavors to develop for 1-2 days in the fridge for best taste."}]}],"prep_time":"40 minutes","cook_time":"0 minutes","total_time":"40 minutes","servings":"24 tablespoons","tags":["North African","Mediterranean","spicy","sauce","condiment","vegan","gluten-free","dairy-free","low-carb"],"notes":"For best flavor, let the harissa sit in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before using. Each batch can vary in heat depending on the chiles used. Adjust cayenne pepper to taste.","background":"Harissa originated from Tunisia and is used widely across North African and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is often compared to ketchup in its versatility, but with a far more complex flavor profile.","nutrition":{"calories":"13.4","protein":"0.1g","fat":"1.3g","carbohydrates":"0.6g","fiber":"0.2g","sugar":"0.2g"},"serving_suggestions":"Use in soups, stews, on meats, or to spice up hummus or eggs.","storage":"Store in a mason jar in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Freeze in smaller portions for up to 1 month.","dietary_info":["Contains garlic"],"cooking_tips":["Soak peppers thoroughly to ensure easy blending.","Adjust spices to accommodate personal heat preference."],"variations":["Add chipotle chiles for a smoky flavor.","Use fresh chiles instead of dried for a different texture."],"ingredient_spotlight":"The use of New Mexico chiles brings mild heat and a distinct depth of flavor, ideal for controlling the spice level.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":3,"savory":7,"sour":4,"bitter":2,"umami":6},"geographic_region":"North Africa","seasonality":"Best in cooler seasons for warm dishes","sustainability_score":{"score":80,"details":"Use of local and seasonal peppers can enhance sustainability."},"occasion":"Suitable for everyday meals or as a special sauce for gatherings.","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":5,"recommended_pairings":["Grilled meats","Vegetable stews","Hummus"]}
Oven-Roasted Feta Pasta	A hands-off pasta dish with roasted feta and cherry tomatoes to c...	vegetarian, Mediterranean, dinner, easy	{"title":"Oven-Roasted Feta Pasta","description":"A hands-off pasta dish with roasted feta and cherry tomatoes to create a luscious, savory sauce.","full_ingredient_list":["8 ounces cavatappi pasta or pasta of choice","2 pints cherry tomatoes","8 ounce block feta cheese","\u00bd cup extra virgin olive oil","2 garlic cloves, minced","\u00bc cup fresh basil, packed and chopped","\u00bc teaspoon salt","\u00bc teaspoon black pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Baked Feta and Tomato Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"cherry tomatoes","quantity":"2 pints","preparation_notes":"Use fresh cherry or grape tomatoes for best results.","substitutions":["regular whole tomatoes","canned diced tomatoes"]},{"name":"feta cheese","quantity":"8 ounce block","preparation_notes":"Use a block of feta for a better melting consistency.","substitutions":["crumbled feta cheese"]},{"name":"extra virgin olive oil","quantity":"\u00bd cup","preparation_notes":"Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil.","substitutions":["regular olive oil"]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"2 cloves","preparation_notes":"Minced","substitutions":["roasted garlic"]},{"name":"fresh basil","quantity":"\u00bc cup","preparation_notes":"Packed and chopped, plus more for serving.","substitutions":["fresh oregano","fresh thyme"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Rectangular Ceramic 13\u00d79 Baking Dish"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F and prepare oven-safe baking dish.","tips":"Ensure your dish is oven-proof to prevent accidents."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Place cherry tomatoes in the baking dish. Add the olive oil, salt, and pepper and toss to combine.","tips":"Use ripe, firm tomatoes for best results."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Place the block of feta in the center of the dish and coat it with seasoning and olive oil.","tips":"Flip the feta a couple of times for even coating."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Bake for 35 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta is melted.","tips":"Your kitchen will have a delightful aroma once baked."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Add minced garlic and basil leaves as soon as it comes out of the oven.","tips":"Mix quickly to soften the garlic."}]},{"name":"Pasta Preparation","ingredients":[{"name":"cavatappi pasta or pasta of choice","quantity":"8 ounces","preparation_notes":"Cook according to package instructions until al dente.","substitutions":["gluten-free pasta"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Anodized Nonstick Cookware"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve \u00bd cup of cooking liquid.","tips":"The reserved pasta water can help adjust the sauce's consistency."}]},{"name":"Final Assembly","ingredients":[],"tools_and_equipment":[],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Combine cooked pasta with baked feta and tomato mixture.","tips":"Add reserved pasta water if needed to moisten the sauce."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving.","tips":"Serve warm for best taste."}]}],"prep_time":"5 minutes","cook_time":"35 minutes","total_time":"40 minutes","servings":"6 servings","tags":["vegetarian","Mediterranean","dinner","easy"],"notes":"This easy pasta dish can be made with various ingredients to suit both gluten-free and non-vegetarian diets. Adjust herbs and seasonings based on personal preference."}
Silky Mutabal (Eggplant and Tahini Dip)	Mutabal is a creamy, smoky Middle Eastern dip made primarily from...	Middle Eastern, Appetizer, Vegetarian, Vegan option, Gluten-Free, Mediterranean, Snack, Healthy, Make-ahead	{"title":"Silky Mutabal (Eggplant and Tahini Dip)","description":"Mutabal is a creamy, smoky Middle Eastern dip made primarily from charred eggplant blended with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin. This dip, garnished with pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs, offers a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors, making it a perfect appetizer or snack.","short_description":"A creamy and smoky eggplant dip enriched with tahini and spices, perfect for appetizers.","full_ingredient_list":["2 lbs eggplant","2 cloves garlic, minced","1\/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed","3 tbsp tahini","2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (optional)","1 tsp salt","1\/2 tsp cumin","pomegranate seeds for garnish","10 mint leaves, chopped","2 tbsp parsley, chopped","1\/4 tsp dried mint","olive oil"],"components":[{"name":"Eggplant Dip Base","ingredients":[{"name":"eggplant","quantity":"2 lbs","preparation_notes":"Slice lengthwise and brush with olive oil, roast until tender"},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"2 cloves","preparation_notes":"minced"},{"name":"lemon juice","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"freshly squeezed"},{"name":"tahini","quantity":"3 tbsp"},{"name":"plain Greek yogurt","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"optional"},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1 tsp"},{"name":"cumin","quantity":"1\/2 tsp"}],"tools_and_equipment":["oven","baking sheet","parchment paper","knife","brush","colander","sieve","food processor or mixing bowl"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat the oven to 450\u00b0F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Slice eggplants lengthwise and brush the cut sides with olive oil. Place cut side down on the prepared baking sheet."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Roast eggplants for about 35 minutes until the interior is tender and the skin is loose. Then broil for 6-8 minutes to char the skin. Let cool for 5 minutes."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Scoop out the eggplant flesh and place it in a colander to drain for 30 minutes."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Mix the drained eggplant with garlic, lemon juice, tahini, yogurt, salt, and cumin in a bowl or food processor until well combined. Adjust salt to taste if needed."}]},{"name":"Garnishing","ingredients":[{"name":"pomegranate seeds","quantity":"to taste","substitutions":["diced tomatoes"]},{"name":"mint leaves","quantity":"10","preparation_notes":"chopped"},{"name":"parsley","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"chopped"},{"name":"dried mint","quantity":"1\/4 tsp"},{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"for drizzling"}],"tools_and_equipment":[],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Serve the dip in a shallow bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with pomegranate seeds, mint, and parsley."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"45 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 25 minutes","servings":"6","tags":["Middle Eastern","Appetizer","Vegetarian","Vegan option","Gluten-Free","Mediterranean","Snack","Healthy","Make-ahead"],"notes":"If the dip is slightly bitter, adding more salt can balance the flavor. The optional yogurt provides extra creaminess. This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.","background":"Mutabal is a traditional dip enjoyed across the Middle East, known for its smoky flavor derived from roasting eggplant. It is closely related to baba ganoush, though typically uses tahini and fewer ingredients.","nutrition":{"calories":"87","protein":"3g","fat":"4g","carbohydrates":"12g","fiber":"5g","sugar":"6g"},"serving_suggestions":"Pairs well with fresh vegetables or pita chips. Also great as a spread for sandwiches or alongside grilled meats.","storage":"Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months but may have texture changes.","dietary_info":["Vegetarian","Gluten-Free","Vegan option with no yogurt"],"cooking_tips":["Removing the eggplant seeds can help reduce bitterness.","Use high-quality tahini for best results."],"variations":["Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra smokiness.","Include roasted red peppers for a sweeter version."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Tahini adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the dish, making it an essential ingredient.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":8,"sour":5,"bitter":3,"umami":7},"geographic_region":"Middle East","seasonality":"All year round","sustainability_score":{"score":80,"details":"Eggplants and tahini have relatively low environmental impacts, especially when sourced locally."},"occasion":"Casual gatherings, parties, potlucks","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":10,"recommended_pairings":["Serve with Armenian flatbread or pita bread.","Pair with grilled chicken or lamb kabobs."]}