Habanero Cream Sauce
Habanero Cream Sauce is a rich, spicy blend featuring habanero peppers, garlic, cream, and lime juice. Perfect as a topping for seafood, chicken, or pasta, this sauce balances heat with creamy smoothness, creating a flavorful, fiery kick that enhances various dishes without overpowering them.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender (optional for a smoother texture)
Ingredients
- 2 habanero peppers seeded for less heat, with seeds for extra spice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream for a tangy twist
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the seeded (or unseeded for more heat) habanero peppers to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the peppers soften slightly.
- Melt the butter in the pan with the sautéed ingredients. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring continuously to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute until the mixture is lightly browned.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring a smooth consistency. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and sugar. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired thickness. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender directly in the saucepan or transfer the sauce to a blender. Blend until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.
- Remove the sauce from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm over your chosen dish.
Notes
Always handle habanero peppers with care. Wear gloves to avoid skin irritation, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, when working with spicy peppers.