Authentic Chile Colorado Sauce
Discover the rich and flavorful world of Mexican cuisine with this Authentic Chile Colorado Sauce. Perfect for enhancing your favorite dishes, this sauce is versatile enough to accompany meats, vegetables, or even serve as a base for hearty stews. With a blend of aromatic spices and a deep, vibrant color, this sauce will elevate any meal to new heights. Whether you’re using it for enchiladas, tacos, or simply over rice, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make and customizable to suit your spice level, it's an essential sauce for Mexican cooking enthusiasts.
N/A
Servings
58
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
shortening
2 tablespoons (melted)
salt
3/4 teaspoon (to taste)
flour
2 tablespoons (all-purpose)
garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
red chili powder
1/4-3/4 cup (adjust according to spice preference)
oregano
optional (dried or fresh)
cold water
2 cups (for mixing)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, heat the shortening over medium heat until melted and hot.
2
Sprinkle the flour into the melted shortening and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until the mixture turns a light golden brown, creating a roux.
3
Gradually add the red chili powder to the roux, whisking constantly for an additional minute. This step helps develop the flavor and color of the sauce.
4
Slowly pour in the cold water while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
5
Season the sauce with salt, garlic salt, and oregano if desired. Stir well to combine.
6
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process is crucial for eliminating any bitterness and enhancing the flavor.
7
Adjust the thickness by adding more water or extending the simmering time as necessary. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
8
For added richness, you can incorporate 1 pound of cooked beef or pork, either ground, cubed, or shredded, during the last few minutes of simmering.
Nutrition Information
3g
Fat
0.8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Chile Colorado Sauce?
It is a rich and flavorful Mexican sauce with a deep, vibrant color, perfect for enhancing meats, vegetables, or serving as a base for stews.
How do you start the cooking process for this sauce?
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of shortening in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it is melted and hot.
How do you make the roux for the sauce?
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the melted shortening and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until it turns a light golden brown.
When should the red chili powder be added?
Gradually add the red chili powder to the roux after the flour has turned golden, whisking constantly for an additional minute.
Why is it important to whisk the chili powder into the roux?
Whisking the chili powder into the roux helps develop both the deep color and the rich flavor of the sauce.
What temperature should the water be when added to the sauce?
You should use cold water to help prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.
How much water is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of cold water.
What are the primary seasonings used in Chile Colorado Sauce?
The sauce is seasoned with salt, garlic salt, and optionally dried or fresh oregano.
How long does the sauce need to simmer?
The sauce should simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Why is the simmering step necessary?
Simmering is crucial for eliminating any potential bitterness from the chili and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
How can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
You can adjust the heat by varying the amount of red chili powder between 1/4 cup and 3/4 cup.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick or too thin?
You can adjust the thickness by adding more water to thin it or extending the simmering time to thicken it.
Can I add meat to this sauce?
Yes, you can incorporate 1 pound of cooked beef or pork (ground, cubed, or shredded) during the last few minutes of simmering.
How many calories are in a serving of this sauce?
There are approximately 58 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
The recipe contains 3 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein is in the Chile Colorado Sauce?
Each serving provides 0.8 grams of protein.
Is oregano a required ingredient?
No, oregano is listed as an optional ingredient and can be added based on your preference.
What type of flour is recommended for the roux?
The recipe specifies 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
How much salt and garlic salt should I use?
The recipe suggests 3/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic salt, but both can be adjusted to taste.
What are some common uses for this sauce?
It is perfect for enchiladas, tacos, serving over rice, or using as a base for hearty Mexican stews.
Is this sauce difficult to prepare?
No, it is described as an easy-to-make and essential sauce for Mexican cooking enthusiasts.
What gives the sauce its vibrant color?
The combination of red chili powder and the roux development provides the sauce with its deep, vibrant color.
Can I use this sauce for vegetarian dishes?
Yes, it is versatile enough to accompany vegetables as well as meats.
What is the primary tag or category for this recipe?
It is categorized as a sauce, specifically within Mexican cuisine.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe consists of 7 total ingredients.
What is the preparation method for the shortening?
The shortening should be melted in a saucepan over medium heat.
Can I use fresh oregano?
Yes, the recipe allows for either dried or fresh oregano to be used.
Is the sauce simmered covered or uncovered?
The sauce should be simmered uncovered for the best results.
What is the target texture of the roux?
The roux should be whisked until it reaches a light golden brown color.
How can I ensure the sauce is smooth?
Continually whisking while slowly pouring in the cold water will ensure the mixture remains smooth and free of lumps.