Ranchero Sauce

Are you a fan of Mexican cuisine and looking to add an extra kick to your dishes? Look no further than homemade Ranchero sauce! This versatile and flavorful sauce is a staple in many traditional Mexican recipes, adding a delicious zing to everything from eggs to tacos.

Today, we’ll guide you through the process of making your own Ranchero sauce at home. From the perfect blend of tomatoes, onions, and spices to tips on how to customize it to suit your taste buds, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to elevate your meals with this homemade condiment that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Let’s dive into the world of Ranchero sauce and bring a taste of Mexico to your kitchen!

What is Ranchero Sauce Made Of?

Ranchero sauce is a flavorful, tomato-based sauce commonly used in Mexican cuisine, particularly as a topping for dishes like huevos rancheros. The primary ingredients typically include:

Olive Oil 1 Tablespoon

Olive oil is used to sauté ingredients. It adds a rich, smooth base. Helps blend flavors well. Gives the sauce a light, healthy touch. Enhances overall taste and texture.

Large White Onion ½ 

Large white onions add a sweet, mild flavor. It’s sautéed to build the base. Brings natural sweetness and depth. Blend smoothly into the sauce. Essential for rich, savory taste.

 Roma Tomatoes 3

Roma tomatoes are the main ingredient. They add rich, thick texture. Less watery than other tomatoes. Provide fresh, tangy flavor. Perfect for blending. Give the sauce its bold red color.

 Jalapeño Pepper 1

Jalapeño pepper adds mild to medium heat. Brings a fresh, spicy kick. Enhances flavor without overpowering. Can be used with or without seeds. Adds depth and zest to the sauce.

Chipotle Pepper 1

Chipotle pepper adds smoky, deep heat. It’s a dried, smoked jalapeño. Gives ranchero sauce a bold flavor. Adds warmth and richness. A little goes a long way. Enhances overall spiciness.

Minced Garlic1 Teaspoon

Garlic adds bold, savory flavor. It’s sautéed for depth and aroma. Enhances the overall taste. Blends well with tomatoes and peppers. A small amount makes a big impact.

Kosher Salt ¼ Teaspoon

Kosher salt enhances all the flavors. It’s less salty than table salt. Adds balance to the sauce. Helps bring out the taste of each ingredient. Used in small amounts.

Paprika ½ Teaspoon

Paprika adds mild heat and color. It gives the sauce a warm, smoky taste. Enhances depth without being too spicy. Blends well with garlic and tomatoes. Adds a rich aroma.

Dried Oregano ½ Teaspoon

Dried oregano adds earthy, herbal flavor. It gives the sauce a classic Mexican touch. Blends well with tomatoes and spices. Enhances aroma. Just a pinch adds depth and warmth.

Chicken Stock ½ Cup

Chicken stock adds rich, savory depth. It thins the sauce slightly. Boosts overall flavor. Blend all ingredients smoothly. Makes the sauce heartier. Adds a warm, comforting taste.

Chopped Cilantro ¼ Cup

Chopped cilantro adds fresh, zesty flavor. It gives a bright finish. Balances the heat and spices. Added at the end for freshness. Brings a touch of green color.

Lime Juice 2 Tablespoons

Lime juice adds a tangy, citrusy kick. It brightens the sauce. Balances the richness of other ingredients. Added at the end. Enhances freshness and overall flavor.

How To Make Ranchero Sauce ?

• Heat olive oil in medium-sized pans or pots over medium-high heat.
• Season with garlic, salt, paprika, dried oregano, jalapeño, and chipotle pepper. Stir the mixture occasionally for 10 minutes, or until the peppers and onions soften and the sauce thickens.
• Now, add the chicken broth and mix. Cook for 30 seconds longer.
• Take it off the fire and stir in the lime juice and parsley.
• Place everything into a large mixer and combine until the desired consistency is achieved.
•  You might also rub it in with your hands. After a few pulses, the sauce will be slightly lumpy; alternatively, you can blend it until smooth.
• Taste it and see if it needs more salt. Place it immediately on top of tacos, eggs, burritos, and your other favorite Mexican dishes.

How is Ranchero Sauce Different From Enchilada Sauce?

1. In a medium pot or skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the dried oregano, salt, paprika, garlic, jalapeño, chipotle pepper, onions, and tomatoes. 
3. Simmer for 10 minutes 
4. stir until the mixture is quite concentrated and the onions and peppers are tender.
5. Cook for another 30 seconds after adding the chicken broth.
6. Remove from the heat and toss in the lime juice and cilantro.
7. Carefully place all ingredients in a big blender and process until the smoothness you desire is reached. 
8. Another method is to use an immersion blender. If you blend it several times, you’ll get a chunky sauce, but you can also puree it until it’s perfectly smooth.
9. If necessary, adjust the seasoning by adding extra salt. 
10. Serve with burritos, tacos, eggs, and any other Mexican cuisine you like.

Best Ways to Use Ranchero Sauce (Beyond Huevos Rancheros)

Ranchero sauce can be used in many ways beyond huevos rancheros.

1. Tacos – Use it as a topping for tacos, adding flavor to any meat or veggie filling.
   
2. Grilled Chicken or Beef – Pour it over grilled chicken or beef for a smoky, tangy glaze.
   
3. Burritos – Drizzle it inside or over burritos for extra zest.
   
4. Quesadillas – Spread it between tortillas with cheese for a flavorful twist.
   
5. Nachos – Pour ranchero sauce over tortilla chips, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
   
6. Rice and Beans – Stir it into rice or beans for added depth and spice.
   
7. Tamales – Serve it as a sauce alongside tamales to enhance their taste.
   
8. Breakfast Bowls – Add it to breakfast bowls with eggs, avocado, and potatoes.
   

Ranchero sauce adds a burst of flavor to various Mexican and non-Mexican dishes!

How to Make Ranchero Sauce Spicier?

To make ranchero sauce spicier, add more chili peppers. You can use fresh or dried chiles like jalapeños, serranos, or chipotles. Blend in chili powder or cayenne pepper for extra heat. Increase the amount of garlic or onion to balance the spice while maintaining flavor. You can also add hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a kick. If you prefer smokiness, try chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Always taste and adjust the spice level to suit your preference!

Can Ranchero Sauce Be Made Ahead And Stored?

Yes, ranchero sauce can be made ahead and stored. Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave. If it thickens too much, you can add a little water to reach the desired consistency.

Final Words

Spice up your meals with the authentic flavors of Ranchero sauce! This versatile and delicious sauce can elevate any dish, adding a touch of Mexican flair to your culinary creations. Whether you drizzle it over eggs at breakfast or use it as a marinade for meats, this Ranchero sauce recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to impress your taste buds and wow your guests with this flavorful homemade sauce. Happy cooking!