Aji Verde is a vibrant and creamy green sauce originating from Peru, known for its spicy kick and fresh herbaceous flavors. This versatile sauce is typically served as a condiment alongside various dishes such as grilled meats, seafood, or as a dip for appetizers. Made with a base of spicy peppers, fresh herbs, and creamy mayonnaise, Aji Verde adds a burst of flavor to any meal and is easy to prepare at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves (packed)
- 2-3 green jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons green onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (about 1 lime)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash and pat dry the fresh cilantro, parsley, green jalapeño peppers, and green onion. Remove any tough stems from the cilantro and parsley.
- Blend the Ingredients:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the mayonnaise, fresh cilantro leaves, fresh parsley leaves, chopped green jalapeño peppers, minced garlic, and chopped green onion.
- Add Lime Juice and Seasonings:
- Squeeze the lime juice into the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always adjust the seasonings later, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Blend all the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Stop to scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor with a spatula as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
- Adjust Consistency (Optional):
- If the sauce is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste the Aji Verde and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed, according to your preference.
- Chill (Optional):
- For best flavor, transfer the Aji Verde to a bowl or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Aji Verde can be served immediately as a dipping sauce for empanadas, grilled meats, or seafood. It also makes a delicious spread for sandwiches or a topping for tacos and burgers.
Tips:
- Adjust Heat Level: The spiciness of Aji Verde can be adjusted by adding more or less jalapeño peppers. For a milder sauce, remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers before chopping.
- Storage: Store any leftover Aji Verde in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before serving again.
- Variations: Feel free to customize your Aji Verde by adding ingredients like avocado for extra creaminess or a pinch of cumin for a hint of smokiness.
This homemade Aji Verde is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire, bringing a burst of fresh and spicy flavors to a variety of dishes. Enjoy experimenting with different ways to incorporate this versatile Peruvian sauce into your meals!