Syrian Fried Eggplant with Tahini and Pomegranate (Badinjan Maqli bil Tahini wa Rumman)
A delightful appetizer or side dish, this Syrian specialty features crispy fried eggplant slices generously drizzled with a creamy tahini sauce and sprinkled with vibrant pomegranate seeds and fresh parsley. It's a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Eggplant(about 1 lb total, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
- 1 tbsp Salt(for drawing out moisture)
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour(for dredging)
- 3-4 cups Vegetable oil(for frying)
- 0.5 cup Tahini
- 3 tbsp Lemon juice(freshly squeezed)
- 1 clove Garlic(minced)
- 0.25 cup Water(or more, to thin tahini sauce)
- 0.5 cup Pomegranate seeds(for garnish)
- 0.25 bunch Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer on paper towels. Sprinkle generously with salt and let sit for 20-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse the slices thoroughly under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
- 2
Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each eggplant slice in the flour, shaking off any excess.
💡 Tip: Ensuring the eggplant is very dry helps the flour adhere better. - 3
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add eggplant slices in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack set over paper towels.
- 4
While the eggplant fries, prepare the tahini sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and 1/4 cup of water. Continue whisking, adding more water a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
💡 Tip: The sauce might seize up initially; keep whisking and adding water gradually. - 5
Arrange the fried eggplant slices on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the tahini sauce.
💡 Tip: You can also serve the tahini sauce on the side for dipping. - 6
Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
💡 Tip: For an extra touch, you can add a sprinkle of sumac or a drizzle of olive oil.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature ensures perfectly crisp eggplant.
- ✓If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic clove before mincing it.
- ✓The tahini sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Whisk in a little more water before serving if it has thickened.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of cumin to the tahini sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tahini sauce or sprinkle over the finished dish.