Garlic sauce with sour cream

Garlic Sauce with Sour Cream - A Culinary Delight

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a sauce that adds an extra layer of flavor to dishes? Garlic sauce with sour cream is a simple yet characterful recipe that transforms any ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you use it alongside baked fish, grilled vegetables, or even as a dip for fresh bread, this sauce is a true indulgence.

A Brief History

Throughout history, garlic has been used not only as a culinary ingredient but also for its health benefits. It is known for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and its combination with sour cream not only enhances the flavors but also makes the sauce creamier and more pleasant to taste. Whether served at a festive meal or a casual dinner, this sauce finds its place on any table.

Ingredients

- 6-7 large garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon of salt (preferably sea salt)
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 100 g sour cream (preferably heavy cream)
- A small bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Necessary Utensils

- A cutting board
- A knife
- A small mixing bowl
- A mortar and pestle or an immersion blender
- A spatula

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Garlic: Start by peeling the garlic cloves. It is important to choose fresh garlic, as its aroma will influence the final taste of the sauce. If you prefer a milder sauce, you can opt for smaller garlic or even leave a few cloves less crushed.

2. Crushing the Garlic: Place the garlic cloves on the cutting board and sprinkle a little salt. Using a mortar and pestle, crush the garlic together with the salt. The salt helps to release the garlic juices and achieve a homogeneous paste, similar to the method of making mayonnaise.

3. Mixing the Ingredients: Gradually add the olive oil while continuing to mix vigorously. This process will make the sauce creamier. Once you have a smooth paste, add the lemon juice and mix well.

4. Incorporating the Sour Cream: Finally, add the sour cream and mix until everything is well blended. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt or lemon juice as preferred.

5. Finalizing: Add the chopped parsley and mix gently to avoid losing the creamy texture of the sauce.

Serving

The garlic sauce with sour cream is extremely versatile. You can serve it alongside baked fish, as I did with trout, but it is also delicious with grilled chicken or steamed vegetables. Another amazing way to use it is as a dip for raw vegetables, such as carrots or celery.

Variations

If you want to add a unique touch to your sauce, try adding a few drops of Worcestershire sauce or some herbs, such as dill or chives. You can also experiment with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, resulting in a lighter yet equally delicious sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use roasted garlic?
Yes, roasted garlic will give the sauce a sweeter and more complex flavor. Make sure it is well cooled before crushing.

2. How can I store the sauce?
The garlic sauce with sour cream can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. The flavor will intensify as the ingredients combine.

3. What other dishes pair well with this sauce?
This sauce is fantastic with fries, grilled chicken breast, and even burgers. I recommend trying it with pizza for a burst of flavors!

Nutritional Benefits

Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to cardiovascular health. Sour cream, on the other hand, provides a dose of calcium and essential vitamins. Together, these ingredients not only offer wonderful taste but also valuable nutritional benefits.

Calories

A serving of garlic sauce with sour cream (approximately 30 g) contains about 80-100 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream used. This sauce is an excellent option if you want to enrich your meals without adding too many calories.

In conclusion, garlic sauce with sour cream is a simple yet flavorful recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can create a perfect accompaniment for a variety of dishes. Don't hesitate to experiment and put your personal touch on this recipe, turning every meal into a celebration of flavors!