Sauces and Dips

This recipe draws inspiration from several cuisines, particularly Mexican and Tex-Mex, known for their vibrant flavors, use of fresh ingredients, and a balance of spicy, tangy, and creamy elements.

Flavor Profile

Spiciness: The jalapeños provide a spicy kick, which can be adjusted by including or removing the seeds. Roasting the jalapeños adds a smoky depth to the heat.

Tanginess: Lime juice and zest add a bright, tangy flavor that balances the heat of the jalapeños and the richness of the other ingredients.

Creaminess: Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise, and avocado contribute to a smooth, creamy texture that mellows the spiciness and adds richness.

Herbal Notes: Fresh cilantro and dill (if using) give the sauce a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the other flavors.

Smokiness: Smoked paprika enhances the roasted flavor of the jalapeños, adding a subtle smoky undertone.

Sweetness: Honey or agave syrup adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity and heat.

HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE IT!

Ingredients

3 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed (leave seeds for extra heat if desired)

3 cloves garlic

1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves

1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

1/4 cup mayonnaise

Juice of 2 limes

Zest of 1 lime

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon white vinegar

1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon ground coriander

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 small avocado, peeled and pitted

1 green onion, roughly chopped

1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)

Instructions

1. Remove seeds from the jalapeños (if you prefer less heat) and roughly chop them.
2. Peel the garlic cloves.
3. Zest one of the limes before juicing both.
4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place the chopped jalapeños and garlic cloves on a baking sheet, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and roast for about 10-15 minutes until they start to char slightly. Let them cool.
6. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted jalapeños, roasted garlic, cilantro leaves, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, and white vinegar. Blend until smooth.
7. Add the honey or agave syrup, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, avocado, green onion, and chopped fresh dill (if using) to the blender. Blend again until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
8. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, lime juice, or honey/agave syrup to balance the flavors to your preference.

Nutritional Information

This sauce is a flavorful addition to many dishes and provides a balance of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins:

Preparation Tips

Adjusting Heat: Control the spiciness by adjusting the number of jalapeños and whether you include the seeds. Roasting the jalapeños also mellows their heat.

Balancing Flavors: Taste the sauce after blending and adjust the seasoning. Adding more lime juice, honey, or salt can help achieve the perfect balance.

Texture: For a smoother sauce, blend the ingredients longer. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the blender until you reach the desired consistency.

Storage: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will develop and intensify over time.

Variations

Vegan Option: Replace Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives like coconut yogurt and vegan mayo.

Extra Herbs: Add other fresh herbs like parsley or mint for additional layers of flavor.

Different Peppers: Experiment with different types of peppers, such as serrano or poblano, to vary the heat and flavor profile.

Usage Suggestions

Tacos and Burritos: Drizzle over your favorite tacos or burritos for a complex and flavorful kick.

Grilled Meats: Use as a marinade or finishing sauce for grilled chicken, steak, or seafood to enhance the smoky flavors.

Salads: Toss with salad greens, black beans, corn, and avocado for a vibrant and spicy lime dressing.

Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread on sandwiches or wraps for a tangy and spicy condiment.

Dipping Sauce: Serve as a dip for vegetables, chips, or nachos. It pairs wonderfully with crispy, fried foods.