What is the Difference Between Baba Ganoush and Moutabal

The main difference between baba ganoush and moutabal is that baba ganoush is smoother and creamier, while moutabal is spicier than baba ganoush.

Baba Ganoush and Moutabal are two popular eggplant-based dips from the Middle East. Although they share many similarities, there are some differences in the way of preparation and seasoning. Both dips require charring of the eggplant and the addition of tahini, but the region and recipe can influence the flavor profile.

Key Areas Covered  

1. What is Baba Ganoush 
     – Definition, Ingredients, Flavor
2. What is Moutabal
     – Definition, Ingredients, Flavor
3. Similarities Between Baba Ganoush and Moutabal
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Baba Ganoush and Moutabal
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Baba Ganoush, Moutabal

What is Baba Ganoush

Baba ganoush is a creamy dip made by mixing roasted or charred eggplant with nutty tahini, garlic, citrus, and spices. Traditionally, people bake or broil the eggplant over an open flame to achieve a smoky flavor and tender texture. In fact, it is a popular meze or starter in regional cuisine and is popular as a side dish or dip for pita bread.

How To Make Baba Ganoush

To cook the eggplant, grill it over medium-high heat or roast it in the oven at 425 F until it is fully cooked and soft. After cooking, allow the eggplant to cool and drain well. Remove the skin and mix the eggplant with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and optional ingredients like Greek yogurt, sumac, or red pepper flakes. Then, chill in the fridge for a few minutes and serve on a plate or bowl, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and topped with toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley.

What is Moutabal

Moutabal, also known as mutabal or muttabal, is a Middle Eastern dip made from eggplant. It’s popular for its smoky flavor, achieved by charring the eggplant over an open flame. Once charred, the eggplant is peeled and mixed with tahini and other ingredients to create a creamy dip, typically served with pita bread. 

People throughout the Middle East and Armenia enjoy the taste of moutabal. While the ingredients are similar to baba ganoush, it is not the same dish. Moutabel has a spicier profile than baba ganoush.

When making both baba ganoush and moutabal, it’s important to choose the right eggplant. To ensure you pick the best one, look for a bright-colored eggplant without any brown spots. Additionally, the eggplant should feel firm and heavy for its size. Keep in mind that smaller eggplants typically have better taste and texture than larger ones, which are often spongier and have more seeds.

Similarities Between Baba Ganoush and Moutabal

• Both baba ganoush and moutabal are eggplant dips prepared with charred eggplant.
• Moreover, they are popular Middle Eastern dishes.
• Tahini is a key component in both dips.
• In addition, the dips have a smoky flavor.
• They are generally popular as appetizers or snacks with pita bread.

Difference Between Baba Ganoush and Moutabal

Definition

Baba ganoush is a creamy dip made by mixing roasted or charred eggplant with nutty tahini, garlic, citrus, and spices. Moutabal is a similar dish, but it is made with roasted eggplant, yogurt, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice.

Yogurt and Tahini

Moutabal always uses yogurt and tahini, whereas baba ganoush doesn’t.

Ingredients

Baba ganoush typically has fewer ingredients than moutabal, which may include yogurt or additional spices.

Spice Level

Moutabal tends to be spicier than baba ganoush.

Consistency

The consistency of baba ganoush is smoother and creamier than moutabal.

Conclusion

Baba Ganoush and Moutabal are two popular eggplant dips from the Middle East. The main difference between baba ganoush and moutabal is that baba ganoush is smoother and creamier, while moutabal is spicier than baba ganoush.

Reference:

1. “Easy Baba Ganoush Recipe.” The Mediterranean Dish.
2. Fayed, Saad. “Lebanese Moutabel (Spicy Eggplant Dip).” The Spruce Eats.

Image Courtesy:

1. “20160805-AMS-LSC-0084” By U.S. Department of Agriculture (Public Domain) via Flickr
2. “Moutabal at Ali Baba, Cambridge” By Kake (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) via Flickr