Make Ahead

Savory Green Dip

January 16, 2011
4
1 Ratings
  • Serves many for snacking
Author Notes

Unsurprisingly, this recipe evolved from my boyfriend's days at a college co-op. But it's surprisingly good, and much healthier than any dip has a right to be. Instead of mayo or sour cream, smoked tofu provides a savory base (without the usual beany flavor of smushy plain tofu), almonds provide further flavor and body, and watercress gives a bit of snap. The dip is tasty but not overpowering, perfect for pairing with chips or crackers (you can adjust the salt accordingly). Different types of baked tofu have different seasonings, so feel free to tweak a bit as needed. —deensiebat

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Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 bunch watercress, washed and dried (use 2 bunches if they're small)
  • 1 handful spinach leaves, washed and dried
  • 1/2 bunch parsley, washed and dried
  • 8 ounces smoked/baked tofu
  • 1/4 cup toasted almonds
  • 1 clove garlic
  • juice of 1/2 lemon
  • 1-2 teaspoons vinegar, such as sherry or cider
  • salt and pepper to taste
Directions
  1. Heat the oil over medium heat in a saucepan. Add the onion, and saute until caramelized. Add the watercress, spinach and parsley, and cook, stirring, for an additional minute or two, until the greens are wilted. Turn off the heat, and allow to cool slightly.
  2. Place the tofu, almonds and garlic in a food processor. Add the cooked onions and greens, and process until pureed, adding the lemon juice and vinegar to taste, and water as needed to reach a smooth consistency (~1/4 - 1/3 cup). Season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve with chips or pita.
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4 Reviews

Blackeyed S. January 17, 2011
So glad to see a vegan recipe! Thanks for posting this. Sorry if this is dumb question, but where do you get smoked Tofu?
deensiebat January 17, 2011
Glad to help my vegan sisters. There's a brand of smoked tofu I've bought in the stores here, but pretty much any baked tofu can be substituted.
lastnightsdinner January 17, 2011
This sounds fabulous.
deensiebat January 17, 2011
Thanks! It's humble and sorta hippie, but tasty (and doesn't leave you feeling awful about eating the whole bowl).