Eggplant Fatteh: A Delicious Middle Eastern Dish with a Unique Iraqi Touch

Eggplant Fatteh, a dish that originates from the Levant, has become widely popular throughout the Middle East, including Iraq. It is known for its delicious blend of flavors, smooth textures, and wholesome ingredients. This dish combines crispy pita bread, soft fried eggplant, and chickpeas, all topped with a creamy yogurt-tahini sauce. Although it stays true to its Levantine roots, many variations of this dish exist, reflecting regional culinary preferences. In Iraq, people enjoy it as a flavorful appetizer or a light meal, especially during family gatherings.

Will provide an in-depth guide to making Eggplant Fatteh, explain the ingredients used, and highlight why it has become a beloved dish across the region. Whether you are traveling to Iraq or simply exploring Middle Eastern cuisine, this recipe offers a perfect introduction to the rich food culture of the region.

Table of Contents

1. What Is Eggplant Fatteh?

2. Ingredients of Eggplant Fatteh

3. Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

4. Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients

5. Popular Variations of Eggplant Fatteh in the Middle East

1. What Is Eggplant Fatteh?

Eggplant Fatteh, often referred to as Fattet Batinjan in Arabic, is a layered dish that offers a delightful combination of crispy bread, tender eggplant, creamy sauce, and crunchy toppings. Traditionally, it is served in several Levantine countries, including Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan, but it has also become a favorite in Iraqi households. In Iraqi cuisine, subtle regional additions such as pomegranate molasses and toasted almonds enhance its depth of flavor.

The word fatteh translates to “crumbs,” reflecting the dish’s signature use of toasted or fried pita bread pieces as the base. This bread absorbs the creamy yogurt-tahini sauce, creating a rich contrast with the textures of eggplant and chickpeas.

2. Ingredients of Eggplant Fatteh

To make Eggplant Fatteh, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

Eggplant: 2 large eggplants, cut into small cubes

Chickpeas: 1 cup, cooked or canned

Pita Bread: 3 loaves, cut into small squares

Olive Oil: For frying and for the sauce

Pomegranate Molasses: A drizzle to enhance the flavor

For the Sauce:

Yogurt: 5 tablespoons

Tahini (Sesame Paste): 3 tablespoons

Garlic: 1 clove, mashed

Lemon Juice: From 1 lemon

Cumin: A pinch

Black Pepper: To taste

Salt: To taste

Toppings:

Toasted Almonds or Pine Nuts: 2 tablespoons

Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Cut the eggplant into small cubes. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry the eggplant cubes until they turn golden brown. Remove the fried eggplant from the oil and place it on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Drizzle a bit of pomegranate molasses over the eggplant to add a tangy flavor

Step 2: Toast the Pita Bread

Slice the pita bread into small cubes. Fry the bread pieces in hot oil until they become crispy and golden. Remove the bread from the oil and set it aside

Step 3: Make the Yogurt-Tahini Sauce

Mash the garlic clove in a bowl. Pour lemon juice over the garlic. Add the tahini, yogurt, olive oil, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Whisk the mixture until the sauce is smooth and creamy

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Place the toasted bread cubes at the bottom of a serving dish. Spread a layer of chickpeas over the bread. Place the eggplant cubes on top of the chickpeas. Pour the yogurt-tahini sauce generously over the top. Toast almonds or pine nuts in a dry pan until fragrant. Sprinkle the toasted nuts and fresh parsley on top for garnish

4. Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients

Eggplant Fatteh is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.

Eggplant is high in antioxidants and dietary fiber, which promote healthy digestion and help protect cells from damage.

Chickpeas provide an excellent source of plant-based protein along with essential minerals such as iron and magnesium, contributing to muscle function and energy levels.

Yogurt offers calcium and probiotics, which support bone health and improve gut function by promoting healthy bacteria in the digestive system.

Olive oil contains healthy fats that benefit heart health, reduce inflammation, and provide essential antioxidants.

Tahini is rich in healthy fats, calcium, and antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

Pomegranate molasses delivers a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants, which strengthen the immune system and enhance skin health.

This combination of nutrient-dense ingredients makes Eggplant Fatteh not only flavorful but also an excellent choice for those seeking healthy, plant-based meals.

This combination of ingredients makes Eggplant Fatteh a satisfying and balanced dish, ideal for those looking for nutritious, plant-based meals.

5. Popular Variations of Eggplant Fatteh in the Middle East

Different countries across the Middle East add their own unique touches to Eggplant Fatteh:

Lebanese Version: Often includes pine nuts and a thicker tahini sauce.

Syrian Version: May add lamb mince for a heartier dish.

Jordanian Version: Includes yogurt strained to make a thicker sauce, called labneh.

Eggplant Fatteh is a delightful dish that perfectly combines crispy bread, tender eggplant, and creamy yogurt-tahini sauce. Originating from the Levant, it has become a popular meal across Iraq, where subtle regional ingredients like pomegranate molasses and toasted almonds make it even more flavorful. This easy-to-make recipe showcases the best of Middle Eastern cuisine, offering both taste and nutritional value. Whether you prepare it at home or try it at a local restaurant in Iraq, Eggplant Fatteh promises a memorable culinary experience.