Do you want to add a special touch to your tacos? With this canning taco sauce recipe, you can enjoy an authentic and delicious flavor in every bite. Keep reading to discover how to prepare this amazing homemade taco sauce at home.
Ingredients
Before starting, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. This recipe is divided into the main ingredients and the additional ingredients for canning.
Main Ingredients:
- 5 lbs of tomatoes, peeled and cored
- 1 cup of finely chopped onions
- 1 cup of finely chopped green peppers
- 1 cup of vinegar
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp of sugar
- 1 tbsp of salt
- 2 tsp of paprika
- 1 tsp of ground cumin
- 1 tsp of ground black pepper
Additional Ingredients for Canning:
- Lemon juice
- Pint jars
- Lids
Preparation Process
Follow these steps to create your perfect homemade taco sauce:
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Start by peeling and coring the tomatoes. Once done, place them in a large pot.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onions, green peppers, minced garlic, sugar, salt, paprika, ground cumin, and ground black pepper to the large pot with the tomatoes. Pour in the vinegar and stir well.
- Cooking the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 35 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Prepare for Canning: While the sauce is simmering, prepare your boiling water canner and sterilize the pint jars and lids. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to each pint jar.
- Fill the Jars: Ladle the hot tomato taco sauce into the prepared jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth, place the lids on, and secure them with the bands.
- Process the Jars: Place the jars in the boiling water canner, ensuring they are covered with at least 1 inch of water. Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for 15 minutes. Once done, remove the jars and let them cool undisturbed for 24 hours.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Heat Level Adjustment: If you prefer a spicier sauce, add some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Alternative Ingredients: You can substitute green peppers with red peppers for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Serving Suggestions: This taco sauce pairs perfectly with tacos, burritos, nachos, and even as a dip for chips.
Nutritional Information
A basic nutritional breakdown per serving (1/4 cup):
- Calories: 20
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
Making your own taco sauce at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Try this canning taco sauce recipe and enjoy a fresh, homemade touch to your favorite Mexican dishes. Serve it with your tacos, burritos, or even as a delightful dip for chips. Your taste buds will thank you!
