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West African Pepper Dip

Serves 4 to 6 Dip vegan, Appetizers

West African Pepper Dip

West African Pepper Dip is a vibrant staple across home tables, where it is prepared with a casual touch that comes from years of instinctive cooking. This version captures the essence of everyday West African meals, where salt is judged by hand, fat is used generously, and the table is always set for sharing. It's a dish that brings the warmth of the kitchen to the dining space, offering a glimpse into the heart of West African culinary practice.

Expect a bold, smoky flavor from the roasted peppers, harmonized by the pungency of garlic and a bright, citrusy kick from freshly squeezed lemon juice. The olive oil adds a luscious texture, creating a dip that is both rich and refreshing. It's best enjoyed with friends, spread over bread or alongside grilled meats, embodying the spirit of communal dining so cherished in West African homes.

Ingredients

  • 3roasted peppers
  • 2 clovesgarlic
  • 60 mlolive oil
  • lemonjuiced
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Begin by placing the 3 roasted peppers into a mortar and pestle or a blender. If using a mortar and pestle, pound the peppers until they form a smooth paste, ensuring there are no large chunks remaining. If using a blender, pulse the peppers until they reach a smooth consistency, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.
  2. Once the peppers are smooth, slowly drizzle in 60 ml of olive oil while continuing to blend or pound. This gradual incorporation helps emulsify the oil with the peppers, creating a creamy texture. The mixture should start to look glossy and cohesive.
  3. Squeeze the juice from one lemon into the pepper mixture, being careful to catch any seeds. Blend or stir the lemon juice in thoroughly, allowing the acidity to balance the richness of the oil and enhance the pepper's flavor.
  4. Peel and finely mince the 2 cloves of garlic, then add them to the mixture. Stir or blend until the garlic is fully incorporated, ensuring its pungent aroma melds with the other ingredients.
  5. Season the dip with fine sea salt to taste. Start with a small amount, mix it in, and taste the dip on a piece of bread. Adjust the salt gradually, as it should enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
  6. Allow the dip to rest for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld and develop further. Serve the dip cool, as this will help the flavors to be more pronounced and refreshing, perfect for sharing at the table.
Cover of Authentic West African Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic West African Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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