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America's Melting Pot
Red Chile Sauce hero image coming soon
1800-1860 - Mexican-American and Spanish Borderlands Communities
Red Chile Sauce is a vibrant, spicy sauce made from dried red chiles and seasonings, traditionally used in Mexican, Spanish, and Southwestern U.S. cuisines. This sauce embodies centuries-old culinary practices brought by Spanish settlers and Mexican heritage in the borderlands during the early 19th century, adding distinctive heat and flavor to many dishes.
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Difficulty
Medium
Prep time
20 minutes
Cook time
15 minutes
Total time
35 minutes
Servings
Makes about 2 cups
Region
Southwest, South
Era introduced
1800-1860
Introduced by
Mexican-American and Spanish Borderlands Communities
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The red chile sauce has roots in the Southwest and South regions of the United States between 1800 and 1860, reflecting the rich cultural intermingling of Mexican, Spanish, and Indigenous culinary traditions. This sauce is crafted from dried red chiles rehydrated and combined with garlic, onions, and spices, typifying the bold flavors integral to borderlands cooking. It was commonly used to enliven meats, beans, and vegetable dishes and remains a staple in Southwestern households today.
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