south-of-the-border essentials: guajillo sauce

How To Make south-of-the-border essentials: guajillo sauce

• 
  Step 1
  PREP/PREPARE
• 
  Step 2
  You will need a stand blender, stick blender, or food processor, fitted with a S-blade. In addition, you will need a good heavy-bottom pot (like a Dutch oven), and a mesh strainer.
• 
  Step 3
  Storage of homemade condiments and spices Because homemade spices and condiments do not contain any preservatives, it is important to store them properly. Non-reactive (glass) containers with tight-fitting lids are a must. If I am making a dry spice, I love to use old spice bottles that I have run through the dishwasher. If I am doing homemade sauces, I love using Weck jars. They are all glass, come in all sizes and shapes, and have excellent leakproof lids. If you shop online, you can go to Amazon, and type in “Weck Jars” and you will find a ton of them. If properly stored, this sauce should last 8 – 10 days in the fridge, or 5 – 6 months in the freezer.
• 
  Step 4
  Gather your ingredients (mise en place).
• 
  Step 5
  Cut off the stems and remove as many of the seeds and ribs as possible.
• 
  Step 6
  Rinse the peppers in water until clean, then drain.
• 
  Step 7
  Tear them up into pieces, then cover with boiling water. Let stand for about 30 minutes.
• 
  Step 8
  Add the softened peppers, and the remaining ingredients to a blender, then add about 2 cups of fresh water (it does not have to be hot).
• 
  Step 9
  Blend until mixture is smooth.
• 
  Step 10
  If the sauce is too thick, add some water, a bit at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
• 
  Step 11
  Use a mesh strainer to pour the mixture into a pot. Use the back of a spoon to push as much of the liquid through mesh. Then discard the pulp.
• 
  Step 12
  Bring up to a boil, then lower to a simmer.
• 
  Step 13
  Continue to simmer for about 5 – 8 minutes. Then remove from the heat, allow to cool, and store until needed.
• 
  Step 14
  PLATE/PRESENT
• 
  Step 15
  Serve in your favorite South-of-the-Border recipes, like this yummy Mexican beef chili, or come up with something completely different. Enjoy.
• 
  Step 16
  Keep the faith, and keep cooking.
• Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!