Santa Fe Sauce

Santa Fe Sauce: an explosion of flavors with a spicy kick

If you're looking for a sauce recipe that brings a touch of warmth and vibrant flavor to your dishes, Santa Fe sauce is the ideal choice. This sauce is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, suitable for various dishes from tacos and burritos to pasta or pizza. With a base of tomatoes rich in antioxidants and spicy seasonings, Santa Fe sauce will not only delight your taste buds but also provide numerous nutritional benefits.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 large can of whole or crushed tomatoes (about 800g)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup water (about 120ml)
- 1/4 cup ground chili or hot paprika (amount can be adjusted according to spice tolerance)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Preparation:
1. Start by adding the chopped onion to the pot you'll use for the sauce. Use a medium-sized pot with a thicker bottom to prevent sticking. Add a little olive oil to sauté the onion over low heat for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This will add a sweet flavor to your sauce.

2. Once the onion is ready, add the canned tomatoes (if using whole tomatoes, crush them lightly with a spatula or spoon) and the water. Mix all the ingredients well.

3. The next step is to add the ground chili (or hot paprika). If you prefer a milder sauce, you can start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

4. Cover the pot with a lid and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. This cooking time will allow the flavors to combine and intensify.

5. After the sauce has simmered, take an immersion blender and blend the sauce until it becomes a smooth paste. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can transfer the sauce to a regular blender, but be careful not to burn yourself.

6. Finally, taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your preferences. You can add, for example, crushed garlic, fresh basil, or oregano for an even more intense flavor.

Practical tips:
- Santa Fe sauce is extremely versatile. You can customize your recipe by adding ingredients such as olives, fresh cilantro, or even a splash of lime juice for a fresh touch.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can strain it through a sieve for a more delicate texture.
- This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later use.

Nutritional benefits:
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, B vitamins, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Onions add fiber and antioxidants, while the spices provide not only flavor but also anti-inflammatory properties.

Delicious combinations:
Santa Fe sauce pairs perfectly with:
- Tacos with meat or vegetables
- Burritos with rice and beans
- Pizza with spicy toppings
- Pasta, adding a little parmesan on top

Personal story:
I remember the first time I made Santa Fe sauce. It was a cool autumn evening, and the aroma of the spices blending in the kitchen brought me a sense of comfort. I served the sauce alongside some beef-filled tacos, and my family was delighted by the spicy and flavorful taste. Since then, this sauce has become an essential part of our meals, and every variation created has been a new success.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to peel them and cook them a bit longer to achieve a similar consistency.

2. How can I make the sauce less spicy?
Reduce the amount of chili and add more tomatoes or water to cut down the heat.

3. What can I do with leftover sauce?
You can use the sauce to make a spicy tomato soup or to add flavor to your favorite dishes.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get started! Santa Fe sauce will help you turn every meal into a special experience, full of flavor and warmth. Enjoy!