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Filipino Herb Dip

Serves 4 to 6 Dip vegetarian, Appetizers

Filipino Herb Dip

Filipino Herb Dip is a delightful blend of creamy yogurt, aromatic herbs, and a hint of garlic, finished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fine sea salt. It's a dish that captures the essence of Filipino home cooking, where ingredients are measured by instinct and the table is always set for sharing.

This dip is a staple at Filipino gatherings, offering a fresh and tangy contrast to rich and savory dishes. Its flavor is both vibrant and comforting, making it a versatile accompaniment to a variety of meals. Enjoy it as a dip, a spread, or even a sauce to enhance your favorite dishes.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Begin by preparing the base of your Filipino Herb Dip. In a mortar and pestle or a blender, combine 400 g of yogurt with a generous handful of fresh herbs. Use herbs such as cilantro, parsley, or a mix of your favorites, ensuring they are washed and roughly chopped. Pound or blend the mixture until the herbs are finely incorporated and the yogurt takes on a light green hue, indicating the flavors have melded well.
  2. Once the base is ready, gradually work in the olive oil. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil into the yogurt-herb mixture while continuously blending or stirring. This step helps to emulsify the dip, giving it a smooth and creamy texture. The mixture should appear glossy and slightly thickened, which indicates that the oil is well integrated.
  3. Next, finely mince 2 cloves of garlic and add them to the dip. Mix thoroughly to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed, which will infuse the dip with its aromatic flavor. Season the mixture with fine sea salt to taste, starting with a small pinch and gradually adding more. Taste the dip using a piece of bread to check the balance of flavors, adjusting the salt as needed.
  4. Allow the dip to rest briefly, letting the flavors meld together. This short resting period enhances the taste, making it more harmonious. Serve the dip cool, drizzled with a final touch of olive oil for added richness. Present it as part of a shared meal, inviting everyone to enjoy the vibrant and fresh flavors typical of a Filipino home table.
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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