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Charred Aubergine and Tahini Spread

This charred aubergine and tahini spread is a sophisticated vegan dip that celebrates the smoky, deep flavours of roasted Mediterranean vegetables. By roasting the aubergine at a high temperature until the skin blisters and the flesh softens, you create a rich base that carries the nutty notes of sesame and the warmth of ground cumin beautifully. It is a lighter, more textured alternative to traditional baba ganoush, making it an excellent addition to any plant-based spread.

Serve this savoury dish as part of a classic mezze platter alongside warm flatbreads, crunchy radishes, and chilled crudités. It also works wonderfully as a healthy sandwich filler or a base for a roasted vegetable wrap. Packed with heart-healthy fats from the olive oil and tahini, this homemade spread is as nutritious as it is delicious.

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Ingredients for Charred Aubergine and Tahini Spread

  • 1 large aubergine, cut lengthwise into quarters

  • 60ml olive oil, plus more for drizzling

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 clove garlic finely grated

  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon tahini (sesame seed paste)

  • 3/4 teaspoons ground cumin

  • Toasted sesame seeds

How to make Charred Aubergine and Tahini Spread

Preheat oven to 246°C. Place aubergine on a baking sheet and toss with 60ml oil; season with salt and pepper. Roast until lightly charred and very tender, 20–25 minutes; let cool slightly. Chop aubergine (skin and all) until almost a paste.

Mix aubergine in a medium bowl with garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, tahini, and cumin; season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with oil and top with sesame seeds.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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