Description
A vibrant and tangy Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip that combines fresh cranberries, a touch of sweetness, zesty jalapeño heat, and creamy smoothness. Perfect as an appetizer or snack served with wheat crackers, this dip offers a balanced flavor profile with a hint of cumin and fresh herbs for added aroma.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Ingredients
- 340 grams fresh cranberries
- 100 grams granulated sugar, adjust to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 3 scallions, chopped (green and white parts)
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and membranes removed, chopped
- 15 grams fresh cilantro leaves
- 0.5 to 0.75 teaspoons ground cumin, to taste
- Pinch of salt
- 454 grams cream cheese, softened
Serving
- Wheat crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberry Mixture: Add cranberries to a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. Then add sugar, lemon juice, jalapeño, scallions, cilantro, cumin, and salt. Blend thoroughly, scraping down sides as needed, until the mixture is finely chopped and well combined.
- Strain Excess Juice: Use a slotted spoon, sieve, or cheesecloth to strain the excess liquid from the cranberry mixture. Set this juice aside for potential use in beverages or other recipes, retaining only the thick mixture for the dip.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: Place the softened cream cheese on a serving platter. Using a spatula, spread it evenly to form a layer approximately 0.5 centimetres thick, creating a smooth base for the dip.
- Assemble the Dip: Evenly spoon the drained cranberry-jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese layer, ensuring full coverage. Optionally, garnish with whole cranberries and extra cilantro leaves for a festive touch.
- Serve: Present the dip immediately alongside wheat crackers for scooping. This dip is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate its vibrant flavors and creamy texture.
Notes
- Adjust sugar amount depending on your preferred sweetness level and the tartness of cranberries.
- Remove jalapeño seeds and membranes carefully to control heat intensity.
- Straining the juice is essential to keep the dip thick and prevent it from becoming watery.
- This dip can be prepared a few hours ahead and chilled, but bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
- Use fresh cranberries outside of the cranberry season when possible or substitute with good quality frozen cranberries, thawed.
