Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added tanginess)
Per serving
Calories: 220 kcal
Proteins: 1.5 g
Fats: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Method
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In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir well until you have a smooth and creamy base for the sauce.
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Add the chopped fresh parsley, dill, and chives to the mixture. These herbs provide the signature ranch flavor and add freshness to the sauce.
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Incorporate the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper into the mixture. These seasonings give the sauce its savory and slightly tangy taste.
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For an extra burst of flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the sauce. The lemon juice enhances the tanginess of the buttermilk and complements the other flavors.
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Stir all the ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you want it tangier, add more lemon juice. For more herbs, sprinkle some extra chopped parsley, dill, or chives.
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the sauce to a jar with a lid, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich taste.
Buttermilk ranch sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is commonly served as a dipping sauce for vegetables, chicken wings, or fries. It can also be drizzled over salads, used as a dressing for coleslaw, or even served as a condiment for sandwiches and burgers.
Buttermilk ranch sauce is a classic American condiment known for its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and herby notes. It is a staple in many households and restaurants due to its versatility and ability to elevate various dishes. The combination of buttermilk, herbs, and seasonings creates a balanced and delightful sauce that complements a wide range of foods.
Facts about Buttermilk Ranch Sauce:
- The term “ranch” in the name comes from the fact that this sauce was popularized on ranches in the American West before becoming widespread across the country.
- Buttermilk ranch sauce is said to have originated in the early 1950s on a California ranch owned by Steve Henson, who developed the recipe with his wife Gayle. They eventually served it to guests and named it “ranch dressing.”
- Commercial versions of ranch dressing often include additional preservatives and additives to extend shelf life, but making it from scratch allows you to enjoy a fresher and more wholesome version of the sauce.
- While buttermilk is the traditional base for ranch sauce, variations may use yogurt or other dairy products to achieve a similar texture and tangy flavor.