Ingredients
Scale
- 4–5 medium fresh jalapeños, stems removed
- 1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 2 cloves fresh garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 2–4 tablespoons cold water (for thinning)
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the jalapeños in a small saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the peppers are significantly softened. Drain the peppers and allow them to cool for 5 minutes.
- Step 2: Combine the cooled, drained jalapeños, cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic cloves, and lime juice in a high-speed blender or food processor.
- Step 3: Blend the mixture until it is completely smooth and uniform in color. Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender jar as needed to ensure no chunks remain.
- Step 4: Add the kosher salt and begin adding cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, while blending, until the sauce reaches your desired pourable consistency (it should be thick but easily drizzled).
- Step 5: Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings; add more salt for flavor or more lime juice for tanginess if needed. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Notes
- Store this sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days; if separation occurs over time, just give it a quick stir before serving.
- Since this is a creamy, mayonnaise-based sauce, avoid heating it directly; if the consistency is too thick coming straight from the fridge, simply let it sit out at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to loosen slightly.
- Elevate your meals by using this vibrant sauce as a topping for fish tacos, drizzling it over loaded nachos, or serving it alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
- For a milder flavor profile, remember to scoop out and discard the white membrane and seeds from the jalapeños *before* simmering them, which will retain the fresh pepper flavor while significantly reducing the heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American