Spicy Red Sauce
Spicy Red Sauce is a bold, flavorful condiment featuring the heat of crushed chili and a rich tomato and onion base. Perfect for adding a fiery kick to meats, tacos, or rice dishes, it appeals to lovers of spicy, savory flavors seeking a versatile sauce with depth and heat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of lard or bacon fat in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and cook until tender and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped peeled and seeded tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Mix in the crushed chili peppers, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade lard or bacon fat if available. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the lard with olive oil. Adjust the heat level by using more or fewer chili peppers. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the sauce's freshness. If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the sauce after cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This spicy red sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. Serve it over fettuccine or alongside Fresh String Beans for a complete meal. You can also use it as a base for pizza or a dipping sauce for breadsticks. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Red Sauce contains roughly 206 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1988mg per serving (86% 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, this sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as it sits. Just remember to let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the spicy red sauce?
Absolutely! Allow the sauce to cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with spicy red sauce?
This sauce is incredibly versatile. It goes well with pasta, as a topping for grilled chicken, or even as a flavorful dip for crusty bread. Try it with finger foods like meatballs or as a base for a spicy vegetable stir-fry.
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).