From Syria to Lebanon, by way of Israel, Palestine and Jordan, Levantine gastronomy seduces the whole world with its Mediterranean and Oriental flavors. One of this cuisine’s flagship dishes is, of course, mezze, a collection of cold dishes often based on legumes, to be enjoyed with pita bread. Basically, a local version of tapas. And among these small dishes are baba ganoush and moutabal, two fairly similar preparations that showcase grilled eggplant. What’s the main difference between these two dishes, and more importantly, where can you find the best places to try them in Brussels?
What’s the difference between baba ganoush and moutabal?
These two specialties share a common base: they both consist of grilled eggplant, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic. Baba ganoush is distinguished by its coarser texture and smoky taste. It sometimes contains tomatoes, walnuts or peppers, and even pomegranate molasses. This complex fruity-sour-sweet condiment – rich in antioxidants – gives it a rich flavor. Mustabal, on the other hand, is often smoother and creamier thanks to the addition of yoghurt or tahini. This sesame cream is another star of Oriental gastronomy. Lebanese and Syrian cuisines offer different recipes, but no matter where they come from, baba ganoush and moutabal are always a delight to the taste buds.
Where can you find the best baba ganoush and moutabal in Brussels?
Baladi
Just a stone’s throw from Brussels’ Grand Place, Baladi offers baba ganoush and moutabal on its menu for 7.90 euros. Super-tasty, healthy dishes from this Syrian restaurant are unanimously acclaimed. The food is fresh, the products are high quality and the friendly service makes all the difference. For a complete change of scenery, we suggest you accompany your feast with an amber Taybeh, a beer from Palestine. Or why not try a Lebanese wine?
📍 Address: Rue des Chapeliers 16, 1000 Brussels
🕖Opening hours: noon to 3.30pm and 6pm to 11pm Tuesday to Thursday / noon to 11.30pm Friday and Saturday / noon to 11pm Sunday
Horia – Oriental Natural Eatery
Many people describe Horia as a gem in Brussels, and they’re absolutely right. This small restaurant next to the Bourse has a small menu, but everything is homemade, 70% of the ingredients are organic and the menu is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Service is impeccable and warm, with attention to detail. The eggplant caviar is delicious (Baba ganoush or moutabal? The question remains). You should expect to pay 8.10 euros for a large portion. You can also choose a plate of three mezzés for the same price. And the tajine of the day won’t disappoint either.
📍 Address: Rue Borgval 7,, 1000 Brussels
🕖 O pening hours: noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 10.30pm Tuesday to Saturday
Smoky, creamy, spicy… baba ganoush and moutabal seduce your palate in Brussels.
Ali Baba
Right in the center of town, this restaurant serving Lebanese specialties is located on a touristy street, but the food on offer puts everyone in agreement. From falafels to shawarmas, not forgetting the grill mix, the flavors are all there. For 6 euros, you can also enjoy a delicious and generous baba ganoush or a Mtabbal, the other name for moutabal. The value for money is unbeatable in Brussels.
📍 Address: Rue Paul Devaux 11, 1000 Brussels
🕖 O pening hours: noon to 10pm Sunday to Friday, noon to midnight Saturday
Al Jannah
Lebanese restaurant Al Jannah will delight all lovers of fresh, healthy cuisine. It’s no coincidence that Al Jannah means “paradise”. Located in the Marolles district of Paris, this simple, pleasant venue offers tasty, healthy dishes, including chicken kebabs and kebe. For 6.5 euros, their moutabal will delight your palate. The hommos and their homemade garlic sauce are also divine.
📍 Address: rue Blaes 59, 1000 Brussels
🕖 O pening hours: noon to 10.30pm Thursday to Tuesday
L’Express
As its name suggests, L’express restaurant offers fast service, despite the crowds (it’s located on the corner of the Grand Place). You’ll find a wide selection of delicious Lebanese dishes, including excellent falafel wraps and kebab shawarmas to die for. This place is also open late, which is convenient for those small evening hungers. Their assortment of mezzés features halloumi toasted in Lebanese bread with garlic sauce, baba ghanoush and hummus. The platter also includes falafel served with yoghurt sauce and pickled turnips, bread and a tasty fattoush salad. In short, a real treat! Even Michelin-starred chef Sang Hoon Degeimbre recommends this address.
📍 Address: Rue des Chapeliers 8, 1000 Brussels