Hulba: A Wholesome, Creamy Fenugreek Dip for Every Occasion

Looking to try something bold and flavorful? Hulba—a traditional Middle Eastern dip made with fenugreek—is a unique and delicious way to spice up your next meal. Perfect as a mezze dish or a savory side, Hulba combines earthy fenugreek, hearty lentils, fragrant spices, and a touch of ghee for a rich, creamy texture that’s impossible to resist.

This recipe brings together a balance of heat from fresh chilies, tanginess from tomatoes, and depth from the aromatic spices like turmeric, cardamom, and black pepper. The addition of lentils and rice makes the dip hearty and filling, while the silky saffron garnish adds a beautiful golden hue and a fragrant finish.

Whether served with warm flatbread or as an accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats, Hulba will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Middle East with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Hulba is a flavorful dip that offers the perfect blend of textures and spices. The fenugreek adds a distinctive, slightly bitter taste that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. The chilies give it a satisfying heat, while the lentils and rice offer a creamy base that makes it both satisfying and nutritious. Paired with flatbread, it’s a great option for sharing at parties or gatherings, and its complex flavor profile will surely impress your guests.

Fenugreek is not only delicious but also known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and being rich in vitamins and minerals. So, you can feel good while enjoying this flavorful dip!

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons ground fenugreek

• 225 ml (8 fl oz) water

• 4 hot chilies, halved, seeds and stalks removed, and thinly sliced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 large tomato, peeled and finely chopped

• 2 spring onions, finely chopped (including heads)

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom

• ¼ teaspoon turmeric

• 75 g (3 oz) boiled lentils

• 75 g (3 oz) boiled rice

• 1 teaspoon coriander leaves, chopped

• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)

• About 150 ml (¼ pint) stock

For Garnish:

• ½ teaspoon powdered saffron

  
  

Instructions:

1. Soak the Fenugreek: Begin by soaking the fenugreek in 225 ml (8 fl oz) of water for 5 to 6 hours. This will soften the fenugreek and help it release its flavor.

2. Whisk the Fenugreek: After soaking, gently drain the fenugreek and whisk it with a fork until it becomes frothy and smooth.

3. Prepare the Chilies: Halve the hot chilies and remove the seeds and stalks. Slice them thinly, being cautious with the heat level. If you prefer a milder dip, use fewer chilies or omit the seeds.

4. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the soaked fenugreek with the chilies, salt, finely chopped tomato, spring onions, garlic, black pepper, ground cardamom, and turmeric. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.

5. Add Lentils and Rice: Stir in the boiled lentils and rice and continue mixing with a wooden spoon. The rice and lentils will help thicken the dip and add a creamy texture.

6. Cook the Mixture: Pour the mixture into a pot and add the coriander leaves, stock, and ghee. Cook over low heat, stirring regularly, until the dip thickens to your desired consistency. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more water to reach a smooth, creamy texture.

7. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, chili, or spices according to your preference.

8. Serve: Once the dip has thickened and is perfectly seasoned, pour it into a large serving bowl. Garnish with a generous pinch of saffron powder, which will not only add a vibrant yellow color but also a subtle fragrance that elevates the dish.

9. Enjoy! Serve Hulba warm or at room temperature with warm flatbread for dipping.

   
   

Why Hulba Is a Must-Try:

Hulba is a dish with centuries of tradition, and it’s as versatile as it is flavorful. It can be served as a snack, a side dish, or even as part of a larger mezze spread. The combination of earthy fenugreek, spicy chilies, and aromatic spices makes it a dip that’s full of character. It’s rich, satisfying, and a great conversation starter at any gathering.

The best part? It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, so you’ll always have a delicious, hearty dip ready to impress your guests.

Pro Tips:

• Customize the Heat: If you’re not a fan of spicy foods, feel free to adjust the amount of chili or remove the seeds to make the dip milder.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: Hulba is an excellent option for meal prep! Make it in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days. The flavors only get better as it sits.

• Add Protein: If you want to make this dip even heartier, consider adding cooked chicken, lamb, or even a dollop of yogurt on top before serving.

  
  

Where to Find the Best Ingredients:

Find everything you need to make this flavorful Hulba Fenugreek Dip at Mona's Farm. From fresh fenugreek to premium spices like cardamom and saffron, we carry everything to help you create authentic Middle Eastern dishes right at home. Visit us today to get all your cooking essentials!

Try this Hulba recipe today and indulge in the rich, bold flavors of fenugreek in a creamy dip that’s perfect for any occasion!