Mizrahi Anchovy Cheese Dip

Ingredients

In the Mizrahi adaptation of Queso con Anchoas, we incorporate Mizrahi Jewish flavors and ingredients to create a unique twist. While the original Spanish dish uses Spanish cheese and anchovies, our Mizrahi version combines creamy cheese with the traditional flavors of Mizrahi cuisine, resulting in a dip that is both familiar and exciting. We alse have the original recipe for Queso con anchoas, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) cream cheese 250g (8.8 oz) cream cheese
• 100g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled 100g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon za'atar spice blend 1 teaspoon za'atar spice blend
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground paprika 1/4 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4-5 anchovy fillets, finely chopped 4-5 anchovy fillets, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat: 15g (9g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 4g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, feta cheese, yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, za'atar, cumin, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. 2.
   Add the finely chopped anchovy fillets to the cheese mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley.
4. 4.
   Serve the Mizrahi Anchovy Cheese Dip with crispy pita bread or fresh vegetables.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cream cheese — Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Za'atar spice blend — If you don't have za'atar, you can make a substitute by combining equal parts dried thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dip.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or labneh, for a unique twist.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the dip in a food processor until creamy.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice according to your taste preference for tanginess.
• Serve the dip at room temperature for the best flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Mizrahi Anchovy Cheese Dip as an appetizer or part of a mezze platter. Accompany it with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables like cucumber and cherry tomatoes, or crispy breadsticks.

Presentation advice

Present the Mizrahi Anchovy Cheese Dip in a shallow bowl, garnished with fresh parsley. Surround the dip with an assortment of colorful vegetables and bread, creating an inviting and vibrant display.