If you’re a fan of Southern cuisine, you’ve probably heard the buzz around lemon pepper wet sauce.
Its vibrant burst of citrus combined with a peppery kick makes it versatile enough to enhance wings, seafood, or even grilled vegetables. This sauce is popular for its strong taste and easy preparation which makes it a favorite for home cooks and food lovers.
Whether you’re having a party or just want to enhance your meal, this sauce adds a delightful flavor that will surely impress. So, without wasting any time, let’s dive into making your own batch of lemon pepper wet sauce.
What Is Lemon Pepper Wet Sauce and Why Is It So Special?
Lemon pepper wet sauce is a twist on the classic dry lemon pepper seasoning. It started in Southern kitchens and is especially loved in Atlanta. This wet version mixes lemon zest, cracked pepper, and butter.
What sets lemon pepper wet sauce apart is its balance of flavors. The lemon gives it a fresh, tangy flavor, and the pepper adds a little spice. The addition of butter not only enriches the sauce but also gives it a velvety texture. This perfect blend of flavors and textures is what makes it a must-try for any food enthusiast.
Apart from its taste, lemon pepper wet sauce is incredibly versatile. It’s not just for chicken wings—you can drizzle it on roasted veggies, mix it with pasta, or use it as a marinade. The options are endless which makes it a popular choice for any meal.
Ingredients Needed for Lemon Pepper Wet Sauce
Making the perfect lemon pepper wet sauce needs just a few ingredients, many of which you might already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Lemons (2 large)
- Black pepper (1 tablespoon cracked)
- Butter (1/2 cup or 1 stick)
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
- Honey (1 tablespoon)
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
- Water (1/4 cup)
Combining these ingredients will create a luscious and dynamic sauce that elevates any dish it accompanies.
Nutritional Information of this Sauce
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional information per serving of lemon pepper wet sauce, crafted to give clarity and insight into what this flavorful addition entails:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 85 | 4% |
| Total Fat | 8g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 20mg | 7% |
| Sodium | 150mg | 6% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 4g | 1% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g | 0% |
| Sugars | 3g | – |
| Protein | 0g | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 6mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 4mg | 0% |
| Iron | 0.2mg | 1% |
The nutrition figures are estimates and might change a bit based on different ingredient brands and how you prepare them.
Equipment Needed
To whip up this delicious sauce, you don’t need fancy equipment. Here’s a list of basic kitchen tools that will make your preparation seamless:
- Zester or Grater
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
- Small Saucepan
- Mixing Spoon or Whisk
- Sieve or Mesh Strainer
- Storage Container
Recipe for Lemon Pepper Wet Sauce
Ready to create your own lemon pepper wet sauce? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious sauce in no time:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
First, get all your ingredients ready to make cooking easier. Use a zester or grater to get the lemon zest for the sauce’s citrus flavor. Next, crack the black pepper for a spicy touch. Cut the butter into small pieces so it melts evenly.
Step 2: Start the Sauce
Place a small saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely, then reduce the heat to low. Add lemon zest and cracked black pepper to the melted butter. Stir gently to mix the flavors and let the butter soak up the lemony, peppery taste.
Step 3: Add Flavor Enhancers
Add the garlic powder, honey, and salt to the butter mixture. This will add depth and a touch of sweetness to balance out the tangy and spicy flavors. Continue stirring to ensure everything is well blended and the honey is completely dissolved.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the water to thin the sauce slightly. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for a few minutes. Stir now and then, and watch it thicken as the flavors mix. This step is key for getting the smooth texture that lemon pepper wet sauce is famous for.
Step 5: Strain and Store
When the sauce is thick enough, take it off the heat. Pour it through a strainer into a container so it’s smooth and has no bits. Let it cool before closing the container. You can keep the sauce in the fridge for a few days and use it on your favorite meals.
Lemon Pepper Wet Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Airtight Container
Ingredients
- Lemons 2 large
- Black pepper 1 tablespoon cracked
- Butter 1/2 cup or 1 stick
- Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
- Honey 1 tablespoon
- Salt 1/2 teaspoon
- Water 1/4 cup
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- First, get all your ingredients ready to make cooking easier. Use a zester or grater to get the lemon zest for the sauce’s citrus flavor. Next, crack the black pepper for a spicy touch. Cut the butter into small pieces so it melts evenly.
Step 2: Start the Sauce
- Place a small saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely, then reduce the heat to low. Add lemon zest and cracked black pepper to the melted butter. Stir gently to mix the flavors and let the butter soak up the lemony, peppery taste.
Step 3: Add Flavor Enhancers
- Add the garlic powder, honey, and salt to the butter mixture. This will add depth and a touch of sweetness to balance out the tangy and spicy flavors. Continue stirring to ensure everything is well blended and the honey is completely dissolved.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
- Pour in the water to thin the sauce slightly. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for a few minutes. Stir now and then, and watch it thicken as the flavors mix. This step is key for getting the smooth texture that lemon pepper wet sauce is famous for.
Step 5: Strain and Store
- When the sauce is thick enough, take it off the heat. Pour it through a strainer into a container so it’s smooth and has no bits. Let it cool before closing the container. You can keep the sauce in the fridge for a few days and use it on your favorite meals.
Notes
Creative Ways to Serve Lemon Pepper Wet Sauce
Lemon pepper wet sauce’s versatility means it can enhance many dishes beyond chicken wings. Here are some creative ideas to make the most of this tasty sauce:
- Chicken Wings: Mix freshly cooked chicken wings with lemon pepper wet sauce for a tasty starter. The sauce will soak into the crispy skin which makes each bite tangy and spicy.
- Grilled Seafood: Brush the sauce over grilled shrimp, scallops, or fish fillets. The citrusy, buttery sauce complements the natural flavors of seafood and adds a vibrant finish to your dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle the sauce over roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. The rich and tangy flavors of the sauce turn these simple veggie sides into something truly special.
- Pasta Dressing: Add the sauce to your favorite pasta dish for an unexpected twist. It can take the place of regular pasta sauces, giving a special mix of tangy and spicy flavors.
- Marinade for Meats: Use it as a marinade for chicken or meat. Marinating the meat in the lemon pepper wet sauce before cooking infuses it with flavors that seep through with every bite.
- Salad Dressing: Mix a small amount of the sauce into a salad dressing for a citrusy boost. It pairs well with green salads or cold pasta salads, adding a zingy, complex flavor profile.
- Breakfast Booster: Pour over scrambled eggs or omelets to make your breakfast more exciting and tasty. The tangy sauce adds a fresh twist to classic morning meals.
For a delightful culinary experience, try pairing this lemon pepper wet sauce with our Qdoba Black Beans or the Angry Crab Seafood Boil. The sauce goes well with these dishes and adds a bright and tangy taste to every bite.
Storage Suggestions
Did you make too much to eat at once? Here’s how to keep your lemon pepper wet sauce:
- Refrigeration: Store the cooled lemon pepper wet sauce in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay tasty and fresh for about a week. Make sure the lid is on tight so no smells get in and change the sauce’s taste.
- Freezing: To keep the sauce for a long time, you can freeze it. Put it in a container safe for freezing or in an ice cube tray to make it easy to use little by little. You can keep the sauce in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you want to use it, let it thaw in the fridge and warm it up gently before serving.
- Reheating: To reheat the sauce, use low heat on the stove and stir gently to maintain its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving directly, as it can cause the butter to separate.
Tips for Making Perfect Lemon Pepper Wet Sauce
Even the simplest recipes can benefit from a few expert tips:
- Watch the Heat: Melt the butter slowly on medium heat to keep it from burning or browning, which could change the taste of your sauce.
- Match the Tastes: Add more or less honey and salt to fit how you like it. If you want it spicier, toss in more cracked pepper.
- Consistency is Key: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water to reach the desired consistency. Conversely, simmer longer to thicken if it appears too thin.
- Taste as You Cook: Keep tasting the sauce while cooking to make sure the flavors are balanced. This allows you to make adjustments as needed.
- Experiment with Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an additional layer of flavor if desired.
By following these tips, you can make a tasty lemon pepper wet sauce that will improve any dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lemon pepper wet sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to any culinary repertoire. Whether you’re enhancing chicken wings, dressing a salad, or creating a delightful marinade, this sauce offers a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and sweet notes.
By following these steps and tips, you can easily make a sauce that will improve your dishes and add a lively touch to every meal. Have fun trying this tasty sauce in different ways and enjoy the special flavors it adds to your table.
FAQ
Can I make this sauce vegan?
Yes, you can make this lemon pepper sauce vegan by replacing the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or margarine. You can also use agave syrup or maple syrup in place of honey for a plant-friendly sweetness.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, lemon pepper wet sauce is naturally gluten-free as long as all the ingredients used are certified gluten-free. Be sure to check labels when purchasing spices and other ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To make the sauce spicier, simply increase the amount of cracked black pepper or add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will make it hotter and tastier. Change the amount to fit your taste for the perfect spice level.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, but the taste might be less strong. Use the same amount of bottled juice as fresh, and you can add a little lemon zest or lemon extract to boost the citrus flavor
Can I use this sauce as a dip?
Sure, lemon pepper wet sauce is awesome as a dip for snacks like chicken tenders, fried calamari, or veggie sticks. Its tangy and spicy taste gives a fun kick to any dipping moment.
Is there a way to reduce the tanginess?
If the sauce is too tangy for your taste, try using less lemon juice and zest. You can also add a bit more honey or brown sugar to balance the acidity and soften the sharp citrus flavor.
What are some alternative uses for this sauce?
You can use lemon pepper wet sauce in lots of ways. Try it on grilled corn, mix it into mashed potatoes for more flavor, or drizzle it over popcorn for a tasty change. It’s great on many different foods.
