Creamy Smoked Paprika Sauce

Name: Creamy Smoked Paprika Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

25 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

A rich and flavourful sauce with smoky undertones, perfect for enhancing grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or pasta dishes.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Creamy Smoked Paprika Sauce is a decadent addition to any dish, offering a balance of creaminess and smokiness. This sauce is perfect for those who love a bit of spice and a lot of flavour in their meals. Whether you're a fan of grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or looking for a new pasta sauce, this recipe has something for everyone. The secret to this sauce's depth lies in the smoked paprika, which infuses a rich, earthy flavour that's irresistible. Combined with the creaminess of heavy cream and the tang of garlic, this sauce is both sophisticated and comforting. It's ideal for home cooks seeking to impress guests or elevate everyday meals.

Instructions

Sauté onions

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure onions are finely chopped for a smoother sauce.

Add garlic

Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Pro tip: Stir continuously to prevent garlic from burning.

Incorporate paprika

Stir in smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the paprika's flavours.

Pro tip: Adjust the amount of paprika to taste if you prefer a stronger smoky flavour.

Add cream

Lower the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine.

Pro tip: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce.

Simmer sauce

Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.

Pro tip: Do not let the sauce boil to prevent curdling.

Finish with lemon juice

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Pro tip: Lemon juice adds brightness to balance the richness of the sauce.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavour.
Adjust the thickness by altering the amount of cream.
Smoked paprika adds depth; sweet paprika can be a milder substitute.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is creamy smoked paprika sauce?

It's a rich and flavourful sauce made with smoked paprika, heavy cream, and garlic, often used to enhance meats and vegetables.

Can I use sweet paprika instead of smoked?

Yes, sweet paprika can be used, but it will result in a milder flavour without the smoky undertones.

How long does creamy smoked paprika sauce last?

It lasts up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

What can I serve with this sauce?

Serve it over grilled meats, fish, roasted vegetables, or as a pasta sauce.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Creamy Smoked Paprika Sauce over grilled chicken or fish for a delightful meal. Pair it with roasted potatoes or drizzled over steamed vegetables to add a burst of flavour. This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain its creamy texture. It also freezes well if you want to prepare a larger batch and enjoy it later.