Turkish Dips Eggplant Recipe: 5-Min Delight!

Q: What is the difference between baba ganoush and mutabal eggplant?

While both are creamy eggplant dips, baba ganoush typically uses tahini, lemon, and olive oil without dairy, whereas mutabal adds yogurt for a tangier, richer flavor. Mutabal is smoother and more common in Levantine cuisine.

Q: What are the Turkish dips?

Turkish dips, or meze , include a variety like haydari (yogurt-garlic dip), acılı ezme (spicy tomato dip), and patlıcan ezmesi , a smoky eggplant dip often mixed with yogurt or olive oil. They're served with bread or grilled meats.

Q: What is baba ganoush in Turkish?

In Turkish, baba ganoush is known as babaganuş or babaganuç . However, Turkey’s version is often called patlıcan ezmesi , which is a simpler eggplant dip made with yogurt, lemon, and olive oil.

PUBLISHED BY: Elle

May 1, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Introduction: Turkish Dips Eggplant That Took Me Back to Istanbul

I first tasted Turkish dips eggplant while wandering through an old Istanbul bazaar. One smoky, garlicky bite transported me into the heart of Turkish hospitality. This quick homemade version recreates that flavor with minimal effort.

It pairs beautifully with fresh pita and dishes like this vegetarian cig kofte recipe, giving you a complete mezze platter in minutes. For more regional inspiration, explore these roasting eggplant for dips tips to elevate your flavor even more.

If you’re wondering about health benefits, you’ll be happy to know that eggplant is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with antioxidants and fiber while being low in calories.

Authentic Turkish dips eggplant served in a traditional bowl with grilled pita bread on the side — A rich and creamy Turkish dips eggplant recipe served with warm grilled flatbread – perfect for any Mediterranean mezze spread.

What Makes Turkish Dips Eggplant So Special?

Turkish dips eggplant isn’t just delicious—it’s a reflection of Turkish tradition and Middle Eastern flavor fusion. It’s bold yet balanced, simple yet impressive.

Turkish Dips Eggplant – A Mezze Must-Have

Turkish eggplant dips are a staple in meze spreads. Their smoky, creamy texture makes them ideal with bread, olives, and grilled meats.

Typically served with pita, lavash, or fresh vegetables
Pairs well with yogurt-based sides and pickled vegetables
Balances spice-heavy dishes on the meze table

History of Eggplant Dips in Turkish Culture

Eggplants (patlıcan) have deep roots in Turkish cuisine, dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Turkish eggplant dips evolved from Persian and Mediterranean influences, always emphasizing charred flavor and rustic simplicity.

Fire-roasted eggplants were common in royal kitchens
The dish spread across Anatolia with variations
Still a beloved home recipe across generations

Ingredients for Authentic Turkish Dips Eggplant Recipe

Preparing eggplant by piercing before roasting for Turkish dips eggplant recipe — Pierce each eggplant before roasting to allow steam to escape and enhance cooking.

Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients You’ll Need

2 large eggplants
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes, tahini, chopped parsley

Ingredient Tips for Best Flavor

Choose medium, glossy eggplants for best results
Roast directly over flame or under broiler for maximum smokiness
Drain eggplant flesh to remove excess moisture and bitterness

How to Make Turkish Dips Eggplant: Step-by-Step Guide

Roasting eggplant on an open flame for Turkish dips eggplant recipe — Roast whole eggplants directly over an open flame for authentic Turkish dips eggplant flavor.

Step 1: Roast the Eggplants

Preheat the oven to high broil or prepare a grill
Pierce eggplants with a fork and roast until charred (about 20 minutes)
Let cool, then peel off the skin and discard
Drain the flesh in a strainer for 10 minutes

Step 2: Mix the Dip

Mash the roasted eggplant in a bowl
Add garlic, lemon juice, yogurt, and salt
Mix thoroughly, then slowly drizzle in olive oil
Optional: stir in a spoonful of tahini for richness

Step 3: Chill & Garnish

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes
Top with red pepper flakes and fresh parsley before serving

Serving Ideas for Turkish Dips Eggplant

Smoky Mediterranean eggplant dip with yogurt, garlic, and parsley served in a ceramic bowl — Smooth and smoky Turkish eggplant dip served cold with grilled pita – a healthy and flavorful appetizer for all occasions.

How to Serve It the Traditional Turkish Way

With warm lavash, pita, or crusty bread
Accompanied by olives, cheese, and bulgur wheat pilaf
As a cooling contrast to grilled meats and spicy dishes

Modern Serving Variations with Eggplant Dips

As a sandwich spread with grilled veggies
On top of a grain bowl or with falafel
With crackers or raw veggie sticks as a snack

Storage, Shelf Life & Make-Ahead Tips

How Long Does Turkish Dips Eggplant Last?

Store in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 4 days
Do not freeze dips with yogurt; texture will separate
Refresh with a drizzle of olive oil before serving again

Meal Prep Friendly Tips for Busy Days

Roast and drain eggplant in advance and store separately
Combine remaining ingredients right before serving
Keeps its flavor well after chilling overnight

Frequently Asked Questions – Turkish Dips Eggplant (FAQs)

What is the difference between baba ganoush and mutabal eggplant?

While both are creamy eggplant dips, baba ganoush typically uses tahini, lemon, and olive oil without dairy, whereas mutabal adds yogurt for a tangier, richer flavor. Mutabal is smoother and more common in Levantine cuisine.

What are the Turkish dips?

Turkish dips, or meze, include a variety like haydari (yogurt-garlic dip), acılı ezme (spicy tomato dip), and patlıcan ezmesi, a smoky eggplant dip often mixed with yogurt or olive oil. They’re served with bread or grilled meats.

What is baba ganoush in Turkish?

In Turkish, baba ganoush is known as babaganuş or babaganuç. However, Turkey’s version is often called patlıcan ezmesi, which is a simpler eggplant dip made with yogurt, lemon, and olive oil.

What is the dip made of eggplant?

The dip made of eggplant is a savory spread made by roasting eggplant and blending it with ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, yogurt or tahini, and olive oil. It’s popular in Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines.

What’s the difference between baba ganoush and Turkish eggplant dip?

Turkish eggplant dip uses yogurt instead of tahini, creating a tangier, lighter flavor. Baba ganoush is creamier and more Middle Eastern in profile.

Can I use yogurt alternatives for this Turkish eggplant dip?

Yes! Unsweetened coconut or almond yogurt works well. Use a thick, plain variety with neutral flavor for best results.

Conclusion: Why Turkish Dips Eggplant Deserves a Spot on Your Table

This Turkish dips eggplant recipe is quick, smoky, creamy, and undeniably addictive. It’s the perfect appetizer, snack, or side that never fails to impress.

Pair it with bread, grains, or veggie platters. After a savory meze spread, finish off your meal with a refreshing lemon cream dessert for the ultimate flavor balance.

This dish proves that tradition and simplicity can come together in just five minutes—without sacrificing taste, authenticity, or joy.