Simple Romesco Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Romesco sauce is a beloved staple in the Catalan region of Spain, often served with grilled scallions (calcots), asparagus, meats, and fish. This piquant sauce is not only flavorful but also simple to prepare at home. By making your own Romesco sauce, you can enjoy a healthier and more economical alternative to store-bought versions.

Ingredients

• 4 dried chilis (3 mild and 1 hot variety)
• 25g almonds
• 150ml olive oil
• 1 slice stale bread (crusts removed)
• 3 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
• 3 tomatoes (roughly chopped)
• 120ml wine vinegar (red or white)
• Salt & ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chilis: Cut the chilis and remove the seeds. Soak them in a bowl of warm water for 30 minutes to rehydrate.
2. Toast the Almonds: Dry fry the almonds in a pan until they turn golden.
3. Fry the Garlic and Bread: In a tablespoon of olive oil, fry the garlic and the slice of bread until golden.
4. Blend the Ingredients: Place the garlic, bread, chilis, and tomatoes into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
5. Add Oil and Vinegar: Continue blending while slowly adding the olive oil, followed by the wine vinegar.
6. Season: Add salt and ground black pepper to taste.
7. Infuse Flavors: Cover the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

• Grilled Meat or Fish: Serve the sauce warmed through, thinned with a bit more oil, and gently heated until just simmering.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve at room temperature, especially with traditional calcots.

Tips and Variations

• No Food Processor?: Use a pestle and mortar, starting with the nuts and garlic as they are the toughest to blend.
• Texture Preference: Blend until very smooth or leave some nutty texture, depending on your preference.
• Flavor Enhancements: Although not traditional, adding oregano or lemon thyme can provide a delightful twist to the Romesco sauce.

Nutritional Information

Interesting Facts

• Historical Roots: Romesco sauce dates back to the 15th century and was originally created by fishermen in Tarragona, Spain, to accompany their catch.
• Versatility: Beyond grilled foods, Romesco can be used as a dip, spread, or even a pasta sauce.
• Health Benefits: Rich in healthy fats from olive oil and almonds, Romesco sauce is also packed with antioxidants from tomatoes and chilis.

Sources

• BBC Good Food
• The Spruce Eats
• Healthline

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