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Creamy Cilantro Jalapeno Sauce Recipe

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4.4 from 10 reviews

This creamy cilantro jalapeno sauce is a versatile, dairy-free condiment perfect for adding a zesty, fresh kick to any dish. Made from soaked cashews blended with fresh cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness, it offers a smooth and tangy flavor that complements salads, grilled vegetables, tacos, and more.

  • Total Time: 5 minutes plus optional 30-120 minutes soaking time
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Cashew Base

  • 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup water

Herbs and Vegetables

  • 1/2 bunch cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 1 jalapeno, cut into 3 or 4 chunks
  • 1-2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
  • 3-4 green onions, cut into 4 or 6 pieces

Seasonings and Extras

  • 1 to 2 limes, juiced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Soak Cashews (if no high-power blender): Place the raw cashews in the blender cup, then pour boiling water over them. Replace the lid and let the cashews soak for 30 minutes to 2 hours until they become plump. After soaking, drain and rinse them thoroughly before proceeding.
  2. Blend the Sauce: Using a high-power blender like a Vitamix, add the soaked cashews (or raw if pre-soaking was skipped), water (start with 1/3 cup), chopped cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, green onions, lime juice, salt, maple syrup (if using), and apple cider vinegar into the blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
  3. Handle Cilantro: You don’t need to pick leaves off individually. Remove any large, woody stalks, but the smaller tender stems can be included for extra flavor and nutrients.
  4. Adjust Consistency and Taste: For a thicker sauce, use less water starting at 1/3 cup and add more gradually if needed. For a drizzling sauce or dressing, add water tablespoon by tablespoon until your desired pourable consistency is reached. The sauce will thicken when chilled.

Notes

  • If you don’t have a high-speed blender, soaking the cashews beforehand is necessary for a smooth texture.
  • Adjust the jalapeno quantity depending on your heat preference.
  • The sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and thickens as it chills—thin with water before serving if needed.
  • Maple syrup is optional but adds a nice subtle sweetness to balance the heat and acidity.
  • This sauce is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
  • Diet: Vegan

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/creamy-cilantro-jalapeno-sauce-recipe/