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Colombian Pepper Dip

Serves 4 to 6 Dip vegan, Appetizers

Colombian Pepper Dip

Colombian Pepper Dip is a staple at home tables throughout Colombia, where it's often prepared for casual gatherings or as a flavorful addition to family meals. This version captures the essence of Colombian home cooking, with ingredients that are measured by feel and instinct rather than precision. It's a dish that reflects the warmth and generosity of Colombian hospitality, where the dip is shared amongst family and friends.

Expect a smooth, velvety texture with the smoky sweetness of roasted peppers mingling harmoniously with the pungency of garlic. The olive oil adds a luscious depth, while a squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors. Salt is added with care, balancing the richness and enhancing the natural sweetness of the peppers. Serve it as a vibrant accompaniment to warm bread or crisp vegetables, inviting everyone to dive in and savor the communal experience.

Ingredients

  • 3roasted peppers
  • 2 clovesgarlic
  • 60 mlolive oil
  • lemonjuiced
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Begin by preparing the roasted peppers. If they have skins, peel them gently by hand, ensuring that any charred bits are removed to avoid bitterness. Place the peeled peppers into a blender or a mortar and pestle, depending on your preference for texture. The goal is to achieve a smooth but slightly chunky consistency, which gives the dip its characteristic rustic feel.
  2. Add the 2 cloves of garlic to the peppers. If using a blender, roughly chop the garlic to help it blend evenly. If using a mortar and pestle, crush the garlic cloves directly with the peppers until they are fully integrated and the mixture is aromatic.
  3. Slowly incorporate 60 ml of olive oil into the pepper-garlic mixture. If using a blender, drizzle the oil in a thin stream while blending on low speed. For a mortar and pestle, add the oil gradually, stirring continuously to emulsify the mixture. This step ensures the dip becomes creamy and well-blended.
  4. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the mixture, being careful to catch any seeds. The acidity of the lemon will brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the olive oil. Blend or stir until the lemon juice is fully incorporated, and the mixture has a uniform texture.
  5. Season the dip with fine sea salt to taste. Start with a small pinch, mix thoroughly, and taste by spreading a small amount on a piece of bread. Adjust the salt as needed, keeping in mind that the flavors will deepen as the dip rests.
  6. Allow the dip to rest for at least 10 minutes at room temperature. This brief resting period lets the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Serve the dip cool, accompanied by fresh bread or as a complement to other dishes on the table, embodying the spirit of Colombian hospitality.
Cover of Authentic Colombian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Colombian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Colombian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Colombian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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