Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce)

Introduction

Aji verde, also called Peruvian green sauce, is a vibrant cilantro-based sauce that brings zesty flavor to any dish. With its fresh blend of jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, and cilantro, it strikes a perfect balance between spicy, herbal and tangy. While green chilies are traditional, you can moderate the heat to your taste. Drizzle over grilled meats, tacos, ceviche, sandwiches and more for instant Peruvian flair. Read on for an easy recipe, serving ideas, and tips for making the ultimate aji verde.

History of Aji Verde

Aji verde sauce originated in Peru, where it accompanies many traditional dishes. The green color comes from blending lots of fresh cilantro with green jalapeño peppers for a sauce that beautifully marries herbaceous and spicy.

Benefits of Cilantro

Cilantro adds more than just flavor. Potential benefits include:

• High in antioxidants
• May help reduce blood sugar and cholesterol
• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Supports immune system
• Promotes heart, brain, eye, and skin health

Ingredients

This easy blender sauce comes together with just a few ingredients:

• Cilantro
• Jalapeño peppers
• Garlic
• Lime juice
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Water

Substitutions

Feel free to substitute or customize to your taste:

• Cilantro - parsley, spinach, basil
• Jalapeño - serrano, habanero
• Lime - lemon juice
• Olive oil - avocado oil

Recipe Instructions

Prep Ingredients

Roughly chop the cilantro leaves and stems. Seed and slice the jalapeños. Mince the garlic cloves.

Blend the Sauce

Place all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Purée until smooth, adding water as needed for desired consistency.

Season the Sauce

Season to taste with more salt, lime juice, or jalapeño if desired. The sauce should have a bright green color.

Store and Serve

Store sauce in an airtight container up to 1 week refrigerated or 1-2 months frozen. Use as condiment for grilled meats, tacos, sandwiches, ceviche, etc.

Recipe Tips

Follow these tips for the ultimate aji verde sauce:

• Use the lightest green chili peppers for color
• Include the cilantro stems for texture
• Add salt gradually to control seasoning
• Brighten flavor with a splash of vinegar or extra lime
• Thin with water instead of oil to reduce calories
• Roast jalapeños and garlic for deeper flavor

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle or dip creamy green aji verde sauce onto:

• Tacos - fish, meat, veggie
• Ceviche
• Sandwiches and burgers
• Grilled chicken, steak, shrimp
• Burritos and enchiladas
• Quesadillas
• Tostadas

Alternate Uses

Get creative with ways to use aji verde sauce:

• As dressing on grain bowls
• Stirred into mayo for sandwich spread
• As veggie dip
• Drizzled over omelets
• As marinade or sauce for fish
• Swirled into soups or stews
• As sauce for roast chicken or pork

Storing and Freezing

Prepared aji verde sauce keeps 1 week refrigerated or 2 months frozen. Freeze in ice cube trays for easy use.

Storage Tips

• Store in airtight container in refrigerator
• Press plastic wrap on surface before sealing
• Pour into ice cube trays before freezing
• Keep frozen cubes in resealable bags

FAQs

What peppers work best?

Green jalapeños or serranos. Moderate heat by removing seeds and veins.

Can I use cilantro stems?

Yes, stems provide texture and flavor. Just trim the very ends.

Does aji verde need to be spicy?

You can adjust the spice level by using less jalapeño or a milder green chili.

How long does aji verde last?

It will keep up to 1 week refrigerated or 2 months frozen.

Can I use parsley instead of cilantro?

Yes, Italian parsley makes a good substitute in the sauce.

Conclusion

Bursting with bright green jalapeños, herby cilantro, and tart lime juice, aji verde sauce packs incredible Peruvian flavor into every tasty drop. Much more than just a condiment, its versatility allows it to transform everything from simply grilled meats to elaborate taco platters and ceviches. Adjust the chili heat to your taste and whip up a batch of this vibrant sauce for instant flavor enhancement.