Making El Pato tomato sauce from scratch is easy, and with this Copycat recipe you’ll never want to buy it again.

For me, making this El Pato hot tomato sauce recipe is one of the best things I do in the kitchen. It’s like when I make my special Costco Raspberry Chipotle Sauce or a tasty Dave’s hot chicken sauce – it’s a treat I save for special times. This sauce is made with ripe tomatoes, onion powder, garlic powder, and some spices like cumin and paprika. I add a bit of ground chile de arbol for a spicy kick.

When I cook all these ingredients together, my kitchen smells amazing! The sauce turns a bright red color and gets just the right thickness. It takes a bit of time, but it’s worth it for the tasty sauce I get in the end.

I use this sauce in lots of different ways. It’s great on tacos, enchiladas, and burritos, giving them a delicious flavor. But I also use it on pizza or pasta, or even as a marinade for meats on the grill. It’s so versatile!

What is El Pato tomato sauce?

El Pato Tomato Sauce is a flavorful condiment with its roots in Mexican cuisine. It’s crafted from a blend of ripe tomatoes, onion powder, garlic powder, and an array of spices like cumin, paprika, oregano, and chile de arbol. This combination yields a rich, savory sauce with a hint of spice, perfect for adding depth to a variety of dishes.

How to make El Pato tomato sauce

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground clove
• 1 chile de arbol, ground (optional for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1:

Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and chop them into quarters. No need to peel them.

Step 2:

Measure out the ground cumin, ground paprika, dried oregano, ground allspice, garlic powder, onion powder, ground clove, and ground chile de arbol (if using).

Step 3:

Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.

Step 4:

Once the pot is heated, add the chopped tomatoes.

Step 5:

Sprinkle in the measured spices (cumin, paprika, oregano, allspice, garlic powder, onion powder, ground clove, and ground chile de arbol if using).

Step 6:

Let the mixture simmer for approximately 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7:

After simmering, use a blender to puree the sauce until smooth or to your desired consistency.

Step 8:

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

Notes

• Adjust the amount of chile de arbol according to your preference for spiciness. Start with a small amount if you’re unsure and add more gradually until you reach your desired level of heat.
• This sauce isn’t just for Mexican dishes. Use it as a flavorful base for pasta sauces, soups, stews, or even as a marinade for meats and vegetables.
• The combination of ground cumin, paprika, oregano, allspice, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground clove creates a complex and aromatic flavor profile that will elevate any dish.
• By making your own tomato sauce from scratch, you control the quality of the ingredients and can avoid additives and preservatives often found in store-bought versions.

How to use El Pato tomato sauce?

I like to use El Pato Tomato Sauce in various ways to add flavor and zest to my meals. It’s fantastic as a topping for tacos, providing a burst of tanginess that complements any filling. But it’s great as an enchilada sauce alternative too, especially when mixed with broth and spices for a savory coating over rolled tortillas filled with tasty ingredients. If you like quick and easy appetizers, serving El Pato Tomato Sauce as a dip for tortilla chips or veggie sticks is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

It’s also an excellent pizza sauce option, lending its bold flavor to homemade pies adorned with your favorite toppings. Moreover, when it’s pasta night, I rely on El Pato Tomato Sauce to deliver robust flavor when combined with sautéed veggies and protein. Additionally, it adds depth to soups and stews, particularly Mexican-inspired ones like tortilla soup or black bean soup. Lastly, as a marinade, it infuses meats, poultry, or tofu with its rich flavor before cooking. With its versatility and bold taste, El Pato Tomato Sauce elevates every dish it touches

How to store

To store El Pato Tomato Sauce, begin by allowing it to cool completely if it’s freshly made. Once cooled, transfer the sauce to sterilized mason jars or airtight containers. Seal the jars tightly to prevent any air from entering. If refrigerating, place the jars in the refrigerator and use within a week.

FAQ

Can I adjust the spiciness of El Pato Tomato Sauce?

Yes, you can easily adjust the spiciness by adding more or less of the ground chile de arbol or omitting it altogether for a milder sauce.

Is El Pato Tomato Sauce gluten-free?

Yes, El Pato Tomato Sauce is typically gluten-free, but it’s always a good idea to check the label for any potential gluten-containing ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I freeze El Pato Tomato Sauce?

Yes, you can freeze El Pato Tomato Sauce for longer storage. Transfer it to airtight containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to several months.

Is El Pato Tomato Sauce spicy?

El Pato Tomato Sauce does have a bit of heat thanks to the addition of ground chile de arbol, but you can adjust the spiciness to your taste preferences by adding more or less.