As the dinner hour approached, I couldn’t shake the feeling of culinary adventure calling me to the kitchen. The vibrant green color of fresh tomatillos caught my eye, sparking a desire for something truly special. That’s when I remembered Pipian Verde—a traditional Mexican sauce that transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. This hearty blend of pumpkin seeds, peanuts, and fresh greens fills the air with an irresistible aroma that beckons family and friends to gather around the table.

Whether you’re looking to impress with a flavorful chicken dish or whip up a quick vegan option that delights every palate, Pipian Verde is your go-to recipe. Its versatility means you can easily swap in your favorite protein or vegetables, making it a perfect fit for any meal. With a bit of simmering and blending, you’ll create a luscious, velvety sauce that not only elevates your dishes but also warms your heart. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring the spirit of Mexico to your kitchen!

Why is Pipian Verde a must-try?

Flavor Explosion: This vibrant sauce bursts with deep, nutty notes and a touch of spice that will have your taste buds dancing.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for chicken, pork, or even your favorite veggies, it easily adapts for any dietary preference, accommodating both meat lovers and vegans alike.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a stunning dish ready in no time, making it ideal for weeknight meals or entertaining guests.
Nutrient-Packed: Rich in healthy fats and protein, Pipian Verde makes wholesome eating effortless and delicious.
Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will gather around the table, drawn in by the savory aroma, eager to dig in as soon as the first bite hits their palate!
For those looking for more culinary inspiration, try exploring other sauce recipes.

Pipian Verde Ingredients

• Dive into making this flavorful Pipian Verde with ease!

For the Sauce

Tomatillos (cooked) – Base for the sauce; imparts acidity; can substitute with canned tomatillos if fresh ones are unavailable.
Chili Peppers (Poblano, Anaheim, or Jalapeño) – Adds heat; feel free to adjust type or quantity based on your spice preference.
Radish Leaves – Adds earthiness to the sauce; substitute with spinach or kale if radish leaves are hard to find.
Romaine Lettuce Leaves – Provides freshness; any leafy greens can work as a substitute.
Toasted Pepitas – Thickens the sauce and adds nuttiness; sunflower seeds can be used instead.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds richness; if needed, swap for extra pepitas or nuts.
Toasted Peanuts – Contributes creaminess to the sauce; almond or cashew substitutions work well too.
Cumin Seeds – Enhances depth of flavor; ground cumin can be used for convenience.
Black Peppercorns – For seasoning; ground black pepper is a great alternative for quicker use.

For the Chicken

Chicken Drumsticks – The main protein that soaks up all the sauce’s goodness; thighs or other meats are also great substitutes.
Onion – Adds flavor depth; yellow or white onions will both do the trick.
Garlic (cloves, skin on) – Enhances aroma and taste; fresh garlic brings out the best flavor.
Cilantro – Fresh herb for brightness; swap with parsley if cilantro isn’t appealing.
Bay Leaf – A subtle flavor enhancer; remember to remove before serving.
Salt – Essential for enhancing all flavors; adjust to your taste preference.

With these wholesome ingredients in hand, you’ll be ready to whip up a delightful Pipian Verde that brings joy and nourishment to your table!

How to Make Pipian Verde

Cook Chicken: Place chicken drumsticks in a large pot along with onion, garlic, bay leaf, cilantro, and salt. Cover with water, bring to a boil, and then simmer for 1 hour. Once done, set the chicken aside and strain the stock to remove solids.
Prepare Sauce: Boil the tomatillos until soft, which should take about 10 minutes, then drain. In a blender, combine the tomatillos with chili peppers, radish leaves, lettuce, toasted pepitas, peanuts, sesame seeds, cumin, black pepper, and garlic. Pour in 2.5 cups of the reserved chicken stock and blend until smooth and creamy.
Simmer Sauce: Pour the blended sauce into a pot, adding 1.5 cups of the remaining stock. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for 40 minutes, stirring regularly. Look for the sauce to thicken and oil to rise to the surface.
Combine: Gently add the cooked chicken back into the sauce and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes. This will meld all the flavors beautifully.
Serve: Spoon the flavorful Pipian Verde over a bed of fluffy Mexican white rice and serve with warm corn tortillas for dipping and scooping.

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Pipian Verde?

Creating the perfect meal is all about blending flavors, textures, and freshness. To enhance the flavors of your stunning Pipian Verde, consider these delightful side pairings.

Mexican White Rice:
This fluffy, aromatic side absorbs the vibrant Pipian Verde sauce, creating a comforting and filling combination that takes the meal to new heights.
Warm Corn Tortillas:
Soft, slightly charred tortillas are perfect for scooping up every last bite of Pipian Verde. Their subtle sweetness wonderfully complements the sauce’s rich flavors.
Roasted Vegetables:
Caramelized, crispy veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add a touch of earthy sweetness while providing a satisfying contrast to the creamy sauce texture.
Crispy Avocado Salad:
The cool, creamy avocado and crunchy greens in a simple lime dressing add a fresh, zesty element that lightens the meal, enhancing the sauce’s nuttiness.
Black Beans:
Rich in protein, seasoned black beans balance the dish with their hearty texture, bringing a traditional Mexican touch that complements the Pipian Verde beautifully.
Chilled Mexican Beer:
Pairing with a light, refreshing Mexican lager enhances the flavors and rounds out the meal, while adding a festive, thirst-quenching element.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a delicious, satisfying feast that will leave everyone eager for more!

Expert Tips

Adjusting Spice Level: Choose milder chili peppers and adjust their quantity to suit your heat preference, ensuring everyone can enjoy the Pipian Verde.
Blending Smoothness: For an ultra-smooth sauce, blend longer! The more time your ingredients mix, the silkier your final Pipian Verde will be.
Flavorful Stock: Make sure to strain the chicken stock thoroughly. Impurities can affect the sauce’s flavor, so take this step to elevate your dish.
Ingredient Swaps: Don’t hesitate to substitute radish leaves with spinach or kale. This keeps your Pipian Verde vibrant and nutritious, even with fewer options!
Serving Presentation: A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime will not only enhance the flavor but also add a touch of color to your dish.

Pipian Verde Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delicious twists!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or potatoes, using vegetable stock for a hearty vegan dish. These options still soak up that wonderful flavor!
Seafood Sensation: Swap the protein for shrimp or fish to introduce a fresh, ocean-inspired take on Pipian Verde, creating a delightful balance between creamy and savory.
Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute peanuts and pepitas with sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies while still achieving a tasty, nutty flavor.
Spice It Up: Add more chilies or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who crave a little extra heat; this can make your dish sing with fiery flavor!
Creamy Twist: Incorporate a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of sour cream after blending the sauce; it’ll create a lovely creaminess that pairs perfectly with the sauce’s richness.
Earthy Enhancement: Toss in some cooked quinoa or black beans along with the vegetables for added texture and a nutritious boost that complements the sauce beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the freshness by using fresh herbs like mint or dill in lieu of, or alongside, cilantro for a unique aromatic flavor that takes the dish to new heights.
Cheesy Variation: Sprinkle in some crumbled queso fresco or substitute with vegan cheese for a creamy, salty contrast that adds richness to each spoonful.

With these variations, Pipian Verde can easily adapt to any mood or dietary preference. Enjoy experimenting!

How to Store and Freeze Pipian Verde

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to let the sauce cool before sealing to preserve its freshness.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy your Pipian Verde later, freeze it for up to 4 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers for easy reheating.

Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw the sauce overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of stock to restore consistency and avoid drying out.

Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave Pipian Verde at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and the best flavor.

Make Ahead Options

Pipian Verde is not just a delightful sauce; it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken and sauce components up to 24 hours in advance. First, cook the chicken as directed and store it in an airtight container along with the strained stock. For the sauce, blend all the ingredients and refrigerate in a separate container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a pot and add the cooked chicken, simmering for about 10 minutes to meld all those wonderful flavors. This way, your Pipian Verde stays just as delicious, making dinnertime a breeze!

Pipian Verde Recipe FAQs

What ripeness level should the tomatillos be for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Choose tomatillos that are firm and bright green, without dark spots or blemishes. They should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed, signaling ripeness and ideal flavor. Avoid any that are overly soft or shriveled, as these may lack the fresh, tart taste that makes Pipian Verde shine.

How do I store leftover Pipian Verde?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain its freshness. I often label the container with the date so I know when it was made. If you’re looking to keep it longer, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze Pipian Verde? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your Pipian Verde, first let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. It can be stored for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat slowly on the stove, adding a splash of stock as necessary to bring it back to its original creamy consistency.

What if my Pipian Verde is too thick?
No worries! If your sauce turns out too thick after cooking, simply stir in a little reserved chicken stock or water until it reaches your desired consistency. If you like a smoother texture, blend it again after adding the liquid. Remember, a well-blended sauce should feel luxurious and velvety!

Are there any common allergies associated with Pipian Verde?
Be mindful! This recipe includes peanuts, which can be a major allergen for some individuals. If you’re cooking for someone with a peanut allergy, you can simply substitute the toasted peanuts with sunflower seeds or another nut-free option. Always check with your guests to ensure everyone can safely enjoy the meal.

Can I make Pipian Verde vegan-friendly?
Of course! To create a vegan version, replace the chicken with hearty veggies like squash, mushrooms, or potatoes and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. This way, you can still enjoy the rich flavors of Pipian Verde while accommodating plant-based diets!