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Indian Herb Dip 3

Serves 4 to 6 Dip vegetarian, Appetizers

Indian Herb Dip 3

Indian Herb Dip 3 is a staple in many Indian home kitchens, where it's lovingly prepared to accompany both everyday meals and special gatherings. Unlike its street food counterparts, this version is crafted with a generous hand in the use of salt and fat, reflecting the warmth and hospitality of Indian home cooking. It's the kind of dish that's not just eaten but shared, often gracing the table during family dinners or casual get-togethers.

The dip's creamy yogurt base is enriched with a medley of fresh herbs and the subtle bite of garlic. A drizzle of olive oil rounds out the flavors, creating a harmonious blend that is both refreshing and satisfying. Each spoonful offers a cool, herby burst, with the olive oil adding a silky finish. This is a simple yet elegant dish that stands out with its balance of flavors, perfect for dipping naan or crisp vegetables.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Start by preparing the base for the dip. In a blender or mortar and pestle, combine 400 g of yogurt with a generous handful of your choice of fresh herbs such as cilantro, mint, or a mix of both. Blend or pound until the mixture is smooth and the herbs are finely incorporated, giving the yogurt a light green hue. This step ensures the flavors are well integrated and the texture is creamy.
  2. Next, gradually work in the olive oil. With the blender running on low or while stirring by hand, slowly drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This will emulsify with the yogurt, creating a rich and silky texture. The oil should be fully absorbed, giving the dip a slight sheen.
  3. Peel and finely mince 2 cloves of garlic. Add the minced garlic to the yogurt mixture. Stir well to distribute the garlic evenly throughout the dip. The garlic should infuse the yogurt with a subtle, aromatic warmth.
  4. Season the dip with fine sea salt to taste. Start with a pinch, mix thoroughly, and taste by spreading a small amount on a piece of bread. Adjust the salt as needed until the flavors are balanced and the dip tastes vibrant and flavorful.
  5. Allow the dip to rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This brief resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the dip to cool slightly, enhancing its refreshing quality. Serve the dip cool, drizzled with a little more olive oil if desired, and enjoy as a flavorful accompaniment to your meal.
Cover of Authentic Indian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Indian Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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