🌶️🍊 Ancho Chile and Citrus Ketchup: A Flavorful Adventure! 🌶️🍊
What is it?
Ancho Chile and Citrus Ketchup is a zesty and tangy condiment that combines the smoky heat of ancho chiles with the bright and refreshing flavors of citrus fruits. It’s a delightful twist on traditional ketchup, adding a spicy kick and a burst of citrusy goodness to your favorite dishes.
History:
This unique ketchup variant marries the culinary traditions of Mexico and the Mediterranean. Ancho chiles, dried poblano peppers, have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, renowned for their deep, smoky flavor and mild heat. Citrus fruits, like oranges and lemons, have long been used in Mediterranean cooking to add a refreshing contrast to savory dishes. The fusion of these two culinary worlds led to the creation of Ancho Chile and Citrus Ketchup, a condiment that’s both versatile and bursting with flavor.
Components:
To make this delectable condiment, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3-4 dried ancho chiles
- 2 cups of tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup of orange juice
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your own Ancho Chile and Citrus Ketchup:
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Prepare the Ancho Chiles: Remove the stems and seeds from the dried ancho chiles. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they become fragrant. Then, soak them in hot water for about 15-20 minutes to soften.
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Blend the Chiles: Drain the soaked chiles and place them in a blender. Add the tomato sauce, orange juice, lemon juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Blend to Perfection: Blend everything until you achieve a smooth and homogeneous mixture.
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Cook and Simmer: Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan and simmer over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning. Let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the ketchup and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more sugar for sweetness or more citrus for a tangy kick.
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Cool and Store: Once done, let the ketchup cool down. Transfer it to a glass jar or airtight container and refrigerate it. It can be stored for up to a few weeks.
Time Needed:
The total preparation time for Ancho Chile and Citrus Ketchup is approximately 45-60 minutes, including the soaking and simmering time. It’s a relatively simple and rewarding recipe that will add a burst of flavor to your meals.
So, go ahead and try making this delightful condiment at home. It’s perfect for dipping, drizzling, or as a marinade for grilled meats and veggies. Enjoy your culinary adventure! 🌮🍔🍟🌯🍗🍝🍕🍤🍽️
🍽️ Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Ancho Chile and Citrus Ketchup 🍊🌶️
While Ancho Chile and Citrus Ketchup can add a burst of flavor to your meals, it’s important to be aware of its nutrition facts and health considerations. Here’s some information to keep in mind:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per 2 tablespoon serving):
- Calories: 35
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 9g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Vitamin C: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin A: 6% of the DV
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: Ancho Chile and Citrus Ketchup is relatively low in calories, making it a suitable condiment for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Low in Fat: It is virtually fat-free, which can be a healthy choice for those watching their fat consumption.
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Moderate Sodium: The ketchup contains some sodium, which can contribute to your daily intake. Be mindful of your overall sodium intake, especially if you have high blood pressure or other sodium-related concerns.
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Source of Vitamin C: Thanks to the citrus fruits, this ketchup provides a moderate amount of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system and skin health.
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No Cholesterol: There is no cholesterol in this ketchup, making it a heart-healthy option.
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Fiber and Sugars: It contains a small amount of dietary fiber and natural sugars from the citrus fruits and brown sugar. While it’s not a significant source of fiber, it adds a touch of sweetness.
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Customization: You can adjust the sugar content according to your preferences. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using less brown sugar or opting for a sugar substitute.
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Versatile Use: Use this ketchup in moderation to add flavor to your dishes, but be mindful of portion sizes due to its sugar and sodium content.
Remember that the nutrition facts may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and measurements used in your homemade ketchup. It’s a flavorful condiment, and when consumed in moderation, it can be a delicious addition to your meals while still fitting into a balanced diet.
