El Pilon Cilantro Sauce
Ingredients:
Half a bell pepper, cleaned and rough chop
4 large jalapeños (3 cleaned – unless you want it hot)
5 cloves garlic
Pinch of ground clove
1 egg raw
1 package powdered Ranch Dressing
One bunch of cilantro, washed and stems removed (cut just above the wire tie)
3/4 cup vegetable oil
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Blend 2 minutes. Makes a K.l.L.L.ER dressing or just with chips.
Keep refrigerated – use within a week or two (which won’t be a problem).
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
Yes, you can control the spice level by adjusting the number of jalapeños.
Using fewer jalapeños will result in a milder sauce, while using more will make it hotter.
What can I use the cilantro sauce for?
This versatile sauce can be used as a dressing for salads, a dip for chips or vegetables, or as a flavorful topping for grilled meats, seafood, or tacos.
Apart from being a great dressing, this sauce can be used as a marinade for grilled meats, a flavorful topping for tacos, or a dip for vegetable platters.
Is there a substitute for raw egg in the recipe?
If you’re concerned about using raw egg, you can omit it or use pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
The sauce will still have a delicious flavor without the egg.
Can I make adjustments to the consistency of the sauce?
Absolutely! If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of vegetable oil.
Conversely, for a thinner sauce, you can add more oil or a small amount of water.
How long can I store the cilantro sauce, and can it be frozen?
The sauce should be kept refrigerated and used within a week or two for optimal freshness.
Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the ingredients.
Can I use a different type of pepper if I don’t have jalapeños?
Yes, you can experiment with other peppers to adjust the heat level according to your preference.
Try serrano peppers for more heat or poblano peppers for a milder option.
What role does the raw egg play in the sauce?
The raw egg acts as an emulsifier, helping to bind and thicken the ingredients.
If you have concerns about using raw eggs, consider using pasteurized eggs or omitting it altogether.
Is there a substitute for powdered Ranch Dressing in the recipe?
You can replace the powdered Ranch Dressing with a homemade mix of herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and parsley for a similar flavor.
Can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?
Yes, to control the thickness, you can vary the amount of vegetable oil.
Adding more oil will result in a thinner consistency, while reducing it will make the sauce thicker.
Can I freeze the cilantro sauce for longer storage?
Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the ingredients.
It’s best to keep the sauce refrigerated and consume it within a week or two.
How do I adjust the salt in the recipe?
Salt can be adjusted to taste.
Start with a small amount, blend the sauce, and then add more if needed.
Remember, you can always add more salt later.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time for a party?
Yes, you can prepare this cilantro sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
It’s a convenient and flavorful addition to party appetizers.
Is there a recommended type of vegetable oil for the sauce?
You can use a neutral-flavored vegetable oil such as canola, sunflower, or grapeseed oil.
These oils won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the cilantro and other ingredients.
What adjustments can I make for a milder version of the sauce?
To make a milder version, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds and membranes before blending.
This will decrease the heat while preserving the sauce’s flavor.