Spicy Ricotta Dip Hot Honey: Easy Recipe & Delicious Pairing

Spicy Ricotta Dip Hot Honey: Prepare to have your taste buds tantalized! Imagine a creamy, dreamy cloud of ricotta cheese, infused with a fiery kick and then drizzled with the sweet, golden nectar of hot honey. This isn’t just a dip; it’s an experience, a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Ricotta, a cheese with humble Italian origins, has long been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Its delicate, slightly sweet flavor makes it incredibly versatile, lending itself beautifully to both sweet and savory dishes. But the addition of spice and the modern twist of hot honey elevates this simple cheese to a whole new level of deliciousness. The combination of creamy ricotta, fiery chili flakes, and the sweet heat of honey is a culinary revelation that’s quickly becoming a favorite appetizer for gatherings and cozy nights in.

People adore this Spicy Ricotta Dip Hot Honey for its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The smooth, velvety ricotta provides a comforting base, while the chili flakes add a delightful warmth that awakens the palate. And then there’s the hot honey – a drizzle of liquid gold that brings everything together with its sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy notes. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients, making it the perfect dish to whip up for unexpected guests or when you’re simply craving something delicious and satisfying. Get ready to impress with this irresistible dip!

Ingredients:

• For the Ricotta Base:
• 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese, preferably fresh
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• For the Spicy Hot Honey:
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1-2 tablespoons chili oil, depending on desired heat level (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• For Serving:
• Crusty bread, for dipping (baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta work well)
• Vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, cucumbers)
• Crackers
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Ricotta Base:

1. Combine the Cheeses: In a medium-sized bowl, add the ricotta cheese and softened cream cheese. Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened; otherwise, you’ll end up with lumps. I usually let mine sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or even an hour, depending on how warm my kitchen is.
2. Incorporate the Parmesan: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. The Parmesan adds a lovely salty and savory note that complements the richness of the ricotta and cream cheese.
3. Add the Aromatics: Now, it’s time to add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the garlic is finely minced so it distributes evenly throughout the dip. The red pepper flakes are what give this dip its initial kick, so adjust the amount to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with just 1/8 teaspoon and taste as you go.
4. Mix Thoroughly: Using a fork or a rubber spatula, thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Don’t overmix, as this can make the ricotta a bit watery. You just want everything to be nicely incorporated.
5. Taste and Adjust: Give the ricotta mixture a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes depending on your preference. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
6. Chill (Optional): While you can serve the ricotta dip immediately, I find that it tastes even better if you let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dip to firm up slightly.

Making the Spicy Hot Honey:

1. Combine Honey and Chili Oil: In a small saucepan, combine the honey and chili oil. The amount of chili oil you use will determine the heat level of your hot honey, so start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste. I like a good kick, so I usually use closer to 2 tablespoons.
2. Add Red Wine Vinegar: Stir in the red wine vinegar. The vinegar adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the honey and the heat of the chili oil.
3. Optional: Add Red Pepper Flakes: If you want even more heat, add the optional red pepper flakes.
4. Heat Gently: Place the saucepan over low heat and gently warm the mixture, stirring constantly, until the honey is smooth and runny. Be careful not to boil the honey, as this can change its flavor and texture. You just want it to be warm enough to easily drizzle.
5. Simmer Briefly: Once the honey is smooth, let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and create a more complex flavor profile.
6. Cool Slightly: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the hot honey cool slightly before using. It will thicken up a bit as it cools.

Assembling and Serving:

1. Spread the Ricotta: Transfer the prepared ricotta base to a serving dish. Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly across the dish, creating a slight well in the center.
2. Drizzle with Hot Honey: Generously drizzle the spicy hot honey over the ricotta base, allowing it to pool in the center well. Don’t be shy with the honey! It’s what makes this dip so special.
3. Garnish (Optional): If desired, garnish the dip with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
4. Serve Immediately: Serve the spicy ricotta dip immediately with crusty bread, vegetable sticks, and crackers for dipping. The combination of the creamy ricotta, spicy hot honey, and crunchy dippers is absolutely irresistible.

Tips and Variations:

• Ricotta Cheese: The quality of your ricotta cheese will greatly impact the flavor of the dip. I highly recommend using whole milk ricotta cheese, preferably fresh, for the best results. Avoid using part-skim ricotta, as it can be a bit dry and grainy.
• Chili Oil: You can use store-bought chili oil or make your own. To make your own, simply heat some neutral oil (like canola or vegetable oil) in a saucepan over low heat. Add dried chili flakes and let them infuse the oil for about 30 minutes. Strain the oil and discard the chili flakes.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and chili oil to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add more to taste.
• Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dip, you can reduce the amount of honey in the hot honey.
• Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the ricotta base. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives would all be delicious additions.
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest in the ricotta base can add a bright and zesty flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: For a different flavor profile, try drizzling the ricotta dip with balsamic glaze instead of hot honey.
• Baked Ricotta Dip: For a warm and comforting dip, you can bake the ricotta dip in the oven. Simply spread the ricotta base in an oven-safe dish, drizzle with hot honey, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
• Make Ahead: The ricotta base can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The hot honey can also be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Serving Suggestions:

• Appetizer: This spicy ricotta dip is the perfect appetizer for parties, gatherings, or even a casual weeknight snack.
• Brunch: Serve it as part of a brunch spread alongside bagels, smoked salmon, and other brunch favorites.
• Pizza Topping: Use it as a topping for homemade pizza. Spread the ricotta base on the pizza dough, drizzle with hot honey, and bake as usual.
• Sandwich Spread: Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for a flavorful and spicy kick.
• Charcuterie Board: Add it to a charcuterie board for a creamy and spicy element.

Enjoy!

This spicy ricotta dip with hot honey is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. The combination of creamy ricotta, spicy honey, and crunchy dippers is simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is truly a revelation, and I genuinely believe it deserves a permanent spot in your appetizer rotation. The creamy, cool ricotta provides the perfect canvas for the fiery kick of chili flakes, all beautifully balanced by the sweet, sticky drizzle of hot honey. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

But why is this dip a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile and surprisingly easy to make. You can whip it up in mere minutes, making it ideal for impromptu gatherings, last-minute snacks, or even a sophisticated addition to your next dinner party. Forget those store-bought dips loaded with preservatives – this homemade version is fresher, healthier, and bursting with authentic flavor. The combination of creamy ricotta, spicy chili, and sweet honey is simply irresistible.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving this delightful dip. For a classic presentation, serve it with toasted baguette slices, crispy pita chips, or an assortment of colorful crudités like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. The contrast between the warm bread and the cool dip is divine.

But don’t stop there! Get creative and explore different flavor combinations. For a Mediterranean twist, add a sprinkle of chopped Kalamata olives and a drizzle of olive oil. If you’re a fan of garlic, a clove or two of minced garlic will add a pungent depth to the dip. For a cheesier experience, try incorporating a handful of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese.

And let’s talk about variations! If you’re not a fan of hot honey (though I highly recommend giving it a try!), you can substitute it with regular honey and a pinch of cayenne pepper to control the level of heat. You could also experiment with different types of chili flakes, such as Aleppo pepper for a fruity and mild heat, or gochugaru for a Korean-inspired kick.

Another fantastic variation is to bake the dip! Spread the ricotta mixture in an oven-safe dish, drizzle with hot honey, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. Serve it warm with crusty bread for a truly decadent experience.

This Spicy Ricotta Dip is also fantastic as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Imagine slathering it on a toasted panini with grilled vegetables and prosciutto – pure heaven! You can even use it as a topping for pizza or pasta for an unexpected burst of flavor.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover its magic for yourself. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will impress your friends and family.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Once you’ve made this Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations I suggested? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and comments below – I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy dipping!

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