Popular Lebanese Dips: Hummus, Baba Ghanoush, and More

Lebanese cuisine is beloved for its rich flavours, aromatic spices, and wholesome ingredients. A staple of Lebanese dining is the mezze, a selection of small dishes that often feature a variety of dips. These dips are not only delicious but also offer a perfect balance of textures and flavours, making them an essential part of the Lebanese dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a Lebanese feast or enjoying a casual meal, these popular dips, including hummus and baba ghanoush, are sure to enhance your table. Explore some of the most popular Lebanese dips, hummus, baba ghanoush, and more at Arabella Newtown.

The Ubiquitous Hummus: A Classic Lebanese Dip

Hummus is arguably the most famous Lebanese dip and is enjoyed worldwide for its creamy texture and satisfying taste. Made from chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, and garlic, hummus is a nutritious and versatile dip that can be paired with various dishes or enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients and Preparation of Hummus

Hummus is relatively simple to prepare, and its key ingredients are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chickpeas are rich in protein and fibre, while tahini adds a creamy consistency and a dose of healthy fats. The combination of lemon juice and garlic gives hummus its distinctive tangy and slightly sharp flavour.

To prepare hummus, chickpeas are boiled until soft, then blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Olive oil is often drizzled on top for added richness, and paprika or cumin can be sprinkled for a hint of spice. Hummus is typically served with pita bread but can also be paired with fresh vegetables, grilled meats, or even as a spread on sandwiches.

Nutritional Benefits of Hummus

In addition to its irresistible flavour, hummus offers several health benefits. Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making hummus a great option for vegetarians and vegans. The fibre content in chickpeas helps with digestion, while tahini provides essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and healthy fats. Olive oil, often used in hummus, adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats to the mix, making hummus both a delicious and nutritious choice.

Baba Ghanoush: Smoky and Flavourful Eggplant Dip

Baba ghanoush is another popular Lebanese dip, loved for its smoky flavour and creamy texture. Made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, baba ghanoush offers a slightly more complex flavour profile than hummus, with its smoky undertones and velvety texture.

Ingredients and Preparation of Baba Ghanoush

The key ingredient in baba ghanoush is eggplant, which is roasted or grilled until the skin is charred and the flesh becomes soft. This roasting process is what gives baba ghanoush its signature smoky flavour. Once the eggplant is cooked, the flesh is scooped out and blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Some recipes also include a dash of cumin or paprika for added depth of flavour.

Baba ghanoush is usually served with pita bread, but it can also be enjoyed as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fresh salads. Like hummus, it’s a versatile dip that can be incorporated into various dishes or simply enjoyed as part of a mezze spread.

Health Benefits of Baba Ghanoush

Eggplant is the star of baba ghanoush, and it brings a variety of health benefits to the table. Eggplants are low in calories and high in fibre, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. They are also rich in antioxidants, particularly nasunin, which helps protect the body’s cells from damage. Additionally, the use of tahini and olive oil in baba ghanoush adds healthy fats and nutrients like calcium and vitamin E.

Other Popular Lebanese Dips

In addition to hummus and baba ghanoush, Lebanese cuisine offers a range of other delightful dips that are perfect for mezze platters or as accompaniments to main dishes. Here are a few more popular Lebanese dips worth trying.

Labneh: Creamy and Tangy Yoghourt Dip

Labneh is a thick and creamy dip made from strained yoghourt, and it has a tangy flavour similar to Greek yoghourt but with a thicker consistency. It’s typically served with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of za’atar (a Middle Eastern herb blend). Labneh is a refreshing dip that pairs well with pita bread or fresh vegetables.

Muhammara: A Spicy Red Pepper and Walnut Dip

Muhammara is a rich and slightly spicy dip made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, garlic, and olive oil. The sweetness of the red peppers is balanced by the nuttiness of the walnuts and the subtle heat from chilli flakes or paprika. Muhammara is a perfect addition to any mezze spread and goes well with grilled meats or as a topping for sandwiches.

Tzatziki: A Refreshing Cucumber and Yogurt Dip

While tzatziki is often associated with Greek cuisine, it is also popular in Lebanese cooking. Made from yoghourt, cucumber, garlic, and fresh herbs like dill or mint, tzatziki is a cooling and refreshing dip that complements spicy dishes or grilled meats. It’s also an excellent side for kebabs or falafel.

Lebanese dips are an essential part of the cuisine, offering a variety of flavours and textures that can enhance any meal. From the creamy and tangy hummus to the smoky baba ghanoush, these dips are versatile, healthy, and delicious. Other popular dips like labneh, muhammara, and tzatziki further enrich the mezze experience, providing something for every palate. Whether you’re enjoying a full Lebanese feast or looking for a simple snack, these dips are sure to delight your taste buds and bring a taste of Lebanon to your table.