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Vietnamese Herb Dip 2

Serves 4 to 6 Dip vegetarian, Appetizers

Vietnamese Herb Dip 2

Vietnamese Herb Dip 2 is a beloved staple at home tables across Vietnam, where it is crafted with an intuitive touch. Salt is judged by hand, and fat is used generously, embodying the natural ease of home cooking. This version captures the essence of Vietnamese family kitchens, where recipes are shared, not written down, until now.

Expect a creamy base with tangy yogurt, elevated by the fresh brightness of herbs and the aromatic warmth of garlic. A drizzle of olive oil adds richness, while fine sea salt brings out the vibrant flavors. This dip is meant to be shared, inviting everyone to gather around and savor each harmonious bite.

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 mortar and pestle or a blender, combine 400 g of yogurt with a handful of fresh herbs of your choice, such as cilantro, mint, or Thai basil. Pound or blend until the mixture is smooth and the herbs are finely incorporated, creating a vibrant green color throughout the yogurt.
  2. Next, gradually work in the olive oil. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil into the yogurt mixture while continuously blending or stirring. This will help emulsify the dip, giving it a creamy texture. Aim for a glossy finish, which indicates that the oil has been well integrated.
  3. Peel and finely mince 2 cloves of garlic. Add the minced garlic to the yogurt mixture and stir well to distribute the flavor evenly. This will infuse the dip with a subtle garlic aroma, enhancing the overall taste.
  4. Season the dip with fine sea salt to taste. Start with a small pinch and mix thoroughly, then taste the dip on a piece of bread to check the seasoning. Adjust the salt as needed, ensuring the flavors are balanced and the dip has a pleasant savory note.
  5. Allow the dip to rest briefly at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Serve the dip cool, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired, and enjoy it as a flavorful accompaniment to your meal.
Cover of Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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