Whitefish Dill Dip

This creamy, smoky, and herb-filled dip is a classic for a reason. Serve it with crackers, pita chips, rye toast, or fresh vegetable sticks.

Yields: Approximately 2 cups

Prep time: 15 minutes

Chill time: 30 minutes (or more for best flavor)

Ingredients:

• 1 pound smoked whitefish, skin and bones removed, flaked

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat or light)

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (full-fat or light)

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  1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped, plus more for garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon finely minced red onion or shallot

• 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish (optional, for a subtle kick)

• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

• Pinch of salt, to taste (smoked whitefish can be salty, so add carefully)

• Optional: Pinch of smoked paprika or a few drops of hot sauce for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Flake the Whitefish: Carefully remove any skin and bones from the smoked whitefish. Flake the fish into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

2. Combine Creamy Base: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Beat with a spoon or electric mixer until smooth and well combined.

3. Add Flavorings: Stir in the chopped fresh dill, fresh lemon juice, minced red onion (or shallot), prepared horseradish (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Fold in Whitefish: Gently fold the flaked whitefish into the creamy mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as you want some texture from the fish.

5. Season to Taste: Taste the dip and add salt as needed. Remember that smoked whitefish can be quite salty on its own, so add sparingly and adjust. If desired, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few drops of hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

6. Chill: Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly. For the best flavor, chill for 2-4 hours.

7. Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional fresh dill and a lemon wedge, if desired. Serve with your favorite crackers, pita chips, rye toast points, or fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, celery sticks, and bell pepper strips.