Baba ganoush (or baba ghanouj) is a middle eastern spread and dip. It is similar to hummus but is made with eggplant instead of chickpeas (garbanzo beans). This vegetarian and vegan recipe is particularly hummus-like since it uses some chickpeas for a thicker texture. Though adding chickpeas to baba ghanoush isn't necessarily traditional, it provides a little protein boost which is perfect for vegetarians and vegans, (or anyone on a high-protein diet). Most traditional middle eastern preparations use just eggplant mashed with spices, with or without tahini. Tahini is a paste made from toasted and ground sesame seeds, adding flavor but also fat. This easy baba ghanoush recipe is vegetarian, vegan, and completely gluten-free. For an even healthier version, you could also try a tahini-free and fat-free baba ganoush recipe.