Creamy Eggplant & Caramelized Onion Dip (Kashke Bademjan)

Steps

1. Sprinkle your eggplant with salt on both sides and place in a colander in the sink to drain excess water. After 10 minutes, lightly rinse with water and then press dry between two towels.

2. Preheat oven to high broil (or medium if you have the option) and position a rack at the top of the oven.

3. Arrange eggplant rounds on a baking sheet drizzle with olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. Roast for 5-7 minutes, turning once or twice until eggplant is softened and golden brown. Remove from pan and let cool to the touch.

4. While eggplant is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2-3 Tbsp olive oil. Add onion and stir often until caramelized – turn heat to low if browning too quickly. Add minced garlic in the last few minutes so it doesn’t burn. Set aside.

5. Peel away the skin of the eggplant (if a little is left that’s OK) and add flesh to a mixing bowl. It should be soft and tender. Add onion-garlic mixture and mash with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. OPTIONAL: Add 1/4 cup Greek yogurt and stir once more – this makes the dip ultra creamy, but is not necessary if vegan or dairy intolerant.

7. Serve immediately with pita, toasted baguette, or assorted veggies. Best when eaten fresh, but it will keep in the fridge covered for a couple of days.