| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 150 | 12g | 7g | 5g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 3g | 0.3g |
I’m delighted to introduce you to a fresh, innovative recipe I adore: the Borage and Chive Dip. While my roots may be deeply entwined with the seafood of New England, being a reputable gourmet guru also means exploring various facets of cooking and crafting artful dishes beyond the familiar. I suppose you could compare this delightful venture to the excitement of sailing away from the familiar harbors of Maine to discover new culinary territories. This tangy, refreshing dip is just one of those splendid discoveries.
An Ode to Fresh Ingredients
The Borage and Chive Dip brings together fresh borage leaves and chives. Although borage may not be a staple in every kitchen, it certainly deserves more culinary recognition. With its slight yet sweet cucumber flavor, borage leaves add a unique zest to this dip, not to mention the health benefits. Not only are borage leaves bursting with vitamins A, C, and various minerals, but they are also known to boost overall heart health and reduce inflammation. Similarly, chives provide a gentle onion-like taste while packing a potent punch of vitamins K, A, and C.
Pairings and Combinations
This refreshing dip pairs well with a variety of fresh fruits like strawberries, apple slices, and grapes – making it a perfect blend of the savory and sweet. Although, I would not dismiss the idea of exploring beyond this suggestion. Think of crunchy vegetables or even some baked bread sticks. Also, in a gastronomic twist, it might be an interesting accompaniment to a traditional Maine Lobster roll, bringing in a new wave of flavors.
The Borage and Chive Dip is reminiscent of the ever-popular French herb dip, Boursin, but with a twist. This creamy, garlic-infused recipe is taken to another level with the addition of borage leaves and chives giving it a flavor which I believe sits on a higher culinary pedestal.
In keeping with a balanced lifestyle, it is important to me that every recipe packs a healthy punch. This dip does just that. The presence of cream cheese and sour cream provides a good dose of ‘healthy fats’, protein, and even a small amount of Vitamin A. Lemon juice adds a hint of Vitamin C, while the garlic clove steps in with its immune-boosting properties.
So, here’s to new recipes, to maintaining traditions but also exploring new culinary horizons just like we’re doing with the Borage and Chive Dip. Hailing from New England or not, seeking out fresh, exciting flavors should always be part of the journey. Bon appétit!
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of fresh borage leaves
- 1 cup of fresh chives
- 1 cup of cream cheese
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1 clove of garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
- Fresh fruits for dipping (like strawberries, apple slices, and grapes)
Method
Step One
Begin by thoroughly washing the fresh borage leaves and chives to remove any residual dirt or pesticides. Then thoroughly pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Step Two
Place the borage leaves, chives, cream cheese, sour cream, and peeled garlic clove into a food processor.
Step Three
Next, add the juice from 1 lemon into the food processor.
Step Four
Add the salt and pepper into the food processor on top of the other ingredients.
Step Five
Blend the mixture in the food processor until it is completely smooth. You may need to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a spatula a few times to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step Six
Once the dip is thoroughly blended, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper or lemon juice to suit your taste.
Step Seven
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve it right away or refrigerate for later use. When ready to serve, accompany with your chosen fresh fruit for dipping, such as strawberries, apple slices, and grapes.
