Planning a sizzling backyard BBQ this weekend? Add more flavor to your grilled feast with irresistible dips that transform every bite into a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re hosting in your garden, by the pool, or on the patio, dips are the secret to taking your grilled spread from good to unforgettable.
From juicy chicken wings and fish skewers to grilled paneer and smoky vegetables, every barbecue bite deserves the right companion—and dips are the perfect match. Chef Sagar Merchant, founder of condiment label Kaatil, reveals four flavorful dip recipes that are sure to become party favorites.
1. Smoky Garlic Onion Dip
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yoghurt or hung curd
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1/2 finely chopped onion
- 1 tbsp light olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Lime juice
- Optional: fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Method:
In a mixing bowl, combine yoghurt, paprika, garlic, onion, and olive oil. Add salt and a dash of lime juice. Stir well. Garnish with chopped herbs and a touch of paprika.
Pairs Well With:
Charred mushrooms, grilled chicken skewers, roasted corn, BBQ potato wedges.
2. Chilli Mango Salsa Dip
Ingredients:
- 1 diced ripe mango
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 1 chopped green chilli
- Chopped coriander leaves
- Juice of half a lime
- Salt to taste
Method:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Add lime juice and toss everything well. Let it rest for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Pairs Well With:
Smoked chicken wings, grilled paneer, BBQ prawns, and tacos.
3. Hot and Herby Avocado Cream Dip
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup hung curd or sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- Fresh mint leaves
- Salt to taste
Method:
Mash avocado with lemon juice and garlic. Stir in sour cream and hot sauce. Add mint and salt. Chill for half an hour before serving.
Pairs Well With:
Veggie skewers, chicken sausages, charred sweet potato, zucchini fritters.
4. Spicy Tomato and Roasted Pepper Garlic Dip
Ingredients:
- 2 charred tomatoes
- 4–5 roasted garlic cloves
- 1 charred red bell pepper
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Method:
Blend tomatoes, garlic, and pepper. Transfer to a bowl, mix in hot sauce and salt, and drizzle with olive oil. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Pairs Well With:
BBQ burgers, lamb chops, grilled tofu, and quesadillas.
Chef’s Pro Tip:
Prepare your dips in advance to allow flavors to blend beautifully—just like a good marinade. This way, when it’s time to grill, you can serve fresh off the heat and enjoy every bite without delay.