Garlic sauce

Creamy Garlic Sauce – A Culinary Delight

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

The history of garlic sauce is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Over time, this sauce has been used not only to add flavor to dishes but also as a natural remedy due to its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. It is a perfect accompaniment for a variety of dishes, from meats to vegetables, and can make a significant difference in your preparations.

The ingredients needed for this creamy garlic sauce are simple yet essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

- 1 head of fresh garlic
- A pinch of salt (preferably sea salt for a richer taste)
- 200 ml sunflower oil or olive oil (choose based on preference)
- 1 teaspoon of vinegar (you can use white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a more complex flavor)

Now, let’s move on to the preparation steps!

Step 1: Cleaning the garlic
Start by peeling the head of garlic. Separate a few cloves and remove the skin. An effective method is to gently press the cloves with the blade of a knife, which will make peeling easier.

Step 2: Mashing the garlic
Place the peeled garlic cloves in a bowl and add a pinch of salt. The salt will help release the juices from the garlic and improve the texture of the sauce. Use a mortar and pestle or a fork to mash the garlic until you have a fine paste.

Step 3: Emulsifying the ingredients
Now comes the crucial part – emulsifying! Gradually add the oil, drop by drop, while vigorously mixing in the same direction, just like when making mayonnaise. This process is essential to prevent the sauce from splitting. Continue mixing until the sauce begins to achieve a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Finalizing the sauce
When the sauce has a smooth and creamy texture, it’s time to add the teaspoon of vinegar. Mix well to incorporate the vinegar and add a note of acidity that will balance the rich flavor of the garlic.

Step 5: Final taste
Before serving, I recommend tasting the sauce and adjusting the salt or vinegar to your liking. You can also add other spices, such as freshly ground pepper or herbs, to customize the sauce to your taste.

Serving suggestion:
This garlic sauce is perfect to be served alongside grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables. You can also use it as a dip for fresh vegetables or flatbreads.

Possible variations:
To add a note of flavor, try adding some herbs, such as dill or parsley, when finalizing the sauce. Another interesting option is to replace the vinegar with lemon juice for a fresher, citrusy flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Why should I add the oil gradually?
The oil should be added gradually to allow for emulsification, which is the process by which two liquids that do not mix (oil and water from the garlic) combine to form a homogeneous mixture.

2. Can I use roasted garlic?
Yes, roasted garlic will add a sweet and rich flavor to your sauce. Make sure to mash it well to integrate it properly.

3. How can I store the garlic sauce?
The garlic sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Be sure to stir it before use, as it may separate.

Nutrition:
This garlic sauce has a moderate calorie content, and garlic provides numerous nutritional benefits, such as improving the immune system and having anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, the oil used adds healthy fats to the diet.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! This creamy garlic sauce will surely become a favorite recipe in your kitchen, adding flavor to any dish. Enjoy it with your loved ones and don’t forget to share the recipe! Bon appétit!