Simple Trini chadon beni sauce

10.7.23 | Recipe by Renz


Chadon Beni Sauce is a beloved condiment in Trinbagonian cuisine. Its bold flavors elevate any dish it's added to, making it a popular topping for everything from doubles to BBQ. Making your own chadon beni sauce is a great way to enjoy this flavorful sauce at home, and it's incredibly easy to do so with a few simple ingredients and a food processor.

   
Mixed chadon beni sauce with a bunch of fresh chadon beni leaves on top of a board with a slice of lemon.



Hey there, foodie friends! Today, I am beyond excited to bring to you another favorite sauce that has become a heavy part of Trinidad and Tobago's vibrant cuisine. One thing that truly sets our dishes apart is the incredible array of sauces that we use as condiments.

These sauces, bursting with Caribbean spices and local flavors, have become an integral part of our culinary culture. Whether you're savoring hearty doubles, indulging in a juicy bake and shark, or relishing the fiery heat of a roti, our sauces elevate every bite, adding that perfect touch of tang and heat.

So, join me as we embark on a tantalizing adventure, starting with the star of the show - Trini chadon beni sauce, the beloved green condiment that's a staple in many Trinbagonian households!

    

When it comes to Trinbagonian cuisine, we take our sauces seriously. They are not just an afterthought; they are the soul of our meals, infusing them with bold and unforgettable flavors. Our love for sauces is deeply rooted in our diverse heritage, which blends African, Indian, Spanish, and indigenous influences. 

This unique fusion has given rise to a wide range of sauces, each boasting its own distinct character and purpose.

From the fiery heat of Trini pepper sauce to the zesty tang of tamarind chutney, there's a sauce for every taste bud and occasion. These condiments not only enhance the flavors of our dishes but also add a  vibrant pop of color to our plates. We Trinis believe that a meal without sauce is like a day without sunshine - it's simply incomplete!

Now, let's turn our attention to the star of our show today - the delectable Trini chadon beni sauce. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds as we dive into the recipe for this beloved green goodness using the popular herb.

It's time to bring the flavors of Trinidad and Tobago into your kitchen and embark on a culinary adventure that will transport you to our sunny shores. Are you ready? Let's get saucy, my friends!

What is Chadon Beni Sauce


This sauce is a very popular condiment. It is a unique and flavorful sauce that is commonly used in dishes to add an extra layer of taste.

  
A doubles with chadon beni sauce, tamarind chutney and cucumber chutney.
Doubles with cucumber chutney and chadon beni sauce.


If you are looking for more in-depth detail on chadon beni itself, then make sure you go check out my article on what is chadon beni and how it can be used and stored.

The ingredients commonly used in making this sauce include the chadon beni leaves, and other spices and seasonings. Some recipes also call for hot peppers to add some extra heat to the sauce. The sauce is very easy to prepare.

Apart from its ability to add flavor to dishes, the sauce also possesses numerous health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals and is known to have digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. It is low in calories and can be used as a healthy alternative to other high-calorie condiments.

Ingredients needed for chadon beni sauce


Making your own sauce is a great way to enjoy this flavorful sauce at home. It is incredibly easy to do so with a few simple ingredients and a food processor or a blender.

  
Ingredients needed to make chadon beni sauce portioned out.


Here are the ingredients used to make:

  • Chadon beni/culantro leaves - the main star of the show.
  • Garlic cloves - To enhance the flavor of the sauce.
  • Hot pepper - brings the heat. Feel free to use any type of hot pepper you like.
  • Fresh lime juice - is essential to balance the flavors and add a tangy taste.
  • Salt - helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients in the sauce.

Equipment


It's important to gather all your equipment before starting to make the sauce so that you have everything on hand and the process is smooth and efficient.

Firstly, a food processor or a blender is a must-have to blend all the ingredients to a smooth consistency. This ensures that all the ingredients are thoroughly blended and the sauce has a smooth texture. It will make the blending process quick and easy.

A sharp chef's knife and a cutting board are also necessary to prep your ingredients precisely. You will need to chop the cloves of garlic, the peppers, and the Chadon Beni (culantro) leaves, so a good quality knife and cutting board are essential.

You will also need a bowl to mix the ingredients and a jar with a lid for storing the finished sauce. Make sure the jar has a secure lid that fits tightly to ensure freshness.

How to make chadon beni sauce


To make this delicious sauce, here are the very easy step-by-step instructions:

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Begin by washing the chadon beni (culantro) leaves, celery, thyme, pepper, lime, and cloves garlic thoroughly. Remove any dirt or debris and pat them dry.
  2. Chop the ingredients: Once the ingredients are dry, start chopping them into small pieces. The garlic, and hot pepper should be finely chopped. Cut the chadon beni (culantro) leave into rough pieces.

      
    Chopped up ingredients on a blue cutting board.



  3. Blend the ingredients: Place all the chopped ingredients into a blender or food processor and blend them until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend the ingredients in batches, leaving some chunks in the mixture.

      
    A hand holding ingredients in a mini food processor to be chopped up.



  4. Add optional ingredients: To enhance the flavor of the sauce, you can add optional ingredients like more hot peppers, thyme, and green onions. Add a small pinch of these ingredients to the mixture and blend it again until everything is combined.


There you go. You easily made your very own chadon beni sauce that is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.

   

Completed blending of the herbs and spices.

Ways to use


Enjoy the sauce: Trini chadon beni sauce is perfect for a dipping sauce, adding some to meats, or even as a salad dressing.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different dishes to find your favorite way to use the sauce.

Best way to store chado beni sauce


When it comes to chadon beni sauce, the key to maintaining its delicious flavor and consistency is proper storage. Whether you make it from scratch or purchase it from a grocery store, it is important to store it in the best way possible.

Place the sauce in an airtight container. This will help prevent bacteria or mold growth, which can ruin the sauce and make it unsafe to consume. Glass jars or bottles with tight-fitting lids work well for this purpose, as they will keep the sauce fresh for a longer period of time. I always like to use mason jars for this, making sure that the covers are clean and free of rust.

It is recommended to refrigerate the sauce immediately after making it. This will help maintain its flavor and consistency. This is best if you are going to have it for continuous, immediate use.

If you need to store it for a longer period of time, consider freezing it. The sauce will keep for several months in the freezer and will not lose its flavor or consistency. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave a little room at the top for expansion.

Also, try to store it away from strong-smelling foods. By following these simple storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious taste for weeks or even months to come.

   
Overhead shot of the sauce showing the consistency.



Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can transport yourself to the sunny shores of the Caribbean with every mouthful.

So go ahead, give it a try, and let the flavors of Trini Chadon Beni Sauce transport you to foodie paradise!




Here are some other delectable Caribbean sauces:


Trini garlic sauce
Sorrel BBQ sauce
Green seasoning
Jerk marinade






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