Instructions: 1. Prick the eggplant in several places with a fork, place it on a baking sheet , and broil in a preheated broiler for about 20 minutes, turning the vegetable several times so that the skin chars on all sides. Let the eggplant cool.

2. When the eggplant is cool enough to handle, cut it in half and scrape out the flesh into a bowl, discard the skin, and mash the eggplant with the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper. Cover the mixture and refrigerate it.

3. Before serving, sprinkle the spread with the oil, if desired, and minced parsley, and serve it with pita, fresh or toasted, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.

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