Coriander Sauce

Coriander Sauce Recipe from Tajikistan - Ingredients, Recipe, and Tips

Region / culture: Tajikistan | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Coriander sauce is a flavorful and versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. Made with fresh cilantro, garlic, hot pepper, walnuts, and a few other ingredients, this sauce adds a burst of freshness and spice to any meal.

History

Coriander sauce, also known as cilantro sauce, has its origins in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. It is commonly used as a dipping sauce for grilled meats, vegetables, and bread. The combination of fresh herbs, nuts, and spices creates a unique and vibrant flavor that enhances the taste of any dish.

Ingredients

1 bunch of fresh cilantro, stemmed (about 1 cup loosely packed leaves)
3 cloves of garlic, peeled
1 jalapeño, or other hot pepper, seeded
0.5 cup of walnut pieces
0.33 cup of fresh lemon juice or 0.33 cup of distilled white vinegar
1 tsp of salt, or to taste
0.5 tsp of freshly grated black pepper
0.25 tsp of ground cumin, (optional)
2 tbsp of water, up to 4, or as needed

How to prepare

Combine the cilantro, garlic, chile, and walnuts in a blender or food processor.
Add 0.33 cup of lemon juice, 1 tsp of salt, the pepper, and cumin (if using) and process until a smooth paste forms.
Add enough water to achieve a pourable consistency.
Taste for seasoning, adding salt and lemon juice as needed; the sauce should be well-seasoned.
Serve immediately, or within 4 hours of preparation, at room temperature.

Variations

Add a squeeze of lime juice for a citrusy twist.
Substitute pine nuts or almonds for the walnuts for a different flavor profile.
Mix in some Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to remove the stems from the cilantro before blending to avoid a bitter taste.

- Adjust the amount of hot pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Toasting the walnuts before blending can enhance their flavor.

- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Serve coriander sauce as a dipping sauce for grilled meats, vegetables, or bread. It can also be used as a marinade or dressing for salads.

Cooking Techniques

Blending or food processing

Ingredient Substitutions

Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro.

- Almonds or pine nuts can be used in place of walnuts.

- Lemon juice can be used instead of distilled white vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

Coriander sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve coriander sauce in a small bowl garnished with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of ground cumin. Drizzle a little olive oil on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Coriander sauce pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and flatbreads. It also complements Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover coriander sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 100

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 5g

Dietary Fiber: 1g

Sugars: 1g

Fats

Total Fat: 8g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

Vitamin C: 20% DV

Calcium: 4% DV

Iron: 6% DV

Alergens

Contains: Tree nuts

Summary

Coriander sauce is a low-carb, high-fat condiment that is rich in vitamins A and C. It is a flavorful addition to any meal and can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Coriander sauce is a flavorful and versatile condiment that adds a burst of freshness and spice to any dish. Made with fresh cilantro, garlic, hot pepper, walnuts, and a few other ingredients, this sauce is a must-try for any food lover.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Coriander Sauce. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning to cook alongside my own grandmother in her cozy kitchen. She was a master in the art of cooking, and I was always eager to learn from her.

One day, as we were preparing a special meal for a family gathering, my grandmother pulled out a small, tattered notebook from her apron pocket. She flipped through the pages, her eyes scanning the words written in faded ink. Finally, she stopped at a page that seemed to be well-loved and well-worn.

"This is a recipe for Coriander Sauce," she said with a smile. "It's a family favorite, passed down through generations."

I watched as she gathered the ingredients and began to work her magic in the kitchen. The aroma of fresh coriander filled the air, mixing with the scent of garlic and lemon. As I watched her chop, mix, and blend, I knew that this sauce would be something special.

When the sauce was finally ready, my grandmother poured it into a small bowl and handed me a spoon. "Try it," she said.

I took a small taste, and my taste buds were instantly awakened by the burst of flavors. The tangy lemon, the earthy coriander, and the sharp garlic all melded together in perfect harmony. It was a taste unlike anything I had ever experienced before.

From that day on, I knew that I had to learn how to make Coriander Sauce for myself. My grandmother patiently taught me the recipe, guiding me through each step with love and care. As I practiced and perfected the sauce, I came to understand the importance of tradition and family in the kitchen.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe for Coriander Sauce with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have become friends. Each time I make it, I am reminded of my grandmother and the joy she brought to our family through her cooking.

The recipe for Coriander Sauce has become a staple in my own kitchen, a comforting reminder of the love and traditions that have been passed down through the generations. It is a recipe that I will always hold dear, a connection to my past and a promise for the future.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I urge you to give Coriander Sauce a chance. Let the flavors dance on your tongue, and remember the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass the recipe down to your own grandchildren, just like I did.