Ingredients
- Sour cream 1 cup: This forms the base and gives the sauce a cool, creamy body that balances the heat. For a healthier spin, use Greek yogurt.
- Mayonnaise ¼ cup: Adds richness and helps smooth out the texture.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 2 whole peppers + 1 tbsp of the sauce: These provide that signature smoky heat. You can adjust the quantity based on how fiery you like it.
- Garlic 2 cloves, minced or roasted: The garlic deepens the flavor, especially if you roast it first.
- Fresh lime juice 1 tbsp: A bright, citrusy note to cut through the richness.
- Smoked paprika ½ tsp: Enhances the smoky profile.
- Cumin ½ tsp: Gives it an earthy, slightly warm background.
- Salt ½ tsp, or to taste: Balances all the flavors.
- Olive oil 1 tbsp, optional: Helps with consistency if needed.
Instructions
Prep the garlic and chipotles
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If you want a mellower garlic flavor, roast the garlic in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until golden and soft. Roughly chop the chipotle peppers so they blend easier.
Blend the base
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In your blender or food processor, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, lime juice, paprika, cumin, and salt. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth. This should take about 30–60 seconds depending on your blender.
Taste and adjust
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Give the sauce a quick taste. Want more heat? Add another half a pepper or a dash of the adobo sauce. Too spicy? Add more sour cream. You can also adjust salt and lime juice to your liking.
Check consistency
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If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of olive oil or a teaspoon of water to loosen it. Blend again briefly.
Store and chill
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Transfer the sauce to a glass jar or airtight container. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes if you can—it helps the flavors meld beautifully.