Creamy Moroccan Yogurt Dip with Cucumber and Spices
Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Moroccan cuisine and the beautiful Tajine gifted by a dear friend, this creamy yogurt dip is a delightful addition to any table. Infused with the refreshing crunch of Lebanese cucumber, aromatic dill, and subtle hints of aniseed, this dish balances the richness of yogurt while bringing a refreshing, zesty note to your meals. Perfect for serving with warm flatbreads, fresh vegetables, or as a cooling side dish to accompany spiced meats, this dip is a versatile complement that embodies the essence of Moroccan modernity.
6
Servings
50
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Natural yogurt
500 g (None)
Lebanese cucumber
1 small (Cut in half lengthwise, seeds scooped out, and coarsely grated)
Garlic
2 cloves (Crushed)
Dill
2 teaspoons (Finely chopped)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (None)
Ground aniseed
1 teaspoon (None)
Salt
to taste (None)
Pepper
to taste (None)
Instructions
1
Start by draining the yogurt: Place the natural yogurt into a muslin-lined sieve set over a bowl. Cover it with cling film or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow excess liquid to drain.
2
Once the yogurt has drained, discard the liquid without squeezing the yogurt.
3
Prepare the cucumber: Cut the Lebanese cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds. Coarsely grate the cucumber flesh and set it aside.
4
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained yogurt and the grated cucumber. Add the crushed garlic, finely chopped dill, lemon juice, ground aniseed, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined, adjusting seasoning if necessary.
6
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
7
Serve chilled with warm flatbread, fresh vegetable sticks, or as a flavorful side dish.
Nutrition Information
2.3g
Fat
4g
Carbs
3.3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Moroccan Yogurt Dip?
It is a refreshing and creamy appetizer inspired by Moroccan cuisine, featuring cucumber, dill, and ground aniseed.
What are the primary ingredients in this dip?
The main ingredients include natural yogurt, Lebanese cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and ground aniseed.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 50 calories.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 3.3 grams of protein per serving.
What is the fat content of the recipe?
The dip contains 2.3 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 4 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Why do you need to drain the yogurt?
Draining the yogurt for 1-2 hours removes excess liquid, ensuring the dip has a thick and creamy consistency.
How long should the yogurt be drained?
The yogurt should be placed in a muslin-lined sieve and refrigerated for 1 to 2 hours.
What type of cucumber is best for this recipe?
Lebanese cucumber is recommended for its crisp texture and flavor.
How should the cucumber be prepared?
The cucumber should be halved lengthwise, seeded, and then coarsely grated.
Why are the cucumber seeds removed?
Removing the seeds prevents the dip from becoming too watery.
What is the purpose of adding ground aniseed?
Ground aniseed provides a subtle, aromatic licorice-like note that is essential to the Moroccan flavor profile.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe calls for 2 crushed garlic cloves.
What herb is used to season the dip?
Two teaspoons of finely chopped fresh dill are used for seasoning.
How much lemon juice is added?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a zesty note.
Does the dip need to be refrigerated before serving?
Yes, it should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
What can I serve with Moroccan Yogurt Dip?
It is excellent with warm flatbreads, fresh vegetable sticks, or as a cooling side for spiced meats.
Is this recipe suitable for a healthy diet?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy, low-calorie, and nutritious dip option.
How many total ingredients are used?
There are a total of 8 ingredients used in this recipe.
What is the preparation method for the garlic?
The garlic should be crushed before being added to the mixture.
Can I squeeze the yogurt to speed up draining?
No, you should allow it to drain naturally and discard the liquid without squeezing.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, all ingredients used in this Moroccan yogurt dip are vegetarian-friendly.
What is the texture of the finished dip?
The texture is thick and creamy with a refreshing crunch from the grated cucumber.
What type of yogurt should be used?
The recipe specifies natural yogurt, which is then drained to create the right base.
Are there any specific tools needed?
You will need a muslin-lined sieve, a mixing bowl, and a grater.
Is the dip served hot or cold?
The dip is served chilled.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes, salt and pepper should be added and adjusted to your personal taste.
What inspired this recipe?
The recipe was inspired by Moroccan culinary flavors and a Tajine gift from a friend.
Does the recipe contain any sugar?
According to the nutritional data provided, there is no added sugar in this recipe.