If you’re in search of an authentic mutabal recipe, you’ve come to the right place. Mutabal is a delicious Middle Eastern dip made with roasted eggplant, offering a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with pita bread or fresh vegetables. Today, we’re going to explore a unique variation of this classic recipe – mutabal zaatar recipe – which brings in the bold and aromatic taste of zaatar to elevate this beloved dish. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can prepare this nutritious and flavorful dip right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients and Equipment (Time Required: 10 minutes for prep + 30 minutes for roasting)
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants (about 800g)
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons zaatar spice blend
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: pomegranate seeds, fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipment:
- Baking tray
- Fork
- Sharp knife
- Medium mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Food processor (optional)
Preparation Time
- Total Preparation Time: 40 minutes
- Roasting Eggplant: 30 minutes
How to Make Mutabal Zaatar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Eggplants (30 minutes)
The first step in making this mutabal recipe is roasting the eggplants to bring out their smoky flavor. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking tray, flesh side down.
- Poke the skin of each eggplant with a fork several times to allow steam to escape.
- Roast the eggplants for about 30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and the skin is charred.
Step 2: Cool and Scoop Out the Eggplant Flesh (10 minutes)
Once the eggplants are done roasting, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for 10 minutes.
- After they have cooled slightly, use a spoon to scoop out the flesh of the eggplants and place it into a mixing bowl.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients (5 minutes)
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the eggplant flesh with the following ingredients:
- Add 3 tablespoons of tahini, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 3 cloves of minced garlic.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of zaatar spice blend to enhance the traditional flavor of this mutabal recipe.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are combined and smooth. If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can use a food processor for this step.
The Unique Touch: Zaatar in Mutabal
Adding zaatar to the mutabal recipe is what sets this variation apart. Zaatar is a Middle Eastern spice blend made from dried thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and sometimes other herbs, providing a tangy and earthy note to the dip. Its bold flavor complements the smokiness of the roasted eggplant perfectly, giving the dish a unique and memorable taste.
Serving Suggestions for Mutabal Zaatar
Garnish with a Twist
To enhance your mutabal zaatar recipe, garnish it with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle some pomegranate seeds for a pop of sweetness and color. Fresh parsley also makes a great garnish, adding a fresh herbal touch.
Serve with Fresh or Toasted Pita Bread
Serve your mutabal with freshly baked or toasted pita bread. You can also serve it alongside sliced vegetables like cucumber, carrots, or bell peppers, making it a perfect healthy appetizer or side dish.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
- Falafel: This mutabal zaatar recipe pairs wonderfully with falafel for a complete Middle Eastern meal.
- Grilled Meats: Serve it as a side dip with grilled chicken or lamb for added flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Mutabal
Choosing the Right Eggplant
For the best results, choose large eggplants that feel heavy for their size, with shiny and unblemished skin. The fresher the eggplant, the better the flavor of your mutabal recipe.
Get the Smoky Flavor
To add an extra smoky flavor to your mutabal, you can char the eggplants over an open flame on your gas stove before roasting them in the oven. This step isn’t necessary, but it does provide a depth of flavor that is truly authentic.
Adjusting the Consistency
If your mutabal is too thick, add a bit more lemon juice or olive oil to achieve the desired consistency. If it’s too runny, adding a bit more tahini can help thicken it up.
Nutritional Information
This mutabal zaatar recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Eggplants are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while tahini provides healthy fats and protein. By adding zaatar, you also get the benefits of thyme, which is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Calories: Approximately 150 calories per serving
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 3g
Common Questions About Mutabal
Is Mutabal Different from Baba Ganoush?
Yes, mutabal and baba ganoush are similar but have some distinct differences. Mutabal includes tahini and is creamier, while baba ganoush often contains additional vegetables like bell peppers and may or may not include tahini. The addition of zaatar makes this mutabal recipe unique and adds a bold twist to the traditional dip.
How Long Can You Store Mutabal?
You can store mutabal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors develop even more over time, making it a great make-ahead dish for parties or family gatherings.
Can I Make Mutabal Without Tahini?
While tahini is a key ingredient in a traditional mutabal recipe, you can make it without tahini if you prefer. You can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a different flavor and consistency, although it will alter the taste and texture.
FAQs About Zaatar
What is Zaatar?
Zaatar is a popular Middle Eastern spice mix that typically contains thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. It has a tangy, earthy flavor that complements many dishes, especially in this mutabal zaatar recipe.
Can I Use Homemade Zaatar?
Absolutely! If you can’t find zaatar at your local store, you can easily make it at home by combining dried thyme, sumac, and toasted sesame seeds. A homemade blend can add a personal touch to your mutabal recipe.
Adding Zaatar to Other Recipes
Zaatar is not limited to this mutabal zaatar recipe. You can use it to season roasted vegetables, sprinkle it over salads, or even mix it with olive oil as a dip for bread. Its versatility makes it a fantastic addition to any kitchen.
Mutabal Recipe Variations
Spicy Mutabal
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a small red chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your mutabal. The spiciness pairs well with the smoky eggplant and earthy zaatar.
Herbed Mutabal
Add fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to give your mutabal a fresh and aromatic touch. The herbs enhance the flavor and make the dip even more vibrant.
Pomegranate Mutabal
Adding pomegranate seeds not only makes the mutabal visually appealing but also provides a burst of sweetness that complements the smoky and earthy flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Mutabal Zaatar Recipe
This mutabal zaatar recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dip. It’s a fantastic addition to a mezze platter, a great spread for sandwiches, or a flavorful side to any Mediterranean meal. The bold flavors of zaatar take this classic recipe to a whole new level, adding complexity and depth that will impress anyone who tries it.
Make this delicious mutabal recipe today and experience the wonderful flavors of the Middle East right at your table.