Garlic Dip
A creamy, punchy yogurt dip bursting with fresh garlic and a hint of spice. This quick and easy dip is the perfect partner for kebabs, tikkas, or even just warm naan.
For 4 servings
In a medium bowl, add the thick curd. Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until it is completely smooth, creamy, and free of any lumps.
Add the finely minced garlic, finely chopped green chilli, and chopped coriander leaves to the smooth curd.
Sprinkle in the roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, salt, and freshly ground black pepper powder.
Gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is evenly distributed. Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Do a taste test and adjust salt, spice, or tanginess if needed.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Serve chilled.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use thick, hung curd or Greek yogurt for a rich, creamy texture that won't become watery.
- 2For a milder garlic flavor, you can briefly sauté the minced garlic in a teaspoon of oil before adding it to the yogurt.
- 3Letting the dip rest in the refrigerator is crucial for the flavors to develop fully and for the raw garlic taste to mellow.
- 4For an ultra-smooth texture, you can blend all the ingredients in a small food processor or blender.
- 5This dip is a perfect accompaniment for tandoori chicken, paneer tikka, kebabs, or as a spread for wraps and sandwiches.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbaceous Twist
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint leaves along with the coriander for a refreshing mint-garlic dip.
Smoky FlavorSmoky Flavor
Use the dhungar method: place a small steel bowl in the center of the dip, add a hot piece of charcoal, pour a few drops of ghee over it, and immediately cover the main bowl for 2-3 minutes to infuse a smoky flavor.
Extra CreamyExtra Creamy
For an even richer texture, stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh cream or milk powder when whisking the curd.
Vegan VersionVegan Version
Substitute the dairy curd with a thick, unsweetened plant-based yogurt such as coconut, soy, or cashew yogurt.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Promotes Gut Health
The curd (yogurt) is a natural probiotic, which helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, aiding digestion and improving overall gut health.
Boosts Immunity
Garlic is rich in allicin, a compound known for its potent antibacterial and antiviral properties, which helps strengthen the immune system.
Rich in Protein
Using thick curd or Greek yogurt provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, satiety, and overall body function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's quite healthy. It's made with protein-rich yogurt, which is a great source of probiotics for gut health. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. It's a low-calorie, nutrient-dense condiment.