Garlic sauce with tomatoes and fish

Garlic Sauce with Tomatoes and Chili – A Spicy Delicacy

When it comes to simple yet flavorful dishes, garlic sauce with tomatoes and chili is a perfect choice. This delicious sauce not only adds a burst of flavor to your meals but is also a healthy option packed with nutritional benefits. Whether you serve it alongside a juicy barbecue, with boiled eggs, or baked potatoes, this sauce will transform every meal into a memorable experience. Let’s discover together how to prepare this quick, flavorful, and character-rich recipe!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 5 fresh garlic cloves
- 2 ripe tomatoes, grilled
- 1 green chili, grilled
- Salt, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil (or any preferred oil)

A Bit of History:

Garlic sauce is a traditional dish found in various culinary cultures. Used as a condiment or sauce, garlic has been appreciated throughout history not only for its intense flavor but also for its medicinal properties. The combination of garlic with tomatoes and chili is not just a play of flavors but also a way to bring together healthy ingredients that improve digestion and strengthen the immune system.

Steps to Achieve a Perfect Garlic Sauce:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by peeling the garlic. Use a knife to remove the skin, then place it in a mortar or blender. If you prefer, you can also use a garlic press, but mashing in a mortar will give you a better texture.

2. Tomatoes and Chili:
Place the tomatoes and chili on the hot grill. Leave them for a few minutes until they become slightly charred and the skin peels off easily. This process will intensify the flavor and add a smoky taste to your sauce. Once cooked, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly.

3. Mash the Ingredients:
Once the tomatoes and chili have cooled, peel them. Add them to the mortar with the garlic. Sprinkle a pinch of salt (sea salt or kosher salt is ideal) to help extract the juices from the ingredients. Use the pestle to mash everything together until you achieve a fine, slightly fluid paste.

4. Finalizing the Sauce:
Finally, pour the olive oil over the garlic, tomato, and chili mixture. Mix well to incorporate the oil, which will add a velvety texture and enhance the flavor. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

5. Serving:
The sauce is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it immediately or let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to meld the flavors. It pairs deliciously with grilled meat, boiled eggs, or baked potatoes. I recommend pairing it with a fresh salad for a perfect contrast.

Practical Tips:

- Vegan Option: If you want to make an even healthier sauce, you can add a few fresh parsley leaves for an extra touch of greenery.
- Spicy or Not: If you prefer a milder taste, you can omit the chili or use a sweet pepper, adding a bit of sweetness.
- Creamier Sauce: If you like a creamier texture, you can add a bit of Greek yogurt to the mixture.
- Storage: The sauce keeps well in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. The flavors intensify, making it ideal to prepare a day in advance.

Nutritional Benefits:

Garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and chili can boost metabolism. This combination not only enhances the taste of dishes but also contributes to overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
It is not recommended, as fresh garlic has a much more intense flavor and superior nutritional benefits.

2. Is the sauce spicy?
It is mildly spicy due to the chili, but you can adjust the amount of chili to your liking.

3. What other dishes can I serve the sauce with?
It is wonderful with any type of grilled meat, but also with fish dishes or roasted vegetables.

4. How can I vary the recipe?
You can try adding fresh dill or basil for a different flavor or even replace the tomatoes with roasted bell peppers.

I wish you happy cooking and a meal full of flavor! Garlic sauce with tomatoes and chili will surely become a favorite in your family. Enjoy every spoonful and savor the authentic flavors! Bon appétit!