Craving that zesty, smoky flavor of Chili's famous Santa Fe sauce? Forget takeout! This recipe brings the restaurant's vibrant Southwestern taste right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or as a delicious topping for your favorite dishes. This homemade version is healthier and more customizable than the restaurant original, letting you control the spice level and ingredients. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), chopped green chilies, ketchup, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Season: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more lime juice for extra tang or more chili powder for a spicier kick.
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Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld. This step isn't strictly necessary but greatly enhances the overall taste.
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Serve: Serve your homemade Santa Fe sauce as a dip with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or as a base for your favorite chili recipe. It's incredibly versatile!
Tips for the Best Santa Fe Sauce:
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Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. Start with a small amount and add more gradually until you reach your desired heat level.
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Fresh Ingredients: For an even more vibrant flavor, consider using fresh diced tomatoes and finely chopped fresh chilies instead of canned.
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Storage: Store leftover Santa Fe sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Variations:
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Creamy Santa Fe Sauce: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
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Roasted Santa Fe Sauce: Roast the chilies before adding them to the sauce for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Sugar: 10-15g
This delicious and easy Santa Fe sauce recipe is perfect for anyone looking for quick dinner ideas or simple, yet flavorful, healthy meals. It's a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire and sure to become a family favorite. The vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for both beginner and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy!