Raw basil-nut dip or spread

By Stanka Vukelić

Raw basil-nut dip or spread

Basil is a highly fragrant plant whose leaves are used as a seasoning herb for many different types of foods. It is an excellent addition to salads, raw soups, spreads, sauces, and dips. We are going to use it to make a spread with almond and cashew nuts.

As icing on the cake – to the mediteranian taste – we’ll add olives. The spread is of “royal taste”, like basil itself. Its name is of Greek origin basileu, meaning king.

The spread/dip is used for veggie rolls/pockets or as a spread/sauce for bread and pizza. It is a perfect dip for celery stalk, carrots, or other vegetables. Also great for zucchini noodles!

Preparation time: 10 min.

Soaking: over night, or 8-12 hours

Ingredients for 2 people:

2/3 cup of cashew nuts soaked overnight

1/2 cup of almonds soaked overnight

bunch of fresh basil

4-5 green olives

3 medium garlic cloves (or as you like)

pinch of sea salt

1 fresh-squeezed lemon

pinch of cayenne-pepper

1 teaspoon of black miso

1/2 cup of water

Methods/steps:

1. Put the cashews and almonds separately into two jars and cover with fresh water. Soak it over night. After that, wash well a few times, and peel the almonds for better taste.

2. Put all ingredients into a blender.

3. Process until well combined and creamy.

4. Serve.

5. Alternatively, store in refrigerator in a sealed container. Stays good for 5 days, maybe more, we’ll never know, because it is eaten up too soon.

Options:

Instead of black miso, use any miso or soy sauce. If you use soy sauce, don’t add salt!!!

Extra info on basil

8 facts about basil:

1. essential oil of basil, obtained from its leaves, has demonstrated the ability to inhibit several species of pathogenic bacteria that have become resistant to commonly used antibiotic drugs

2. provides protection against unwanted bacterial growth

3. is used as a natural preservative

4. is an “anti-inflammatory” food that can provide important healing benefits along with symptomatic relief for individuals with inflammatory health problems like rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel conditions

5. very good source of vitamin A

6. very good source of beta-carotene; because of its powerful anti-oxidants; may prevent conditions as asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis

7. good source of magnesium, which promotes cardiovascular health

8. very good source of iron and calcium, and a good source of potassium and vitamin C

organictalks.com