Creamy Yogurt-Mint Sauce over Grilled Eggplant

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €4.33 · €0.72/serving

• 1 cup creamy Greek yogurtEst. price €0.75–€1.50
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped fragrant mint leaves (add at the end for maximum freshness)Est. price €0.30–€0.60
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (strain to remove pulp)Est. price €0.20–€0.40
• 1 teaspoon aromatic curry powder (preferably homemade for best flavor)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper flakes (adjust amount for desired heat level)Est. price €0.08–€0.20
• 2 eggplants, each weighing around 1 pound, sliced into 1-inch-thick circular discs (salt and let sit to remove bitterness)Est. price €1.80–€3.50
• 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil from the Far East (use for a nutty flavor)Est. price €0.70–€1.40
• 2 tablespoons cracked coriander seeds (lightly toast before cracking for enhanced aroma)Est. price €0.40–€0.80

Steps

1. 1

   In a medium bowl, combine the initial 5 ingredients and season with salt and pepper. If desired, this mixture can be prepared in advance, up to 1 day ahead. Simply cover the bowl and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

2. 2

   Preheat the barbecue to a medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the eggplant rounds with sesame oil. Season them with coriander, salt, and pepper. Grill the eggplant until it develops a slight char, approximately 6 minutes on each side.

3. 3

   Place the eggplant slices neatly on a serving plate. Accompany them with a side of refreshing yogurt and mint sauce.

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• Cultural note

  Grilled eggplant with yogurt-mint sauce is a popular Middle Eastern dish known as 'Baba Ghanoush.' It is commonly served as an appetizer or side dish in Mediterranean cuisine and is enjoyed for its creamy texture and flavorful combination of ingredients.

• Seasonal note

  Eggplants are in season during the summer and fall, making this dish perfect for those months when eggplants are at their freshest. Mint is commonly available in spring and summer, adding a refreshing touch to the sauce during warmer seasons.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of fiber from the eggplant and yogurt, which supports digestive health. The yogurt provides protein and calcium for bone health, while the mint and lemon juice add vitamin C and antioxidants.