Do you snack when you get home from work (or school)? Or do you have the willpower to wait until dinner? I often get scolded because even if dinner is only 30 minutes away, I usually spoil my appetite just a touch with a snack. Usually it’s a piece of string cheese, a big handful of almonds, a banana or crackers. One of my favorite snacks is candied jalapenos on a small slice of cheddar on top of a cracker, but sadly I’m all out of candied jalapenos (weep, weep). So while I was looking for something to become best friends with my beloved salted crackers I came up with this simple Chipotle Lentil Dip.
This is a type of dip that keeps giving. You get one taste in your first bite but then it develops into a new taste as you continue. First you’ll taste the smokiness, then a slight sweetness and finally a hint of heat due to those chipotle peppers. Some people fear spicy foods so this isn’t a heat overload. It’s not going to burn your mouth, or even make you wince. It’s a good middle in the road dip that spicy food lovers and haters can both enjoy. But if you are a heat seeker, add in 2 chipotle peppers and you’ll get double the kick. With some major football games coming up be sure you make enough if you have guests coming over or are going to a friends house. This dip is completely veggie friendly and is a good alternative to snack on instead of those greasy finger goods we all eat while watching the big games.
The base of this Chipotle Lentil Dip is one of my favorite lentil recipes. I use this for for so many recipes to start with and you’ll see it featured next week. The major taste is going to come in with your can of Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce. I always use La Morena brand because it’s the most authentic and can be found at every corner bodega here in NYC. They’re also available at Walmart so basically everyone can find them now! La Morena offers a bunch of products in the chili and pepper category that I always use in Mexican dishes that I’m cooking.
If you enjoy Mexican food, then you’re going to love this dip because those chipotle peppers give it a authentic taste. The dip doesn’t take long to make. Once your lentils are done then throw everything in a food processor and pulse a few times. Just like that, your Chipotle Lentil dip is ready to be thrown into a bowl to be served. I’m using 1 chipotle pepper along with 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce. If you want more spiciness, you can add in a additional pepper.
Serve with crackers, chips, pretzels or vegetables! Enjoy!
