Serrano Crema

Serrano Crema – Serrano Crema is our take on the authentic Peruvian green sauce called Aji Verde, the bright green sauce served alongside Roasted Chicken in restaurants, and it’s delicious! This sauce is bold, and it adds the perfect spice to roasted chicken, grilled meat, vegetables, salads, and tacos! A drizzle of this yummy green sauce elevates any dish to the next level.

WHAT IS SERRANO CREMA?

Crema’s are typically much thinner than sour cream and since this sauce contains both sour cream and yogurt, the result is a thin and flavorful sauce you’ll want to pour on everything! Ours is flavored with serranos, cilantro, garlic, and lime. Serrano Crema is delicious. Still, it’s not the authentic sauce you will find in Peru, just my take using the ingredients I have at home. I want to get my hands on aji Amarillo (a hot yellow pepper) or rocoto (a hot red pepper) and huacatay (black mint) to make the real deal. I’ll report back here when I do.

IS SERRANO CREMA SPICY?

I think it’s just right, but then again, I love a little heat! However, I realize that not everyone handles spice in the same way, and serrano chilies may be too spicy for some. For this reason, I suggest using jalapeños with the membranes and stems removed for a milder sauce.

WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

• Serrano Chili: Serrano chilies are a favorite of mine! In the summertime, we have serrano chili plants growing in our backyard. Even though I love them, serrano chilis may create a crema that’s too spicy for some. For a milder sauce, use jalapeños. In addition, you can remove the chili membrane and seeds before dicing; this will lower the spice level as well.
• Cilantro: Cilantro balances the heat and lends the sauce it’s bright green color.
• Garlic: I suggest using three cloves, but don’t let my recipe tell you how much garlic to use – measure with your heart.
• Yogurt: Yogurt thickens the Serrano Crema.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream creates a smooth texture and lends a sour note that compliments and doesn’t overwhelm the other ingredients.
• Lime Juice: I use fresh lime juice, about one whole lime.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil works alongside the yogurt and sour cream to create the perfect texture for the sauce. To use this crema as a dressing, increase the amount of olive oil to thin it out.
• Salt + Pepper: Season the crema according to your preference.

HOW TO MAKE SERRANO CREMA

The full recipe with measurements is in the recipe card below.

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SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• The most obvious choice is to serve Serrano Crema with our Peruvian Roasted Chicken or Blackened Mahi Mahi.
• Though it’s unlike traditional Indian raita, it pairs well with Grilled Tandoori Chicken and Instant Pot Chicken Biryani.
• You can build a burger with cheese, avocado, thinly sliced serrano chilies, and crisp bacon- finish the burger with this sauce!
• Pour Serrano Crema on Carnitas, fish tacos, Homemade Tacos with Ground Beef, or shrimp tacos in place of salsa.
• Top a Vegetable Chopped Salad or chickpea dishes, like Chana Masala, chaat masala, or Chickpea Salad.

YOU SHOULD ALSO TRY:

• Carne Asada Tacos
• Vegan Mexican Rice
• How to Heat Corn Tortillas
• Sherry Shallot Dressing
• And More!