Mutabbal vs Baba Ghanouj

Did you know that what is often served as baba ghanouj in restaurants in America is actually mutabbal? When you order baba ghanouj, you might receive a creamy roasted eggplant dish mixed with yogurt, tahini, garlic, lemon, and garnished with chopped parsley and olive oil, which is known as mutabbal in Syria.

The authentic Syrian baba ghanouj, however, is a delightful and smoky appetizer that features roasted eggplant mixed with a variety of fresh ingredients. Here's an inviting recipe for it:

Authentic Syrian Baba Ghanouj Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• 1 small tomato, finely chopped

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 small green pepper, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley

• 1 ½ tablespoons chopped walnuts

• 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt to taste

• Olive oil for garnishing

• Fresh pomegranate seeds and parsley for garnishing

Instructions:

1. Pierce the eggplants with a fork in several places and roast them over an open flame or on a grill until they are soft inside and charred outside (about 10-15 minutes). Allow them to cool, then peel off the burnt skin.

2. Chop the roasted eggplant into small pieces and mix it with the garlic, tomato, parsley, walnuts, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, onion, and green pepper. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and parsley before serving.

This dish is perfect for a meze platter or as a side dish with fried kibbeh or barbecued meats, showcasing the rich, smoky flavor of roasted eggplant complemented by the fresh and tangy ingredients.

Fun Fact

Do you know what "baba ghanouj" means in Arabic?

• Baba (بابا): Father or daddy

• Ghanouj (غنوج): Pampered or spoiled

So, the name "Baba Ghanouj" translates to "pampered daddy" in Arabic. This charming name is said to refer to an ancient, affectionate figure who loved this dish, thus becoming a beloved culinary icon.

Saha w Hana!

From The Jasmine Tree Kitchen with Love, Commemorating the National Culinary Art Month!

Creamy Mushroom Chicken

Surprisingly a super delicious and fast dish. It's gluten-free and suitable for specific diets!

From My Kitchen to Yours

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or tenders

• 2 cups sliced mushroom

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 diced cloves of garlic

• Salt, pepper, allspice, and paprika

• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese

• 2 tbs butter

• 2 tbs olive oil

Preparation:

• Season the chicken with garlic, salt, pepper, allspice, and paprika

• Sauté the chicken with butter and oil. 4 minutes on each side

• Cover and turn the stove to low heat for 5 minutes

• Add the mushrooms, mix, and cover again for 5 minutes

• Add the heavy cream

• Add the cheese and cover for 2 minutes

Optional: serve with rice or pasta

Bon Appetite

Potato Soup

This rich and creamy soup is delicious and comforting. The soup that will draw a smile on everyone's face is quick and easy to prepare.

From My Kitchen to Yours

ingredients:

• Ten peeled potato, cut into big pieces

• 2 sticks of leek, cleaned and chopped into big pieces

• 5 peeled cloves of garlic

• 1 peeled and chopped onion

• 1 cup of heavy cream

• 1/2 lb ground beef or turkey bacon

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• finely chopped chives

• 3 tbs butter

• Salt & white pepper

• 8-10 cups of water or chicken broth

Preparation:

• Sauté garlic and onions with butter

• Add potato, leeks, water, salt, and pepper and boil on medium heat for 25 minutes.

• Bring to a simmer

• Brown the ground meat (or the turkey bacon), then add salt, pepper, and all spices.

• Blend the mixture until it's creamy

• Stir in the heavy cream and the cheddar cheese

• Garnish your serving dish with ground beef or turkey bacon and chives

Bon Appétit