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Filipino Herb Dip 2

Serves 4 to 6 Dip vegetarian, Appetizers

Filipino Herb Dip 2

Filipino Herb Dip 2 is a cherished staple at Filipino home tables, where the art of cooking is more about intuition than precision. This version captures the essence of family kitchens, where salt is measured by feel, and olive oil is poured with a generous hand. It reflects the warmth of Filipino hospitality, inviting everyone to gather around and share in its simple pleasures.

The dip is a creamy blend of yogurt and finely chopped herbs, with garlic imparting a gentle kick that lingers on the palate. A drizzle of olive oil adds a luxurious finish, and the salt, carefully balanced, enhances each flavor without overpowering. It's a dish meant to be savored slowly, a perfect companion to crusty bread or fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 400 gyogurt
  • herbs — chopped
  • 2 clovesgarlic
  • to finisholive oil
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Start by preparing the base of your dip. In a mortar and pestle, add 2 cloves of garlic and a pinch of fine sea salt. Pound the garlic until it becomes a smooth paste. This releases the garlic's natural oils and flavors, which will infuse the dip.
  2. Next, add 400 g of yogurt to the mortar. Use a spoon to mix the yogurt with the garlic paste until fully combined. The texture should be smooth and creamy, with no visible garlic chunks.
  3. Now, incorporate the herbs. Finely chop a handful of your chosen herbs, such as cilantro, parsley, or basil. Add them to the yogurt mixture, and gently fold them in with a spoon until evenly distributed. The herbs should be visible and vibrant, adding a fresh aroma to the dip.
  4. Gradually work in the olive oil. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil into the mixture while stirring continuously. This will create a silky texture and enhance the richness of the dip. The oil should be fully integrated, leaving no oily residue on the surface.
  5. Season the dip with additional fine sea salt to taste. Take a small piece of bread, dip it into the mixture, and taste. Adjust the salt as needed, ensuring the flavors are balanced and the garlic is not overpowering.
  6. Allow the dip to rest briefly at room temperature. This resting period helps the flavors meld together. Once the dip has settled, serve it cool, ideally with a selection of fresh bread or crackers for dipping.
Cover of Authentic Filipino Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Filipino Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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