Get ready to elevate your culinary game with a burst of vibrant flavor! This Mexican Spicy Red Chile Sauce is not just any condiment—it's a fiery blend that will transform your tacos, enchiladas, and countless other dishes into a fiesta of taste. Imagine the rich, smoky aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this authentic sauce, made from dried New Mexico red chiles and a medley of spices. In just under an hour, you can whip up a batch of this luscious sauce that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Are you ready to dive into the world of bold Mexican flavors? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 3 cups
Ingredients
- 12 dried New Mexico red chiles
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the dried New Mexico red chiles. Remove the stems and seeds from each chile. This will help reduce the bitterness and make the sauce smoother.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the prepared chiles to the water. Reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chiles are soft and pliable.
- While the chiles are simmering, heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Once the chiles are softened, drain them from the water, reserving about 1/2 cup of the soaking liquid. Transfer the chiles to a blender or food processor.
- Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the blender with the chiles. Then, add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, and the reserved soaking liquid. Blend until you achieve a smooth sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add more of the soaking liquid or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet over medium heat. Season with salt to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have developed, remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before using or storing.
- This Mexican Spicy Red Chile Sauce can be used immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage. Enjoy your homemade sauce with tacos, enchiladas, or as a base for other dishes!
Tips
- Choosing Chiles: For the best flavor, look for high-quality dried New Mexico red chiles. They should be pliable and have a vibrant color. If you prefer a milder sauce, consider using fewer chiles or removing more seeds.
- Soaking Time: Don’t rush the soaking process! Allow the chiles to simmer until they are soft. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and rich sauce.
- Adjusting Thickness: If you find the sauce too thick after blending, simply add more of the reserved soaking liquid or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You can also add a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Storage: This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week, and it freezes beautifully! Consider making a double batch so you always have some on hand for your next meal.
- Serving Suggestions: Use this versatile sauce to enhance your favorite Mexican dishes, or drizzle it over grilled meats and veggies for an instant flavor upgrade.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 35kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
