Ambrosia Sauce is an iconic condiment from Nepenthe, a legendary restaurant perched high above the Pacific Ocean in Big Sur, California. Famous for its breathtaking views and signature dishes, Nepenthe’s Ambrosiaburger, featuring the flavorful Ambrosia Sauce, stands out as a quintessential taste of the region. In this article, we’ll explore how to recreate this delightful sauce at home and savor a slice of Big Sur’s charm in your own kitchen.

The Origin of Ambrosia Sauce and Nepenthe

Nepenthe isn’t just celebrated for its food; it’s a place where culinary artistry meets a storied history. Established by the Fassett family, the restaurant is renowned for its stunning location and cultural significance. The Ambrosiaburger, with its distinct sauce, captures the essence of Nepenthe’s unique blend of simplicity and sophistication.

How to Make Ambrosia Sauce

The sauce is deceptively simple but packs a remarkable flavor punch. Here’s how you can prepare it:

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Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup tomato sauce
¼ cup mild green salsa

Instructions

Combine the mayonnaise, tomato sauce, and green salsa in a bowl.
Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well-blended.
Serve fresh to complement your favorite dishes.

This creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce is incredibly versatile and works not only on burgers but also as a dip or spread for grilled sandwiches.

Crafting the Perfect Ambrosiaburger

While the sauce is the star, the Ambrosiaburger itself is a masterpiece of careful preparation:

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Ingredients

1 ½ lbs of fresh, coarse ground beef (low fat)
4 fresh steak rolls, buttered and toasted
Lettuce, sliced tomato, onion, and cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

Form the beef into four six-ounce patties with rough, cracked edges to enhance flavor.
Cook on a medium-hot open brazier, turning only once. Add cheese toward the end to avoid slowing the cooking process.
Toast the buns alongside the burgers for added flavor and texture.
Assemble the burger by layering fresh lettuce, tomato, onion, and a generous dollop of Ambrosia Sauce.

The Nepenthe Experience at Home

Recreating the Ambrosiaburger at home isn’t just about the food; it’s about capturing a piece of the Nepenthe experience. Imagine dining on the restaurant’s veranda with the ocean stretching endlessly below, then bring that ambiance into your home. Pair your burger with a crisp green salad and fries for a complete meal.

Whether you’ve visited Nepenthe or dream of going someday, the Ambrosia Sauce and burger can transport you to the heart of Big Sur with every bite.

Enjoy your journey to Big Sur, one delicious bite at a time!