Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant island of Jamaica? Then get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this authentic Escovitch sauce recipe! This zesty, flavorful sauce is a staple in Jamaican cuisine, perfect for adding a punch of flavour to your favourite fish, chicken, or even vegetables. It's a surprisingly easy recipe, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick and delicious homemade meal. This recipe is perfect for those searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas, offering a delicious dish that's bursting with fresh flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 scotch bonnet peppers, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat, adjust to your spice preference)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon ground thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots (optional, for added sweetness and texture)
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions (optional, for freshness and garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped scotch bonnet peppers and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful when handling scotch bonnets, as they are extremely hot!
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the vinegar, water, brown sugar, allspice, thyme, salt, pepper, and cloves (if using) to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Thicken and Flavor: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until it slightly thickens and the flavors have melded together. If using carrots, add them during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped scallions (if using) just before removing from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving. This Escovitch sauce is delicious served over freshly cooked fish, such as snapper or red snapper, or used as a marinade for chicken or other proteins.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet peppers to control the spiciness. Removing the seeds and membranes significantly reduces the heat.
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preference. For a less sweet sauce, use only 1 tablespoon.
- Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or celery.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of grated lime or orange zest for a brighter flavor.
- Ginger: A small piece of grated ginger adds a lovely warmth to the sauce.
- Storage: Store leftover Escovitch sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for personalized results.
- Calories: Approximately 100-150 calories
- Fat: Low
- Protein: Low
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This easy Escovitch sauce recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your everyday meals. It's packed with flavor and is incredibly versatile, making it a must-try for anyone who enjoys delicious dishes and exploring new food recipes. Enjoy this taste of Jamaica!