Palestinian Dips and Spreads Featuring Olive Oil

In Palestinian cuisine, a variety of delicious dips and spreads showcase the versatility and rich flavors of olive oil. These dips and spreads are often enjoyed as appetizers or accompaniments to meals, offering a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and traditional spices. Here are some popular Palestinian dips and spreads that highlight the use of olive oil:

Palestinian Dips and Spreads Featuring Olive Oil

1. Hummus (حُمُّص)

Ingredients: Cooked chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, cumin.

Preparation: Chickpeas are blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and spices until smooth and creamy. The hummus is drizzled with olive oil and often garnished with paprika, parsley, or whole chickpeas.

Serve with: Pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a side dish with grilled meats.

2. Baba Ghanoush (بابا غنوج)

Ingredients: Grilled or roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, parsley.

Preparation: Roasted eggplant is mashed and mixed with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth and silky. It is seasoned with salt and garnished with parsley and a generous drizzle of olive oil.

Serve with: Pita bread, raw vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter.

3. Muhammara (محمرة)

Ingredients: Roasted red bell peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, Aleppo pepper (pul biber), pomegranate molasses.

Preparation: Red bell peppers are roasted, then blended with walnuts, breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon juice, and spices until smooth. Olive oil and pomegranate molasses are added for richness and tanginess.

Serve with: Flatbread, crackers, or as a dip for raw vegetables.

4. Labneh (لبنة)

Ingredients: Strained yogurt (labneh), olive oil, za'atar (thyme and sesame seed mix), salt.

Preparation: Labneh (thickened yogurt) is formed into a ball or spread on a plate, then drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with za'atar and salt.

Serve with: Bread, vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter.

5. Tahini Sauce (صلصة طحينة)

Ingredients: Tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, garlic, water, olive oil, salt.

Preparation: Tahini is combined with lemon juice, garlic, and water to create a smooth, pourable sauce. Olive oil is often added for flavor and richness.

Serve with: Falafel, grilled meats, salads, or as a dressing for vegetables.

6. Za'atar and Olive Oil Dip

Ingredients: Za'atar spice blend (thyme, sesame seeds, sumac), olive oil.

Preparation: Za'atar is mixed with olive oil to create a fragrant and flavorful dip. The dip can be used as a spread on bread or drizzled over salads.

Serve with: Bread, vegetables, or as a seasoning for dishes.

These Palestinian dips and spreads highlight the use of olive oil as a key ingredient, contributing to their delicious flavor and smooth texture. Whether enjoyed as part of a mezze platter or as a complement to main dishes, these dips showcase the culinary richness and heritage of Palestinian cuisine. Experiment with these recipes to bring the authentic flavors of Palestine into your kitchen!