I’ve always loved the bold flavors of Tex Mex cuisine, and when I tried the Hello Fresh Tex Mex Paste, I knew I had to recreate it at home. There’s something special about bringing that vibrant mix of spices and ingredients into my own kitchen.
After some experimentation, I nailed down a copycat recipe that’s just as delicious and easy to make. Whether you’re planning a taco night or looking to spice up your meals, this homemade Tex Mex paste will become a staple in your pantry.
Join me as I share the simple steps to crafting this flavorful sauce, perfect for adding that authentic Tex Mex kick to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tools And Equipment
To master this Tex Mex paste, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what I use in my kitchen:
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: Perfect for chopping onions, garlic, and bell peppers with ease.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Ensure precise measurements for spices and other ingredients.
- Large Saucepan: Ideal for simmering the sauce and melding flavors together.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Blender or Immersion Blender: Achieve a smooth and consistent paste texture.
- Fine Mesh Strainer (Optional): For an extra silky finish by removing any remaining solids.
- Storage Containers: Keep your homemade paste fresh in the refrigerator or freezer.
Having these tools on hand makes the process seamless and helps you create a delicious Tex Mex paste every time.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create my homemade Hello Fresh Tex Mex Paste. It’s straightforward and brings authentic flavors right to your kitchen.
Prepare Ingredients
- Chop Vegetables: Dice one large onion and mince three cloves of garlic. Slice two bell peppers into thin strips.
- Measure Spices: Gather one tablespoon of chili powder, one teaspoon of cumin, half a teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Prepare Liquids: Measure half a cup of tomato paste and one cup of vegetable broth.
- Set Up Tools: Ensure you have a large saucepan, wooden spoon, blender, and storage containers ready.
Cook
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in the saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add Garlic and Peppers: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced bell peppers. Cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate Spices: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Add Tomato Paste and Liquids: Pour in the tomato paste and vegetable broth. Stir until the tomato paste is fully integrated.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. The sauce should thicken and develop a rich, deep flavor.
Assemble
- Blend the Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend briefly.
- Adjust Consistency: If the paste is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Store the Paste: Pour the Tex Mex paste into airtight containers. Let it cool completely before sealing.
- Refrigerate or Freeze: Keep the paste in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage. Use it to enhance your tacos, burritos, or any Tex Mex dish you love.
Storage And Serving
Storing the Tex Mex Paste
To keep my homemade Tex Mex paste fresh and flavorful, I follow these storage guidelines:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Use airtight glass or BPA-free containers |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers for easy thawing |
Reheating the Sauce
When you’re ready to use the paste, reheating is simple:
- Thawing: If frozen, transfer the desired amount to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
- Heating: Pour the paste into a saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until warmed through.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
Serving Suggestions
My Tex Mex paste is incredibly versatile. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:
- Tacos: Spoon over seasoned beef, chicken, or veggies for a burst of flavor.
- Burritos: Spread inside with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings.
- Quesadillas: Use as a flavorful base with cheese and fillings.
- Grilling: Marinate meats like chicken or steak for an extra kick before grilling.
- Soups and Stews: Stir into soups or stews to deepen the flavor profile.
- Baked Dishes: Incorporate into casseroles or baked beans for a Tex Mex twist.
With proper storage, my Tex Mex paste remains a pantry staple, ready to enhance any meal with its rich and vibrant flavors.
Conclusion
I’m excited for you to try this homemade Tex Mex paste and see how it elevates your favorite dishes Whether you’re whipping up tacos, burritos, or experimenting with new recipes this paste adds that perfect burst of flavor Every step is designed to be simple so you can enjoy authentic Tex Mex tastes without the hassle I can’t wait to hear how it transforms your meals Happy cooking!
