Avraham Fuzaylov, also known as Abe, is the dedicated founder of Bukharian Bites, a passion project devoted to celebrating Bukharian Jewish Cuisine. The idea for Bukharian Bites came to life in the summer of 2023 and officially launched in March of 2024, attracting a warm and enthusiastic community of 1,750-plus on Instagram. We began publishing his recipes starting with issue 1176.
Bojon stands out for its simplicity and robust flavor. This garlic eggplant spread, often compared to the more widely known baba ghanoush, offers a straightforward preparation method without compromising on taste. It captures the essence of Bukharian culinary traditions, making it a delightful addition to any meal, whether as an appetizer or a sandwich spread.
Bojon is cherished for its uncomplicated recipe that highlights the natural flavors of eggplant and garlic. Unlike baba ghanoush, which can involve several ingredients and steps, Bojon remains elegantly simple yet rich. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for both casual gatherings and sophisticated dining experiences.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
2 lbs (900 g) medium eggplants (select those with dark brown, shiny skins for best flavor and texture)
2-3 cloves garlic
½ teaspoon coarse salt
Instructions:
Roast Eggplants
You may wrap the eggplants in foil or place them directly on stovetop burners or over embers for a deeper smoky aroma.
Roast until they are tender to the touch.
Cool and Peel
After roasting, cool the eggplants under running water for easier handling.
Remove the skins and rinse the eggplants thoroughly.
Drain them well, squeezing out any excess moisture, and discard any charred bits.
Prepare the Garlic Paste
In a metal dish, use a wooden pestle to crush the garlic cloves and salt into a paste. (You can also prepare the paste using a traditional mortar and pestle.)
Combine Ingredients
Add the eggplants to the garlic paste.
Continue pounding until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Serve
Spread Bojon into a layer approximately 1/5 inch (1/2 cm) thick on plates.
Serve as a flavorful appetizer or an enriching sandwich spread.
Bukharian Bites is a passion-driven initiative aimed at celebrating and sharing the rich culinary heritage of the Bukharian Community. Through this project, Fuzaylov hopes to connect people with the vibrant flavors, traditions, and stories that make Bukharian Jewish culture unique. The goal is to educate both the younger generation in our community as well as those unfamiliar with Bukharian culture, using the universal language of food.
Avraham Fuzaylov