Mom'S Picante Sauce
A vibrant, spicy homemade pico de gallo-style sauce with roasted vegetables and smoky heat, perfect for adding flavor to chips, tacos, and grilled dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place each vegetable in a food processor one at a time to chop.
- Transfer chopped vegetables to a large saucepan and add seasonings.
- Cook over medium heat for 30 minutes.
- Pour into pint jars, seal, and process in boiling water for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother sauce, blend the ingredients longer in the food processor. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider reducing the amount of jalapenos or using mild bell peppers instead. You can also substitute fresh tomatoes with canned diced tomatoes if you’re short on time. This recipe is a great base for other Mexican recipes, so feel free to experiment with additional spices like cumin or cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious picante sauce as a dip with tortilla chips or drizzle it over tacos or burritos for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Julie'S Yummy Salsa for a vibrant appetizer spread. You can also use it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or mix it into chili for an extra kick. Enjoy it with fresh cilantro and lime for a refreshing twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover picante sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in freezer-safe bags or jars for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Picante Sauce contains roughly 538 calories, with 10g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 710mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
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 adjust the spice level of the sauce?
Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level to your liking. If you want a milder sauce, reduce the amount of jalapenos or remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. For a spicier kick, consider adding a few more jalapenos or even some diced serrano peppers.
How long does this sauce last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this picante sauce can last for about a week. Make sure to keep it sealed tightly to maintain freshness. If you notice any off smells or changes in color, it's best to discard it.
Can I can this picante sauce for longer storage?
Yes, you can safely can this picante sauce using proper canning techniques. After cooking, pour the hot sauce into sterilized pint jars, seal them, and process in boiling water for 15 minutes to ensure a good seal and preservation for up to a year.
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).