Why Make This Recipe
Making homemade Tex Mex paste gives you a fresh and flavorful base for many dishes. It’s a great way to control the ingredients and customize the taste to your liking. With this paste, you can easily elevate your tacos, enchiladas, or even your favorite chili recipes. Plus, it’s simple to make and can save you money compared to store-bought options.
How to Make Homemade Tex Mex Paste
Ingredients:
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
Directions:
Simply add all the ingredients into a bowl and mix until thoroughly combined. The goal is to get a thick but spreadable consistency, so if you need to add a bit more vinegar, feel free to add more. You can also add a teaspoon of sugar if you want to cut the acidity.
How to Serve Homemade Tex Mex Paste
You can use your Tex Mex paste in many delicious ways. Spread it on tacos, mix it into your favorite chili, or stir it into sauces for a punch of flavor. It pairs well with beans, meats, and vegetables. There’s no wrong way to enjoy this vibrant paste!
How to Store Homemade Tex Mex Paste
To store your Tex Mex paste, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing small portions in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes into a zip-lock bag. This way, you can easily take out just the amount you need for future recipes.
Tips to Make Homemade Tex Mex Paste
- Adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you love heat, consider adding some chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika.
- Fresh herbs can enhance the taste. If available, use fresh cilantro or parsley instead of dried herbs.
- Don’t hesitate to taste as you mix. This will help you get the flavor just right.
Variation
You can easily make variations of this paste by using different types of tomatoes, like roasted or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also add jalapeños for a spicy kick or extra lime juice for brightness.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar instead of white vinegar for a different flavor profile.
2. Is the sugar necessary?
No, the sugar is optional. It helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, but you can skip it if you prefer.
3. Can I can this paste for long-term storage?
While you can store it in the refrigerator or freeze it, canning requires a specific process to ensure safety. It’s best to stick to refrigeration and freezing for homemade pastes.
Tex Mex Paste
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar (optional) Adjust to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Add all the ingredients into a bowl.
- Mix until thoroughly combined to achieve a thick but spreadable consistency.
- If necessary, add more vinegar to adjust the consistency.
- Taste and adjust the balance of flavors if desired.