Mexican Tomato Sauce(Yields About 7 Quarts)
A vibrant and spicy Mexican tomato sauce with roasted chile peppers, perfect for enhancing tacos, burritos, or as a flavorful condiment for various dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wear rubber gloves while handling chiles or wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your face.
- Roast or prepare the chile peppers as desired.
- Core and chop the tomatoes.
- In a large pot, combine the chopped tomatoes, chile peppers, chopped onions, salt, and oregano.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for about 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and sauce thickens.
- Add vinegar and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Allow the sauce to cool slightly, then blend if a smoother consistency is desired.
- Pour into sterilized jars or containers and store in the refrigerator or process in a water bath for longer shelf life.
Tips & Substitutions
When handling chile peppers, wearing rubber gloves is essential to avoid irritation. For a milder sauce, consider using fewer chiles or replacing some with bell peppers. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, canned tomatoes can be used as a substitute. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of sugar if the sauce tastes too acidic. This sauce pairs well with Mexican recipes like tacos or enchiladas.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexican Tomato Sauce is a versatile base that can be used for various dishes. Serve it over grilled meats, mix it into chili, or use it as a dipping sauce for Homemade Tortillas. It also works well as a topping for nachos or as a component in Fat-Free Guacamole Dip. Pair it with sides like rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to sterilized jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, process in a water bath canner to seal the jars properly. When reheating, heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Tomato Sauce(Yields About 7 Quarts) contains roughly 95 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this tomato sauce for later use?
Yes, this sauce freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
To modify the spiciness, you can reduce the amount of chile peppers used or opt for milder varieties. Additionally, you can add a bit of sugar to balance the heat if needed. Tasting as you go will help you find the right balance.
What types of tomatoes work best for this sauce?
Roma tomatoes are ideal for sauces due to their low moisture content and rich flavor. However, you can use other varieties like vine-ripened or beefsteak tomatoes as well. Just ensure they are ripe for the best taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).