Provençal Sauce is another term used often for la sauce Vierge, or Vierge Sauce. It is technically a vinaigrette or a salsa made of tomatoes, olives, capers, green onion, chives, basil and olive oil. Vierge Sauce is delicious served over grilled fish, chicken or pasta to make a pasta salad.
Discovering the Delightful Flavors of Provencal Sauce
When it comes to French cuisine, Provencal sauce is a standout star. This flavorful sauce originates from the Provence region of France and is known for its aromatic blend of herbs and fresh ingredients. Let’s delve into the delightful world of Provencal sauce and uncover what makes it so special.
Provencal sauce, also known as sauce Provençale, hails from the sunny Provence region in the southeast of France. This sauce is a celebration of the region’s bountiful produce and vibrant culinary traditions. The key ingredients in Provencal sauce typically include:
- Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes form the base of this sauce, lending it a rich and tangy flavor.
- Garlic: A generous amount of garlic adds a pungent kick to the sauce, infusing it with a delightful aroma.
- Herbs: Provencal sauce is renowned for its fragrant blend of herbs, such as thyme, oregano, and basil, which contribute to its distinctive taste.
- Olives: The briny, earthy flavor of olives adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
- Onions: Sweet, caramelized onions are often included to enhance the savory profile of the sauce.
Flavor Profile and Uses
Provencal sauce is characterized by its bold, herbaceous flavors and bright, Mediterranean-inspired taste. The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs creates a sauce that is both robust and refreshing. This versatile sauce can be used in a variety of ways, including:
- As a Pasta Sauce: Toss cooked pasta in Provencal sauce for a simple yet satisfying meal bursting with flavor.
- With Grilled Meats: Use Provencal sauce as a marinade or topping for grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables to infuse them with a taste of the Mediterranean.
- On Pizzas: Spread Provencal sauce on pizza dough as a delicious alternative to traditional tomato sauce, and top with your favorite ingredients for a gourmet twist.
- As a Dipping Sauce: Serve Provencal sauce alongside crusty bread or as a dip for appetizers to add a zesty kick to your meal.
How to Make Provencal Sauce
FAQ
Can you buy Provencal sauce?
What is another name for tomato sauce?
What is Creole sauce made from?
What is Provençal sauce made out of?
Provencal sauce is traditionally made from a base of tomatoes and Provençal herbs and spices. From there, ingredients can differ from recipe to recipe, although sautéed onions, garlic, capers, and olives are commonly used. Some recipes also call for white wine, butter, olive oil, stock, or lemon juice too.
What is Provence sauce?
(Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.) Provençale sauce is a fragrant tomato sauce made with sautéed onions, garlic, capers, olives, and herbes de Provence.
What does Provencal sauce taste like?
Provencal sauce is a herbaceous tasting tomato sauce with a distinct Mediterranean flavor. It tastes somewhat earthy and nutty, a little sweet and somewhat bitter. Although the true flavors of the sauce will vary by the sauce.
What is Provencal sauce used for?
Provencal Sauce is best when served over meat, poultry (primarily chicken), or fish (such as baked cod). Although it can also be used as a base to make other sauces too. Some people have been known to use it as a pasta sauce or served with vegetables.