Easy Algerian Sauce (Sauce Algerienne) Recipe
Easy Algerian Sauce, also known as Sauce Algerienne, is a vibrant and flavorful condiment made with mayonnaise, harissa paste, and fresh herbs. This versatile sauce adds a spicy, tangy kick to sandwiches, grilled meats, and fries. Ready in just 5 minutes, it perfectly balances creamy, spicy, and zesty flavors for an authentic North African touch.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Algerian
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 small red onion, very finely chopped (about half a cup)
- 2 Tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1-2 crushed cloves garlic
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 Tablespoons lemon juice, to taste
- 3-6 Tablespoons harissa paste (3 for mild-medium spice, up to 6 for hot)
- 1.5 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Prepare fresh ingredients: Finely chop the red onion, chop the cilantro, and crush one clove of garlic. Add these to a small to medium-sized glass bowl.
- Combine base ingredients: Add the mayonnaise, one tablespoon of lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of harissa paste, tomato paste, ground cumin, and sugar to the bowl. Whisk thoroughly with a fork or balloon whisk until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and customize the flavor to your preference. Add up to one more tablespoon of lemon juice for extra tang, an additional crushed garlic clove for more garlicky depth, and up to three extra tablespoons of harissa paste if you desire a spicier sauce. Keep in mind the sauce will intensify in flavor as it sits.
- Rest the sauce: Use immediately or for best flavor, refrigerate the sauce for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Notes
- The sauce can be made milder or hotter by adjusting the quantity of harissa paste.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Perfect accompaniment for grilled meats, sandwiches, and fries.
- Flavor improves after resting for at least an hour.
