Quick Tomato Chili Sauce(A Shortcut)
A vibrant, savory tomato chili sauce with a balanced sweet and spicy flavor profile, perfect for enhancing grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a condiment for casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peeled and chopped tomatoes, chopped celery, onions, green pepper, and salt; let stand overnight.
- Drain the vegetable mixture well, but do not press out the liquid.
- Add the remaining ingredients, including spices tied in a bag.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes or longer if you want a thicker sauce.
- Pour the hot sauce into pint jars and process in boiling water for 10 minutes to preserve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier sauce, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can increase the brown sugar slightly. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also enhance the flavor. Ensure to chop your vegetables evenly for consistent cooking. This recipe can be adapted for vegan recipes by replacing sugar with an alternative like agave syrup.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick Tomato Chili Sauce is perfect as a condiment for grilled meats or as a base for chili. It pairs beautifully with Nanny'S Cole Slaw for a refreshing crunch. Use it as a dipping sauce for appetizers or drizzle over tacos for added flavor. It also enhances pasta dishes, providing a zesty kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili sauce in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply pour the sauce into a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce in freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Tomato Chili Sauce(A Shortcut) contains roughly 471 calories, with 11g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (296% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value), and potassium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1575mg per serving (68% 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 use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Just ensure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in your sauce. Canned tomatoes can provide a rich flavor, especially if you choose whole or diced varieties without added ingredients.
How long will the sauce last once canned?
When properly canned and sealed, the sauce can last for up to one year in a cool, dark place. Always check for signs of spoilage, such as a bulging lid or off smell, before consuming. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within two weeks.
Can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
Absolutely! You can easily customize the spice level by adding more or less pepper, or by incorporating different spices like cayenne or red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce as it simmers to find the right balance of heat that suits your palate.
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).