New Year Special Platter | Garlic Bread & 4 Amazing Dips

 

Introduction to Garlic Bread

Welcome to the aromatic world of garlic bread! This beloved dish transcends as both a starter and a versatile accompaniment. With its origins deeply rooted in Continental cuisine, garlic bread tantalizes taste buds with its buttery, garlicky goodness atop toasted bread. Explore the secrets to crafting this culinary delight in your very own kitchen.

 

Crafting Garlic Bread

Mastering homemade garlic bread involves infusing bread with a heavenly blend of garlic, butter, and sometimes cheese. The process is simple yet yields irresistible results. Sliced bread is generously slathered with a concoction of butter infused with minced garlic, often sprinkled with herbs like parsley or oregano, then toasted to golden perfection.

 

Fascinating Facts about Garlic Bread

Did you know that garlic bread is not just a standalone dish but also an ideal accompaniment to pasta dishes? Its savory profile perfectly complements pasta, making it a popular side across various cuisines. Whether as a starter or alongside your favorite pasta, garlic bread adds a flavorful dimension to any meal.

 

Recipe: Hummus

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Chickpeas (soaked)
• Water (as required)
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 2 tsp Garlic cloves
• 3-4 tsp Hung curd
• 2 tsp Tahini
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Jeera powder
• 1/2 Lemon
• 1 tsp Pomegranate molasses
• 2 tbsp Olive oil

 

Method:

1. Prepare Chickpeas:

   • In a pressure cooker, cook soaked chickpeas with water and salt for 4-5 whistles.
   • Strain and transfer cooked chickpeas to a mixer jar.

2. Mix Ingredients:

   • Add hung curd, garlic, tahini, salt, jeera powder, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, and blend to a thick paste.

3. Blend and Garnish:

   • Add olive oil and blend to a smooth consistency.
   • Serve in a deep plate, garnish with olive oil and paprika powder.

 

Recipe: Muhammara

Ingredients:

• 2 Red bell peppers
• 2 Tomatoes
• 8-10 Garlic cloves
• 5-6 Dry red chillies
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/2 cup Walnuts
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/2 Lemon

Method:

1. Prep and Roast:

   • In a baking tray, mix red bell pepper, tomato, garlic, dry red chillies, salt, olive oil, and roast for 20-25 mins at 180°C.
   • Toast walnuts in a heated pan.

2. Blend and Garnish:

   • Blend roasted ingredients, walnuts, olive oil, salt, lemon juice to a thick paste.
   • Garnish with olive oil, paprika powder, and pomegranate seeds.

 

Recipe: Mint Mayonnaise

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Mint leaves
• 1 cup Coriander
• 2 Green chillies
• 3-4 Garlic cloves
• 1/2 tsp Roasted jeera powder
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/2 Lemon
• Water (as required)
• 100 gms Mayonnaise

 

Method:

1. Prepare Green Chutney:

   • Blend mint leaves, coriander, green chilli, garlic cloves, roasted jeera powder, salt, lemon juice, and a little water to a smooth paste.

2. Mix with Mayonnaise:

   • Combine green chutney with mayonnaise in a bowl.

 

Recipe: Garlic Toum

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Hung curd
• 1 tbsp Chopped garlic
• 1 tbsp Tahini paste
• 1/2 Lemon
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• A pinch of Jeera powder
• 1 tbsp Olive oil

Method:

1. Mix Ingredients:

   • In a bowl, combine hung curd, chopped garlic, tahini paste, lemon juice, salt, jeera powder, and olive oil.
   • Whisk until well combined.

 

Recipe: Garlic Bread

Ingredients:

• 1 French baguette
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 tsp Chilli flakes
• 2 tbsp Chopped garlic
• 1/2 tsp Oregano

Method:

1. Prep and Season:

   • Cut the baguette into thick baton shapes.
   • Place on a baking tray, drizzle olive oil, chopped garlic, chilli flakes, oregano, and mix.

2. Bake:

   • Bake for 20-25 mins at 180°C until crispy.
   • Serve the garlic bread with various dips.

 

Overview and Conclusion

Savor the delightful simplicity of garlic bread, a timeless dish celebrated for its crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior. From breakfast to dinner, its versatility knows no bounds. Explore variations like cheese-laden garlic bread sticks or experiment with different bread types for a personalized touch.

 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I make garlic bread without using cheese?
   Absolutely! Garlic bread can be crafted without cheese, focusing solely on the delectable garlic and butter infusion.

2. What bread types are best suited for garlic bread?
   French bread, baguettes, or even a classic Italian loaf work wonderfully for making garlic bread.

3. Is garlic bread suitable for vegetarians?
   Yes, garlic bread is typically vegetarian, but it's always good to check the ingredients for any non-vegetarian elements.

4. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
   While fresh garlic offers a robust flavor, garlic powder can be used as an alternative. Adjust quantities according to taste.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftover garlic bread?
   Pop it in the oven or toaster for a few minutes to re-crisp the bread and rejuvenate the flavors.

6. How long can I store homemade garlic bread?
   Ideally, consume it within a day or two for the best taste and texture. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container.

7. Can I freeze garlic bread for later use?
   Yes, tightly wrap individual slices or the entire loaf and freeze for up to a month. Thaw and reheat when ready to consume.

8. Are there gluten-free alternatives for garlic bread?
   Certainly! Opt for gluten-free bread to craft a delightful gluten-free version of this classic dish.

9. What herbs can I use to enhance the flavor of garlic bread?
   Common herbs like parsley, oregano, basil, or even rosemary can elevate the taste of garlic bread.

10. Can I add other ingredients like olives or sun-dried tomatoes to garlic bread?
    Absolutely! Get creative with your toppings to add unique flavors and textures to your garlic bread.