Description
Savory Lebanese Fattet Betenjan dazzles with layers of crispy pita, roasted eggplant, and creamy yogurt sauce. Fragrant spices and toasted pine nuts elevate this classic Middle Eastern dish, inviting you to savor each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup pita chips, crushed
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tahini
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish and Toppings:
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Roast eggplant cubes at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, tossing them in olive oil on a baking sheet until they become tender and develop golden-brown edges.
- Create a creamy yogurt sauce by whisking together yogurt, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and salt until the mixture reaches a smooth, consistent texture.
- Arrange the roasted eggplant pieces as the base layer in a serving dish, creating an even foundation.
- Gently cascade the prepared yogurt mixture over the eggplant, ensuring complete and thorough coverage of the roasted vegetables.
- Enhance the dish’s visual appeal and texture by generously sprinkling toasted pine nuts, freshly chopped parsley, and crispy crushed pita chips across the surface.
- Optional: Scatter pomegranate seeds for an additional burst of color and tangy flavor.
- Serve immediately for optimal temperature and crispness, or refrigerate briefly for a cool, refreshing variation of the salad.
Notes
- Roast eggplant in a single layer to ensure even browning and prevent steaming, which helps achieve a crispy exterior and creamy interior.
- Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt to create a richer, creamier sauce that complements the smoky roasted eggplant perfectly.
- Customize the dish by adding grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein, making it suitable for meat-lovers and vegetarians alike.
- Allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld together and enhance the overall taste profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg