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Thai Herb Dip

Serves 4 to 6 Dip vegetarian, Appetizers

Thai Herb Dip

Thai Herb Dip is a staple in many Thai households, often appearing at the table during informal gatherings or family meals. This version captures the essence of home cooking, where ingredients are measured by instinct rather than precision, and the dip is crafted to suit the tastes of those gathered around the table. It's a dish that reflects the warmth and hospitality of Thai home dining, with each cook adding their own personal touch.

The dip is a harmonious blend of creamy yogurt and fresh herbs, lending a cool, aromatic profile accented by the gentle heat of garlic. A generous drizzle of olive oil adds a rich, velvety finish, while a pinch of fine sea salt ties the flavors together, making it a versatile companion for fresh vegetables or grilled meats. Its simplicity is its charm, inviting everyone to scoop and savor.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Start by preparing the base for your Thai Herb Dip. In a mortar and pestle, or a food processor if you prefer, combine 400 g of yogurt with a generous handful of your chosen fresh herbs. Common choices include cilantro, mint, or Thai basil. Pound or blend until the mixture is smooth and the herbs are finely incorporated, creating a vibrant green hue throughout the yogurt.
  2. Once the base is smooth, slowly work in a drizzle of olive oil. If using a mortar and pestle, continue to pound gently while adding the oil in a thin stream. If using a food processor, keep it running on low speed as you pour. The oil should be fully absorbed, giving the dip a creamy and slightly glossy texture.
  3. Next, peel and finely mince 2 cloves of garlic. Add the garlic to the dip, stirring it in thoroughly. The garlic should be evenly distributed, lending a subtle pungency without overpowering the fresh herbal notes.
  4. Season the dip with fine sea salt to taste. Start with a small pinch, mix well, and taste the dip on a piece of bread. Adjust the salt gradually, ensuring it enhances the flavors without being too salty. The goal is a balanced taste where the herbs and yogurt shine through.
  5. Allow the dip to rest briefly at room temperature, about 10 minutes, to let the flavors meld together. This resting period will also allow the garlic to mellow slightly, integrating smoothly with the other ingredients.
  6. Serve the Thai Herb Dip cool, drizzling a little more olive oil on top for a finishing touch. Present it with a variety of breads or fresh vegetables for dipping, inviting everyone to share and enjoy.
Cover of Authentic Thai Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Thai Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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