Description
Taramasalata is a classic Greek dip made from smoked cod’s roe blended with soaked stale bread, olive oil, and lemon juice, resulting in a smooth, creamy spread. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or snack, it is traditionally served with toasted pitta bread for dipping.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Taramasalata
- 100g crustless stale white bread (about 5–6 slices)
- 250g smoked cod’s roe
- ½ red onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 75ml olive oil, plus a drizzle to serve
- 75ml sunflower oil
To Serve
- Toasted pittas
Instructions
- Soak the bread: Place the crustless stale white bread in a bowl of cold water and let it soak until it softens. Then squeeze out the excess water thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dip.
- Prepare the roe: Cut through the thick skin of the smoked cod’s roe lobes and gently scrape out the soft roe underneath. Avoid including the tough membrane to ensure smooth texture.
- Combine ingredients: Add the squeezed bread, scraped roe, chopped red onion, chopped garlic, lemon juice, and a good grind of black pepper to a food processor or blender.
- Blend the mixture: Blend everything into a smooth paste until well combined.
- Emulsify with oils: With the motor running, gradually drizzle in the olive oil followed by the sunflower oil. Continue blending until all oils are fully incorporated and the mixture thickens slightly into a creamy, spreadable consistency.
- Serve: Transfer the taramasalata into a serving bowl, drizzle with a little more olive oil on top for extra flavor and shine, then serve alongside toasted pitta bread for dipping.
Notes
- Use crustless stale bread to ensure a smooth consistency without lumps.
- Scrape the roe carefully to avoid including the thick membrane, which can be bitter and tough.
- Gradually adding oil while blending creates a creamy, stable emulsion.
- Adjust the lemon juice and garlic to taste for desired tanginess and pungency.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dip
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Greek
Keywords: Taramasalata, Greek dip, cod roe dip, Mediterranean appetizer, smoked roe spread
