How To Make Spicy Ranchero Sauce

Ramon De

2 min read

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10-02-2025

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Ranchero sauce, a vibrant and flavorful staple of Mexican cuisine, offers a delightful blend of tomatoes, chiles, and onions. This guide will walk you through crafting a spicy version perfect for elevating your favorite dishes. The spiciness is easily adjustable to your preference, making this recipe versatile for various palates.

Ingredients:

• Roma Tomatoes: 2 pounds, roughly chopped. Roma tomatoes provide a robust flavor and hold their shape well during cooking.
• Serrano Peppers: 2-4, finely minced. Adjust the quantity depending on your desired heat level. For a milder sauce, use just one or two; for a fiery kick, add more. Jalapeños can be substituted, but serranos offer a more complex heat.
• White Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped.
• Garlic Cloves: 4-6, minced. Garlic adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• Cilantro: ½ cup, chopped. Cilantro offers a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint to the heat.
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Cumin: 1 teaspoon. Ground cumin adds a warm, earthy note.
• Oregano: ½ teaspoon. Dried oregano complements the other spices.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste.

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Add Chiles and Spices: Add the minced serrano peppers, cumin, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the spices to bloom and release their aromas.
3. Simmer Tomatoes: Add the chopped Roma tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and broken down.
4. Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, carefully transfer the cooked tomato mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Alternatively, you can leave it chunky for a more rustic texture.
5. Stir in Cilantro: Once blended (or if leaving chunky), stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

This spicy Ranchero sauce is incredibly versatile. Use it as:

• A topping for eggs: Scrambled eggs, omelets, or even fried eggs are elevated with a generous spoonful of this sauce.
• A base for enchiladas: The sauce adds a spicy depth to classic enchiladas.
• A marinade for chicken or fish: The flavors will infuse the protein for a delicious meal.
• A dipping sauce for tortilla chips: A simple, flavorful, and spicy appetizer.

Note: Always exercise caution when handling chili peppers. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin to prevent irritation. Adjust the quantity of serrano peppers to control the level of spiciness according to your preference.