Basil Pesto Sauce

Ingredients(for 2 tablespoons per serving)

• 2 cups Fresh basil leaves (daun selasih)
• 1/3 cup Roasted peanuts (kacang tanah panggang) (substitute for pine nuts)
• 2 Garlic cloves (bawang putih)
• 1/3 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup Freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Lime juice (jus limau nipis)
• 1 tablespoon Lemongrass (serai), finely chopped - optional
• 1 small leaf Pandan leaf (optional, for aroma) - optional
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/8 teaspoon Black pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Wash and pat dry the basil leaves and pandan leaf. Chop the lemongrass finely.

   5 minutes

   Use only the tender parts of lemongrass to avoid fibrous texture.

2. 2

   Place roasted peanuts, garlic, basil leaves, chopped lemongrass, and pandan leaf into a food processor.

   3 minutes

   For a smoother sauce, pulse the nuts first before adding other ingredients.

3. 3

   Add lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until roughly blended.

   2 minutes

   Scrape down the sides for even blending.

4. 4

   While processing, gradually drizzle in extra-virgin olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth paste.

   5 minutes

   Add oil slowly for a creamy texture.