Ajika - Spicy Georgian Sauce

Ingredients

• 10 red chili peppers, seeds removed and chopped 10 red chili peppers, seeds removed and chopped
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) fresh cilantro, chopped 1 cup (240ml) fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup (240ml) fresh parsley, chopped 1 cup (240ml) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon ground fenugreek 1 tablespoon ground fenugreek
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 1.7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 3g, 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a food processor or blender, combine the chopped chili peppers, minced garlic, cilantro, parsley, ground coriander, ground fenugreek, ground paprika, honey, and salt.
2. 2.
   Blend the ingredients until a thick paste forms.
3. 3.
   Slowly drizzle in the olive oil and red wine vinegar while the blender is running, until the sauce reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
4. 4.
   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. 5.
   Transfer the Ajika sauce to a sterilized jar or airtight container.
6. 6.
   Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld together before using.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chili peppers — Wear gloves when handling and avoid touching your face or eyes. Adjust the amount of chili peppers according to your spice tolerance.

Tips & Tricks

• For a milder version, remove the seeds from the chili peppers before blending.
• Ajika sauce tastes even better after a day or two, as the flavors intensify over time.
• Adjust the amount of honey and chili peppers to suit your personal taste preferences.
• Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
• Store the Ajika sauce in sterilized jars to prolong its shelf life.

Serving advice

Serve Ajika sauce as a condiment alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a dipping sauce for bread. It can also be used as a marinade for chicken, beef, or seafood.

Presentation advice

Transfer the Ajika sauce to a small serving bowl or ramekin. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a drizzle of olive oil for an attractive presentation.