Circassian Walnut Sauce

Ingredients

While the original Allemande sauce from French cuisine is made with a base of velouté sauce and enriched with egg yolks and cream, the Circassian Walnut Sauce takes a different approach. It replaces the velouté sauce with a blend of toasted walnuts and yogurt, giving it a unique nutty flavor and a creamy texture. The Circassian version also incorporates traditional Circassian spices, adding a distinct taste that sets it apart from the original French sauce. We alse have the original recipe for Allemande sauce, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) walnuts, toasted 2 cups (240g) walnuts, toasted
• 1 cup (240g) plain yogurt 1 cup (240g) plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, garlic, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until the walnuts are finely ground.
2. 2.
   Add the yogurt to the walnut mixture and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. 3.
   Heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the walnut-yogurt mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. 4.
   Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.
5. 5.
   Once cooled, transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley.
6. 6.
   Serve the Circassian Walnut Sauce as a dip, dressing, or topping for your favorite dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Walnuts — Make sure to toast the walnuts before blending them to enhance their flavor. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper according to your taste preference.
• Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more yogurt for a thinner sauce or reducing the yogurt for a thicker sauce.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the sauce.

Serving advice

Serve the Circassian Walnut Sauce at room temperature or slightly chilled. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a dip for bread or crackers. Drizzle it over salads or use it as a dressing for a unique twist.

Presentation advice

When serving the Circassian Walnut Sauce, garnish it with a sprinkle of paprika and a few whole toasted walnuts for an elegant touch. Serve it in a decorative bowl or ramekin to enhance the visual appeal.