Indian Style Tapenade Recipe
Tapenade is a beloved Mediterranean spread, often used to complement bread and served as a snack or appetizer. Traditionally made with olives, capers, and various herbs, the tapenade is an iconic taste of the South of France. This vibrant dish is known for its rich, briny flavors, which are perfect for spreading on crusty bread. However, in this Indian-style version, we’ve given the classic recipe a unique twist by incorporating the wholesome goodness of green moong dal. The resulting tapenade offers a delightful blend of earthy legumes, savory olives, and aromatic spices—a perfect snack for any occasion.
This recipe is vegetarian, high in protein, and offers a healthy way to enjoy this Mediterranean favorite with an Indian flair. Whether you are hosting a tea time gathering or craving a quick snack to accompany your morning chai, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| French bread | 1 loaf |
| Green Moong Dal (Whole), boiled | 1 cup |
| Salt | Salt to taste |
| Black olives, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Green olives, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Onions, finely chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Green Chilli, finely chopped | 1 teaspoon |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 3-4 tablespoons |
| Lemon zest | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parsley leaves, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Dry Red Chilies, crushed | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for garnish) | As required |
| Dry Red Chilli (for garnish) | 1/2, crushed |
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tapenade Mixture:
Begin by heating a wide pan on medium heat. Add 1-1/2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and allow it to warm up. Once the oil is heated, add the finely chopped onions, garlic, and both black and green olives to the pan. Stir and sauté the ingredients for about 1 minute, letting the flavors meld together. -
Add the Moong Dal:
Now, add the boiled green moong dal along with salt. Lightly mash the moong dal into the mixture, allowing the flavors to combine. Stir in the fresh lemon zest for a hint of citrusy freshness. -
Combine the Mixture:
Turn off the stove and transfer the mixture into a bowl. Stir in the chopped parsley or cilantro to give it a refreshing herbal note. Add crushed dry red chilies and lemon juice to the mixture. Finish by drizzling the remaining 1-1/2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and mix everything together well, ensuring that all the ingredients are fully incorporated. -
Prepare the Bread:
Slice the French bread diagonally into thin slices. Toast the slices lightly, just enough to give them a crisp, golden texture. Arrange the toasted bread slices on a serving platter. -
Assemble and Serve:
Spoon the prepared moong tapenade mixture generously over each slice of toasted bread. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top and sprinkle some crushed dry red chilies for an added kick. -
Enjoy:
Serve your Indian Style Tapenade immediately, either with a hot cup of masala chai for a delightful tea-time treat or as a savory breakfast option. This dish also works wonderfully as a snack or appetizer during any gathering.
Allergen Information
This dish contains no common allergens like dairy, gluten, or nuts. However, please note that it contains olives, which can be high in sodium, so those with specific dietary restrictions should adjust the amount of salt accordingly.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is fully plant-based and does not include any meat or animal products.
- High Protein: The inclusion of green moong dal makes this tapenade an excellent source of plant-based protein, ideal for vegetarians and vegans alike.
- Gluten-Free: The tapenade itself is gluten-free, but you should serve it with gluten-free bread if following a gluten-free diet.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe contains no dairy products, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Tips & Tricks
- Olive Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of olives, such as Kalamata or green Spanish olives, to create a tapenade that suits your personal taste.
- Moong Dal Substitutes: If green moong dal is unavailable, you can substitute it with yellow moong dal or even chickpeas for a different flavor profile.
- Bread Options: While French bread is the traditional choice, you can opt for whole-grain bread or gluten-free bread for a healthier or allergy-friendly version.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chili and crushed red chilies based on your preferred spice level. For a milder version, simply reduce the amount of chili used.
Conclusion
This Indian Style Tapenade brings a creative fusion of Mediterranean and Indian flavors together in a way that is both satisfying and nutritious. The blend of earthy moong dal, briny olives, and fresh herbs creates a unique snack that is both hearty and flavorful. Whether served at a tea party, as a quick breakfast, or as an appetizer for a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this delicious, high-protein vegetarian treat with a cup of masala chai or your favorite beverage.
Embrace the fusion of cuisines and add this vibrant dish to your collection of easy, healthy, and flavorful recipes!
