Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful sauce that’s both easy to make and incredibly versatile? Look no further than Vera Cruz sauce! This zesty Mexican delight is a delicious blend of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices, offering a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. Perfect for adding a punch of flavor to your favorite dishes, this homemade Vera Cruz sauce is far superior to store-bought options. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender. This step builds the foundation of the sauce's delicious flavor.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, cilantro, jalapeños, oregano, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the saucepan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes. This is a great time to multitask and focus on another part of your meal prep.
-
Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the sauce to your desired consistency. Leaving some texture adds a delightful rustic feel.
-
Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more jalapeños for extra heat, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Vera Cruz sauce immediately over your favorite dishes, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Tips for the Best Vera Cruz Sauce:
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients whenever possible will significantly elevate the flavor of your sauce.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños and cayenne pepper to control the spiciness. Start with less and add more to your liking.
- Simmering Time: The longer you simmer the sauce, the more the flavors will meld together.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freezing is also an option for longer storage.
Delicious Variations:
- Add Some Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chorizo for a heartier sauce.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lime zest for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- Different Peppers: Experiment with different types of chili peppers to change the flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion size. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator online with your specific ingredient quantities. However, expect this recipe to be relatively low in fat and calories, and a good source of vitamins and fiber.
This Vera Cruz sauce is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. It’s unbelievably versatile; use it as a topping for tacos, enchiladas, burritos, grilled chicken, fish, or even as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the delicious results!