Are you ready to elevate your chili relleno game? Forget those bland, store-bought sauces! This recipe unveils the secret to a truly authentic and delicious chili relleno sauce, bursting with flavor and easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for creating a homemade culinary masterpiece. This easy recipe will transform your weeknight dinner into a fiesta! Prepare to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea, a perfect example of healthy meals made simple.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of incredible flavor for your sauce.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced green chilies, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Cook to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer, deeper flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, creating a truly delicious sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the sauce to your desired consistency. A slightly chunky sauce works wonderfully too!
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Garnish and Serve: Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Stir in the fresh cilantro (if using) and serve hot. This sauce is the perfect complement to your favorite chili rellenos, but also delicious over rice, tacos, or as a dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili Relleno Sauce:
- Roast the chilies: For a smoky depth of flavor, roast the chilies before adding them to the sauce. Simply broil them for a few minutes until slightly charred.
- Use fresh tomatoes: If you have fresh tomatoes in season, you can use them instead of canned. Just chop them roughly and add them to the sauce along with the onion.
- Adjust the spice level: The amount of cayenne pepper is completely up to your preference. Start with less and add more if you like it spicier.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of chipotle powder or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crema fresca at the end for a creamier texture.
- Cheesy: Sprinkle in some shredded Monterey Jack cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Fat: 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
This easy chili relleno sauce recipe is a great example of delicious dishes you can create quickly and easily at home. It’s a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, transforming simple ingredients into an unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave flavorful and healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!