How to Make Mexican Sauces with Bell Peppers

Mexican cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients. Bell peppers, with their sweet and tangy profile, make a fantastic base for a variety of sauces that can elevate dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and grilled meats. In this article, we will explore several delicious Mexican sauce recipes that incorporate bell peppers, providing you with the perfect accompaniment for your favorite meals.

1. Roasted Red Bell Pepper Salsa

This sauce is perfect for adding a smoky flavor to your dishes. The combination of roasted red bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices creates a vibrant salsa ideal for chips or as a topping for grilled proteins.

Ingredients:

  • 3 large red bell peppers
  • 2 medium tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the bell peppers and tomatoes on a baking tray and roast for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are blistered and slightly charred.
  3. Remove from the oven and let cool. Peel the skin off the bell peppers and tomatoes.
  4. In a blender, combine the roasted bell peppers, tomatoes, onion, garlic, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
  5. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

2. Bell Pepper Mole Sauce

For a richer flavor, incorporate bell peppers into a mole sauce. This traditional sauce combines various ingredients for a complex depth that pairs perfectly with chicken or enchiladas.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup of roasted almonds
  • 2 dried ancho chiles
  • 1 cup of chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Toast the almonds in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Set aside.
  2. Remove the seeds and stems from the dried ancho chiles and soak them in hot water for 15 minutes.
  3. In a blender, combine the roasted bell peppers, almonds, soaked chiles, chicken broth, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and salt. Blend until smooth.
  4. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  5. Serve over your favorite meat or noodles, and enjoy the rich flavor of mole.

3. Green Bell Pepper Chimichurri

This vibrant herb-based sauce, with green bell peppers as a star ingredient, offers a fresh and zesty flavor, perfect for grilled meats or vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup of fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup of olive oil
  • 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • Salt and red pepper flakes to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the green bell pepper, parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning to taste.
  3. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Drizzle over grilled meats, or use it as a fresh dressing for salads.

Conclusion

Making Mexican sauces with bell peppers is a simple yet effective way to introduce flavor and color into your meals. Whether you choose a roasted salsa, a rich mole, or a zesty chimichurri, these sauces will enhance your culinary experience