Are you ready to transform your home cooking with a condiment that's about to become your secret weapon in the kitchen? Imagine a sauce so intensely flavorful, so richly smoky, that it can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are not just an ingredient – they're a culinary experience that brings the heart of Mexican cuisine right to your plate. Whether you're a spice enthusiast, a cooking adventurer, or someone looking to add a punch of flavor to your meals, this homemade recipe will revolutionize your cooking game!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 1 jar
Ingredients
- 6 dried chipotle peppers
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dried chipotle peppers by carefully removing any stems and wiping them clean with a damp paper towel.
- If the dried chipotles are particularly tough, briefly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30-60 seconds on each side to soften and enhance their smoky flavor.
- In a medium saucepan, combine tomato sauce, white vinegar, minced garlic, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt, whisking to create a smooth base sauce.
- Add the prepared dried chipotle peppers to the sauce, ensuring they are completely submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, reducing the temperature to maintain a slow, steady bubbling.
- Cover the saucepan and let the peppers simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check the consistency of the sauce, which should thicken slightly and become rich and glossy. The peppers should be soft and fully rehydrated.
- Remove from heat and let the peppers cool in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the chipotle peppers and sauce to a clean, sterilized glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Store in the refrigerator, where the peppers in adobo sauce will keep for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- Choose high-quality dried chipotle peppers for the most authentic flavor. Look for peppers that are pliable and have a deep, rich color.
- When toasting the peppers, be careful not to burn them. A light toasting releases their essential oils and enhances their smoky flavor.
- Use a non-reactive saucepan (stainless steel or enamel) to prevent any metallic taste from interfering with the sauce.
- For a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a small amount of ground cumin or smoked paprika to the sauce.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the final product to create a more uniform consistency.
- These peppers in adobo sauce make an excellent gift for foodie friends – just package them in a sterilized jar with a cute label!
- Always use clean, sterilized utensils when storing to maximize the shelf life of your homemade adobo sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 39kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
