Red Chili Sauce
A vibrant and spicy red chili sauce with bold flavors, perfect for enhancing Mexican dishes, tacos, or grilled meats with a touch of heat and depth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat shortening in a skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chili powder and cook for 1 more minute.
- Gradually add water while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Add seasonings and simmer on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using a blend of different red chili powders. If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the flour slightly. To reduce the heat, start with 1/4 cup of chili powder and adjust to taste. Consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance the heat if desired. This sauce can also be used as a base for Mexican recipes like enchiladas or tacos.
Serving Suggestions
This red chili sauce is versatile and can be served over Mexican-Style Tacos or used as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Soup-In-A-Hurry or drizzled over grilled vegetables. For a complete meal, serve it alongside rice and beans for a satisfying spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover red chili sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency. You can also add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Chili Sauce contains roughly 157 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 489mg per serving (21% 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 make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this red chili sauce ahead of time. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week. In fact, the flavors can deepen and improve after sitting for a day. Just remember to reheat gently before serving.
Is there a way to make this sauce spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the heat, you can add more chili powder or incorporate some cayenne pepper. Additionally, consider using hotter varieties of chili powder or fresh chilies to achieve the desired spice level. Always adjust gradually to suit your taste.
Can I freeze this sauce for later use?
Yes, this red chili sauce freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
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).