Ranchero sauce is a spicy, tomato-based Mexican sauce that originated in Northern Mexico. It is characterized by being a cooked sauce (not a fresh salsa) made with ingredients such as tomatoes, fresh hot chiles like jalapeños, onions, garlic, and often chipotle peppers for smokiness. The sauce is zesty, tangy, and fresh with a balance of heat and bright flavors
. Key features of ranchero sauce include:
- A base of cooked tomatoes, usually Roma or diced canned tomatoes
- Fresh hot chiles such as jalapeños, sometimes serranos
- Aromatics like onions and garlic sautéed to develop flavor
- Smoky elements from chipotle peppers or chipotle powder
- Seasonings such as oregano, cumin, and sometimes chili powders
- Fresh herbs like cilantro and lime juice added at the end for brightness
- The sauce is simmered to thicken and meld flavors, then blended to a smooth or slightly chunky consistency
Ranchero sauce is famously used on huevos rancheros but is versatile enough for enchiladas, tacos, burritos, chilaquiles, and as a dip for tortilla chips. It differs from enchilada sauce in that it is lighter on chili powder and heavier on fresh tomato flavor, and it is always cooked rather than raw
. In summary, ranchero sauce is a cooked, flavorful Mexican tomato sauce with fresh chiles and smoky, spicy, and tangy notes, widely used in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine to add vibrant flavor to many dishes
