Making garlic sauce

Garlic sauce is perhaps one of the most beloved sauces in Dutch cuisine. You'll find it in every corner of the country: from chic restaurants to your local snack bar. Whether you serve it at a cozy barbecue, as a dip for your favorite snack, or as a creamy topping on a gyros pita, garlic sauce completes any dish. But did you know it's incredibly easy to make your own garlic sauce? Let's dive into how to serve that perfect, homemade garlic sauce.

Why make your own garlic sauce?

You've probably spent some time at the supermarket, browsing through shelves of jars and bottles of garlic sauce. So why choose to make your own? Because you control the flavor! Maybe you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, or perhaps you prefer a lighter version. By making your own sauce, you control the balance between creaminess and heat. And, let's be honest, what's better than a fresh, preservative-free sauce?

Making the Basics of Garlic Sauce

Most garlic sauce recipes start with a few simple ingredients: garlic, yogurt or mayonnaise , lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simple, right? But this is where the magic happens: you can experiment and vary these basics endlessly.

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The ideal recipe

Start by peeling a few cloves of garlic, depending on how much you like that spicy garlic punch. One clove per person is often enough, but experiment. Mince the garlic finely or use a garlic press to make it even finer. Make sure no bits remain in your sauce, unless you prefer that, of course.

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Mix the garlic with four tablespoons of mayonnaise and one tablespoon of yogurt. The yogurt adds a touch of freshness and lightens the sauce. Then add a teaspoon of lemon juice for a tangier note and season with salt and pepper.

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Vary and experiment

Now that you know the basics, you can start playing around. For example, add a teaspoon of mustard for a bit of a kick. Or perhaps a drizzle of olive oil for extra creaminess. Season it with some fresh or dried herbs like parsley, chives, or dill. This not only adds color but also a subtle extra layer of flavor.

Have you ever thought about extra ingredients?

Want to try something completely different? How about a drizzle of honey to create a sweet counterpoint to the spicy garlic? Or a pinch of chili for a fiery finish? Once you've found your perfect garlic sauce recipe, it will be the star of your next meal.

Tips for making garlic sauce

Cold ingredients like yogurt and lemon juice can dull the garlic's flavor. If you want a more intense flavor, steep the garlic in lemon juice for a while before adding the other ingredients. The acidity in the lemon juice helps the garlic release its flavor even more effectively.

Not a fan of mayonnaise? No problem! You can use thick Greek yogurt or even crème fraîche as the base of your sauce. Both add a delicious, rich flavor and pair perfectly with garlic.

Making healthy garlic sauce

Want to enjoy garlic sauce guilt-free? You can! With a few clever substitutions, you can create a healthier version without sacrificing flavor. Instead of a mayonnaise base, opt for yogurt—preferably Greek yogurt or Skyr for added protein and a deliciously creamy texture. Want something even lighter? Use low-fat yogurt and add a splash of lemon juice or olive oil for a rich flavor. Enjoy a fresh, creamy garlic sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled vegetables, salads, or chicken. Healthy and delicious!

Vegan garlic sauce

Even without dairy, you can make a delicious, creamy garlic sauce. Replace yogurt or mayonnaise with unsweetened soy or coconut yogurt for a fresh, light base. Prefer something extra creamy? Blend soaked cashews with garlic, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil to create a velvety smooth sauce. You can also add tahini for a nutty twist or froth aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) for a light texture. With a pinch of salt and seasonings to taste, you can quickly create a vegan garlic sauce that's just as delicious as the classic version!

How many calories are in garlic sauce?

The number of calories in garlic sauce depends heavily on the ingredients. A standard mayonnaise-based garlic sauce contains an average of 350 to 450 calories per 100 grams, depending on the amount of oil and egg yolks. If you use a mix of mayonnaise and yogurt, you'll be looking at around 250 to 300 calories per 100 grams. For a lighter version with just yogurt or quark, this drops to 50 to 100 calories per 100 grams. So, if you're looking for a healthier option, choose Greek yogurt, Skyr, or an oil-free vegan alternative. This way, you can enjoy the flavor without it becoming a calorie bomb!

Alternative to garlic sauce

Love garlic sauce but want to try something different? There are plenty of equally delicious alternatives! Tzatziki is a refreshing Greek option with yogurt, cucumber, and dill, perfect with grilled meat or bread. Garlic hummus offers a creamy, vegan option packed with protein and healthy fats. Looking for something lighter? Try a lemon-dill yogurt dressing or an avocado-lime sauce for a smooth, refreshing flavor. And if you still want that garlic kick but without the dairy or oil, a simple garlic-lemon juice marinade is a delicious addition to your dishes!

Storing and serving garlic sauce

Homemade garlic sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Because you don't use preservatives, it's wise to store it in a sealed container and consume it quickly. Homemade tastes best when it's fresh!

Serve your sauce alongside a plate of fries, with pieces of crusty bread, or as a topping on a salad. The possibilities are almost endless. It doesn't really matter what you serve it with, because garlic sauce can transform almost any dish into a flavor explosion.

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Enjoy your creation!

Making garlic sauce isn't just easy; it's also a fun way to express your creativity in the kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an enthusiastic home cook, these practical tips will give you the tools to create a garlic sauce you'll enjoy every time. Take on the challenge and experience how easy and fun it is to create your own condiment!