Top 5 dips to complete any snack platter

When you invite friends or family for a cozy drink, you want everything to be perfect. A well-stocked drink platter is essential, but what is a drink platter without delicious dips? In this blog post, we share the top 5 dips that will not only take the taste, but also the atmosphere of your drink platter to a higher level. Whether you want to get started in the kitchen yourself or are looking for the best ready-made options, we offer you inspiration and practical tips to make your drink unforgettable. Let yourself be tempted by the possibilities and turn your drink into a true culinary experience!

1. Hummus

Hummus is a versatile and nutritious dip that originated in the Middle East. It is traditionally made from ground chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. This combination results in a smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor. Hummus is not only an excellent side dish choice, but also a healthy addition to any meal. Below, we discuss different variations of hummus and provide a simple recipe for making hummus yourself.

Nutritional Benefits of Hummus

Hummus offers numerous health benefits:

• Rich in Protein: Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle building and recovery.
• High in fiber: Hummus contains a lot of fiber, which promotes digestion and gives a feeling of satiety.
• Source of Healthy Fats: Tahini, made from sesame seeds, is rich in unsaturated fats that are good for the heart.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Hummus contains important nutrients such as iron, magnesium and vitamin B6.

Popular Hummus Variations

In addition to the classic hummus, there are countless variations that can be added to the basic recipe. Here are some popular options:

Beet Hummus

Beetroot hummus adds a beautiful color and earthy flavor to the traditional dip. It also provides extra nutrients such as folate and antioxidants.

• Ingredients: Chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cooked beetroot, olive oil, salt.
• Tip: Try serving it with crunchy vegetables like carrots and cucumbers.

Avocado Hummus

Avocado hummus combines the creaminess of avocado with the traditional hummus base, making it a perfect option for avocado lovers.

• Ingredients: Chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, ripe avocado, cumin, salt.
• Tip: Add a pinch of chili powder for an extra kick.

Easy Hummus Recipe

Here is an easy recipe for making classic hummus. This recipe yields about 4 servings.

Supplies

• 1 can (400 g) of chickpeas (for example from the Bonduelle brand)
• 2 tablespoons tahini (for example from the Al Wadi brand)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for example Filippo Berio brand)
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Instructions

1. Rinse the chickpeas and let them drain.
2. Place the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt in a food processor.
3. Blend the ingredients on high speed until smooth.
4. Gradually add olive oil and water until desired texture is achieved.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, for example with extra lemon juice or salt.

Serving suggestions

Hummus can be served in different ways:

• With Pita Chips: Delicious for a drink.
• As a sandwich topping: A healthy and tasty substitute for mayonnaise.
• With Vegetables: Perfect for a healthy snack or as part of a salad.

Comparison of Hummus Brands

Below is a comparison of some popular hummus brands you can find in stores:

By exploring these variations and recipes, you can discover the versatility of hummus and enjoy a healthy snack option that's both nutritious and delicious.

The Origin of Guacamole

Guacamole has its origins in the Aztec culture, where it has been prepared for centuries. The name “guacamole” is derived from the Nahuatl word “āhuacamolli”, which literally means “avocado sauce”. This dip was originally made with mashed avocados, tomatoes, chili peppers and salt. The Aztecs considered avocado a valuable food and used it in a variety of dishes.

Today, guacamole has become a popular condiment all over the world, especially in Mexican cuisine. It is often served as a dip, but can also be used as a topping for various dishes, such as tacos, burritos, and nachos.

Basic Ingredients of Guacamole

The basis of a good guacamole consists of a few essential ingredients. Here is a list of the most common components:

• Avocados: Choose ripe Hass avocados, which are known for their creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes such as Roma tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
• Onion: Red onion or yellow onion are popular choices; they add crunch and sweetness.
• Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice not only helps balance the flavors, but also prevents the avocado from turning brown.
• Salt: A pinch of salt brings out the flavors.
• Pepper: Jalapeño or serrano chilies can be added for a spicy kick.

Optional Ingredients

For an extra dimension of flavor, consider the following ingredients:

• Coriander: For a fresh, spicy taste.
• Garlic: For a savory addition.
• Cumin: For a smoky touch.

Tips for Making the Perfect Guacamole

Here are some practical tips for preparing the ideal guacamole:

• Choose the right avocados: Make sure your avocados are ripe. Gently press the skin; if it feels soft, it is good to use.
• Use a fork: Mash the avocados with a fork for a coarser texture; this gives an authentic taste experience.
• Add ingredients gradually: Start by blending the avocados and then gradually add the remaining ingredients, allowing you to adjust the flavor.
• Taste regularly: Taste your guacamole as you make it. This will help you find the perfect balance of flavors.

Example of a Recipe

Here's a simple recipe for guacamole:

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe Hass avocados
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, seeded and diced
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste
• A handful of fresh coriander, finely chopped (optional)

Preparation:

1. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit and scoop the flesh into a bowl.
2. Mash the avocados with a fork until desired texture is reached.
3. Add the onion, tomato, jalapeño, lime juice, salt and cilantro.
4. Mix everything well and adjust the seasoning if necessary with extra salt or lime juice.
5. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or store in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap to prevent discoloration.

Combinations with Snacks

Guacamole is a versatile dip that goes well with various snacks. Here is an overview of popular combinations:

• Tortilla Chips: A classic; the salty chips go perfectly with the creamy guacamole.
• Vegetables: Cucumber, carrot or bell pepper pieces are healthy alternatives to chips.
• Nachos: Add guacamole as a topping on nachos for extra flavor and creaminess.
• Burritos: Use guacamole as a delicious filling or topping for burritos.
• Sandwiches: Spread guacamole on your sandwich as a substitute for mayo or butter.

Brands and Products to Try

There are several brands and products available that offer guacamole or guacamole ingredients. Here are some recommendations:

• Wholly Guacamole: A popular choice for ready-made guacamole, available in a variety of flavors.
• Fresh Cravings: Offers fresh guacamole with an authentic taste and no artificial ingredients.
• Bertie's Avocado Dip: An organic option with added herbs for a unique taste experience.

With this information and tips, you'll be well prepared to make the perfect guacamole and enjoy this delicious dish at your next drinks or party!

Tzatziki: A Refreshing Greek Dip

Tzatziki is a traditional Greek dip that is not only delicious, but also versatile and easy to prepare. With its creamy texture and refreshing flavors, tzatziki is a perfect addition to a variety of dishes, especially during the warmer months.

Ingredients of Tzatziki

The basic ingredients of tzatziki are:

• Greek yogurt: For a creamy and thick texture, it is recommended to choose Fage Total or Oikos Greek Yogurt.
• Cucumber: Preferably use an organic cucumber for the best taste and quality.
• Garlic: Choose fresh garlic, such as Folk garlic, for a strong taste.
• Dill: Fresh dill is ideal, but dried dill can also be used in a pinch.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil such as Bertolli for a rich flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Use sea salt and freshly ground pepper for best results.

Basic recipe for Tzatziki

Here's a simple recipe for making your own tzatziki:

Ingredients

• 250 grams Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out any excess moisture.
2. In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill and olive oil.
3. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
4. Let the tzatziki sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour for the best flavor.

Variations of Tzatziki

Tzatziki is not limited to the classic version. There are several variations you can try to tantalize your taste buds.

Spicy Tzatziki with Mint

For a spicy twist, you can add mint to the traditional recipe. Mint gives an extra fresh flavor that goes perfectly with the other ingredients.

Adjustments:

• Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped mint to the basic recipe.
• For extra spice, you can add a pinch of chili powder or a few drops of hot sauce such as Tabasco add.

Avocado Tzatziki

A modern take is avocado tzatziki, which offers a creamy texture and is rich in healthy fats.

Adjustments:

• Add 1/2 ripe avocado to the basic recipe and puree it together with the yoghurt.
• This gives a silky smooth dip with a unique taste.

Serving Suggestions

Tzatziki is very versatile and can be served in different ways:

• With pita bread: A classic combination. Try Pita Bread Co. Pita's for best results.
• With raw vegetables: Serve tzatziki with vegetables such as carrots, celery and bell pepper.
• As a sauce for grilled meat: Perfect with grilled chicken or lamb.
• In salads: Use tzatziki as a dressing for a fresh cucumber salad.

Benefits of Tzatziki

Tzatziki not only has a delicious taste, but also offers several benefits:

• Healthy: Made with Greek yogurt, which is a good source of protein and probiotics.
• Refreshing: The cucumber and dill make it an ideal dip for hot days.
• Low calories: A healthier option compared to many other dips.

The versatility and ease of preparation make tzatziki a must-have for any home cook. With these recipes and variations, you can create your own unique version and enjoy this delicious Greek dip!

The perfect ending to your drinks experience

In conclusion, adding these five delicious dips to your drinks platter will definitely contribute to an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Whether you choose the familiar hummus or the delicious spinach-artichoke dip, combining different flavors and textures makes for a versatile and tasty presentation. Get inspired and enjoy every moment of your drinks!