With sunnier days coming up, you know there’s something the French are getting an itch for – and that is “L’Apero” (short for appetizers).
The French Apero is a ritual of before dinner snacks and drinks, so dear to French hearts. Think American “Happy Hour”, but a little more food-focused. And although enjoyed throughout the entire year, it is even more religiously followed during the Spring and Summer, two seasons where one is prone to being wedged on a sun-drenched patio with friends, enjoying drinks and small bites.
Often impromptu and thrown together on a whim when friends start to gather, a French Apero commonly features chips, peanuts, olives and slices of Saucisson (dried pork sausage) … nothing very extravagant. But if you have more time on your hands, you can come up with more creative bites, dips and toasts to wow your guests.
In her new book “French Appetizers”, Marie Asselin shares her best French inspired recipes to throw a scrumptious Apero in your home. It’s a great book full of creative recipes (savory cakes, tartlets, one-pan quiche…) and simple formulas to make recipes your own. If you are new to the ritual of the French apero or simply looking to step up your game, this is a book for you – and I am sure you will cook from it all Summer long (I know, I will!).
Today, I have chosen to share with you Marie’s recipe for Eggplant Caviar Dip (Caviar d’Aubergine), a staple of the French apero table. This is a creamy and incredibly flavorful dip made from roasted eggplants, garlic and shallots with herbs and spices. Like many Mediterranean staples, it bears strong influences from the Middle East and reminds one of Baba-ganoush. But if you ask me, it is easier to make and it feels less rich, since it does not include tahini. It simply lets the beautiful flavours of roasted eggplant shine through.
It is delicious enjoyed for the apero with crackers and/or toasted pita. It also makes a scrumptious spread on toasts or in a sandwich.
If you try this Eggplant Caviar Dip (Caviar d’Aubergine) recipe let me know! Leave a comment or share a photo using #pardonyourfrench and #FrenchAppetizers on Instagram. Bon Appétit!
Recipe from French Appetizers by Marie Asselin, reprinted by permission of Gibbs Smith
6 comments
[…] aquafaba for me and I was inspired to try making blinis. I’d seen some inane TV chefs making aubergine caviar and wanted to try my hand at […]
I made eggplant caviar dip according to your recipe, it took only a short time to make and it tasted great, my daughter loved it, thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much, Laurie! This dip really does have a wonderful taste to it, and quite healthy as well!
[…] Eggplant Caviar Dip (Caviar d’Aubergine) […]
Is this not almost the same as Baba Ganoush, the Greek dip?
Quite similar, you’re right, Patricia! Not the exact same, but close. 🙂