Immerse yourself in the flavors of the Middle East with this fried scallion dip with lebneh recipe. This creamy, tangy dip has a delightful crunch from the fried scallions and a hint of spice for a well-rounded flavor. It's a unique and delicious dip that's sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
This recipe involves lebneh, which is a Middle Eastern yogurt that has been strained to remove its whey, resulting in a thicker consistency similar to cream cheese but with a tangier and slightly saltier taste. It's becoming more widely available in supermarkets, but if you can't find it, Greek yogurt is a good substitute. The other key ingredient is scallions or spring onions, which add a wonderful, mild onion flavor.
Ingredients for Fried Scallion Dip with Lebneh
Scallions: These are the main flavor ingredient, they add a mild onion flavor and a great crunchy texture when fried.
All purpose flour: Used to coat the scallions before frying, it gives them a nice crispy exterior.
Extra virgin olive oil: Utilized for frying the scallions, it also contributes to the overall flavor of the dip.
Chili powder, coriander, cumin: These spices give the dip its Middle Eastern flavor profile.
Garlic clove: Adds a punch of flavor to the dip.
Jalapeno: This adds a touch of heat to the dip, feel free to adjust according to your preference.
Lebneh: This is the base of the dip, providing a creamy, tangy element that balances the flavors.
One reader, Almeta Warden says:
This fried scallion dip with lebneh recipe is a game-changer! The crispy scallions add a delightful crunch, and the lebneh dip is so creamy and flavorful. It's the perfect blend of textures and tastes. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a unique and delicious appetizer.
Techniques for Preparing Fried Scallion Dip with Lebneh
How to fry scallions: Toss the scallions with flour, tap out any excess flour, and fry in olive oil until golden and crisp.
How to make scallion dip: Cook chili powder, coriander, cumin, garlic, and jalapeño in reserved scallion oil, then stir in lebneh and fried scallions. Season with salt and pepper.
How to serve scallion dip: Serve with pita chips, potato chips, or crudités. Lebneh can be substituted with crème fraîche, fromage blanc, drained Greek nonfat yogurt, mascarpone, or quark.
How To Make Fried Scallion Dip with Lebneh
If you turn French onion soup into a creamy dip, you’ll get this fried scallion dip. Lebneh or Greek yogurt gives it a hint of tang.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 6largescallions
- ¼cupall purpose flour
- ¼cupextra virgin olive oil,(plus 2 tbsp)
- ½tspchili powder
- ¼tspground coriander
- ¼tspground cumin
- 1garlicclove
- 1jalapeno
- 2cupslebneh
- salt and freshly ground pepper
Instructions
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In a bowl, toss the scallions with the flour. Transfer to a colander and tap out any excess flour.
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In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil until shimmering.
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Add the scallions and fry over high heat for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and crisp.
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Drain the scallions in a colander set over a heatproof bowl; reserve 2 tablespoons of the scallion oil.
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Wipe out the skillet.
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Return the reserved scallion oil to the skillet.
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Add the chili powder, coriander, cumin, garlic and jalapeño and cook over high heat, stirring, for 1 minute.
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Transfer to a bowl and stir in the lebneh.
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Season with salt and pepper and stir in the fried scallions.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1641.68kcal
- Fat: 137.68g
- Saturated Fat: 19.06g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 99.14g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 15.22g
- Carbohydrates: 95.99g
- Fiber: 15.26g
- Sugar: 10.75g
- Protein: 16.75g
- Sodium: 1484.46mg
- Calcium: 341.45mg
- Potassium: 1366.00mg
- Iron: 11.98mg
- Vitamin A: 257.81µg
- Vitamin C: 114.71mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Fried Scallion Dip
When frying the scallions, ensure that the oil is shimmering but not smoking. This is the ideal temperature for frying. Too hot, and the scallions will burn and become bitter. Too cool, and they will soak up too much oil and become greasy. Also, stirring frequently ensures even browning and prevents them from sticking to the pan.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process. Multitask: Utilize downtime, such as while waiting for water to boil, to prep or clean up. This maximizes efficiency in the kitchen. One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time. Batch cooking: Prepare larger quantities and freeze individual portions for quick, ready-to-eat meals on busy days. Kitchen organization: Keep frequently used ingredients and tools easily accessible to expedite the cooking process. Efficient tools: Invest in time-saving kitchen gadgets, such as a food processor or immersion blender, to simplify meal preparation.
Substitute Ingredients For Fried Scallion Dip with Lebneh Recipe
scallions - Substitute with green onions: Green onions can be used as a substitute for scallions as they have a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same way in this recipe.
all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all purpose flour: If you need a gluten-free option, using gluten-free all purpose flour can be a suitable substitute in this recipe without compromising the texture or flavor.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for extra virgin olive oil as it has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for frying and adding a subtle richness to the dip.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for chili powder to provide a mild, smoky flavor without the heat, which may be preferred for those who are sensitive to spicy foods.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground cardamom: Ground cardamom can be used as a substitute for ground coriander to add a warm, citrusy flavor with a hint of spice to the dip.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground turmeric: Ground turmeric can be used as a substitute for ground cumin to provide a warm, earthy flavor and a vibrant yellow color to the dip.
garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used as a substitute to provide a similar flavor and aroma to the dip.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano pepper can be used as a substitute for jalapeno to provide a similar level of heat and a slightly fruitier flavor to the dip.
lebneh - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for lebneh as it has a similar thick and creamy texture, making it a suitable alternative for this dip.
Presentation Ideas for Fried Scallion Dip
Elevate the scallion dip: Present the fried scallion dip in a beautiful, handcrafted ceramic bowl to add a touch of elegance to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the scallion dip with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
Artfully arrange the pita chips: Instead of serving the pita chips in a regular bowl, artfully arrange them in a stack or fan shape on the side of the dip to create an eye-catching presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a delicate touch to the presentation by incorporating edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies as a garnish for the scallion dip.
Use contrasting textures: Serve the scallion dip on a textured platter to create visual interest and contrast with the smooth lebneh, adding depth to the overall presentation.
Consider the color contrast: Present the scallion dip with lebneh in a shallow dish to highlight the vibrant green of the scallions against the creamy white lebneh.
Utilize unique serving vessels: Serve the scallion dip in individual, small glass jars or ramekins to provide a modern and sophisticated twist to the presentation.
Add a drizzle of infused oil: Finish the scallion dip with a drizzle of high-quality, infused olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a gourmet touch to the dish.
Create a visually appealing plating: Pay attention to the arrangement of the components on the plate, ensuring a visually appealing presentation that showcases the scallion dip and lebneh beautifully.
Use elegant serving utensils: Select elegant and refined serving utensils, such as silver or gold-toned spoons, to add a touch of luxury to the presentation of the scallion dip with lebneh.
Essential Tools for Making Fried Scallion Dip with Lebneh
- Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile, multipurpose knife for slicing, dicing, and chopping.
- Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for frying and sautéing.
- Colander: A perforated bowl used for draining liquids from foods such as pasta or fried items.
- Bowl: Used for mixing, tossing, and holding ingredients during preparation.
- Heatproof bowl: A bowl that can withstand high temperatures, often used for double boiling or holding hot ingredients.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for flipping, lifting, and spreading ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients in specific quantities.
- Garlic press: A tool for crushing garlic cloves to extract their flavor.
- Grater: Used for grating or shredding ingredients such as cheese, garlic, or ginger.
- Skimmer: A utensil with a perforated bowl used for removing foam or impurities from liquids.
- Whisk: A utensil used for blending, whipping, and incorporating air into ingredients.
- Tongs: Used for gripping and lifting hot or delicate items, such as fried scallions.
- Skewers: Long, thin metal or wooden sticks used for skewering and grilling foods.
- Olive oil dispenser: A container for dispensing olive oil with precision and control.
- Pita chips, potato chips, or crudités: Accompaniments for serving the fried scallion dip with lebneh.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Fried Scallion Dip with Lebneh
To store the fried scallion dip, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.
If you have leftover lebneh, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It's a versatile ingredient that can be used as a spread, dip, or condiment in various dishes.
To freeze the fried scallion dip, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace for expansion. Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to use the frozen dip, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly during the freezing process.
If you find that the thawed dip has lost some of its original texture or consistency, you can revive it by stirring in a little fresh lebneh or Greek yogurt until it reaches the desired consistency.
To maintain the crispy texture of the fried scallions, store them separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Add them to the dip just before serving to preserve their crunch.
Reheating Leftover Fried Scallion Dip
To reheat leftover fried scallion dip with lebneh, start by removing it from the refrigerator and letting it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the dip to reheat more evenly and prevent it from becoming watery or separating.
Once the dip has come to room temperature, transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the dip on high power for 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval, until it is heated through and reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the dip, as this can cause the lebneh to break down and become grainy.
Alternatively, you can reheat the dip in a small saucepan over low heat on the stovetop. Stir the dip frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure even heating. Heat the dip until it is warmed through and reaches your desired temperature, being careful not to let it boil or simmer.
If the dip seems too thick after reheating, you can thin it out by stirring in a small amount of warm water, olive oil, or lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency.
To add a fresh burst of flavor to the reheated dip, consider stirring in some finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or mint. You can also sprinkle some additional chili powder, ground coriander, or ground cumin on top of the dip before serving to enhance its aroma and taste.
Serve the reheated fried scallion dip with lebneh with your favorite dippers, such as pita chips, potato chips, or fresh crudités like sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. Enjoy your delicious and creamy dip!
Interesting Trivia About Fried Scallion Dip with Lebneh
The recipe for fried scallion dip with lebneh is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served with various accompaniments such as pita chips, potato chips, or crudités. The combination of crispy fried scallions, aromatic spices, and creamy lebneh creates a flavorful and satisfying dip. Lebneh, a strained yogurt cheese, adds a tangy and creamy texture to the dish. It can be substituted with crème fraîche, fromage blanc, drained Greek nonfat yogurt, mascarpone, or quark. The fried scallion dip with lebneh recipe offers a unique and tasty option for entertaining or enjoying as a snack.
Budget-Friendly: Is This Recipe Economical?
This fried scallion dip with lebneh recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, and the dish can be served as a flavorful appetizer or snack. The use of scallions, flour, and spices keeps the cost low, while the lebneh adds a creamy and luxurious touch without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Is This Dip Healthy or Unhealthy?
This fried scallion dip with lebneh recipe is a delicious treat, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:
- The scallions are coated in flour and deep-fried in olive oil, which adds extra calories and fat to the dish.
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil (1/4 cup), which is high in calories and fat, although it is a healthier type of fat compared to other oils.
- Lebneh, a type of strained yogurt, is high in protein and calcium but also contains a considerable amount of fat.
- The addition of chili powder, cumin, and coriander adds flavor but not significant nutritional value.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Instead of deep-frying the scallions, try grilling or roasting them with a light coating of olive oil. This will reduce the overall fat content while still providing a nice char and flavor.
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe, or substitute a portion of it with a lower-calorie alternative like chicken or vegetable broth.
- Use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt in place of lebneh to reduce the fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture and protein.
- Increase the amount of spices used, such as chili powder, cumin, and coriander, to add more flavor without increasing calorie content.
- Serve the dip with a variety of fresh, raw vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers instead of pita chips or potato chips to increase fiber and nutrient intake while reducing overall calorie consumption.
Our Editor's Take on Fried Scallion Dip with Lebneh
The combination of crispy fried scallions and creamy lebneh in this recipe creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The spices and jalapeño add a kick of heat and depth to the dip, making it a perfect accompaniment for pita chips, potato chips, or crudités. The use of reserved scallion oil adds a layer of richness to the dish. This recipe offers a versatile option for those who may not have lebneh on hand, as it suggests alternative options. Overall, it's a creative and delicious dip that can elevate any gathering or meal.
Why trust this Fried Scallion Dip with Lebneh Recipe:
This fried scallion dip with lebneh recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The crispy fried scallions add a satisfying crunch, while the aromatic spices and creamy lebneh create a harmonious balance. The use of extra virgin olive oil ensures a rich and authentic taste. The step-by-step instructions provide clarity, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. With its unique blend of ingredients, this recipe promises to elevate any gathering or meal, earning the trust of users seeking a memorable and delectable culinary experience.
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