Chimichurri sauce originates from Argentina as a condiment for grilled meats. Combining fresh herbs and chiles, Umami Chimichurri Sauce works well as either a salsa or marinade.
| Prep Time: | 20 min |
| Total Time: | 20 min |
| Yield: | 2 cups |
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Rice Wine Vinegar (seasoned)
- Pinch of Kosher Salt
- 3 – 4 Garlic cloves
- 1 Shallot, roughly chopped
- 1 Red Jalapeño or Serrano chile, seeds and veins removed, roughly chopped
- 1 bunch fresh Cilantro
- 1 bunch fresh Flat-leaf (Italian) Parsley
- 1/3 cup fresh Oregano
- 1/4 cup Walnut halves or Hemp Hearts (optional)
- 2 tsp Agave Nectar
- 1 – 2 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar (aged 4 – 6 years if available)
- 1/4 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Preparation
- Strip leaves from stems of fresh herbs. Place leaves in the bowl of a food processor. Add garlic, roughly chopped shallot, and chile. (Optional: add walnuts if using as a salsa.) Pulse to chop. Add rice wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, agave, and balsamic vinegar. With processor running, drizzle in EVOO. Stop the processor as soon as the sauce is combined. Do not over process. You may serve immediately or let rest for flavors to meld.
- If using chimichurri as a marinade, reserve ½ cup sauce for service. Put meat in a glass or ceramic dish or zipper bag. Toss with marinade. Cover and chill for at least 3 hours or overnight. Remove meat from marinade, pat dry, and grill. Offer reserved sauce with the service of grilled meat.
