Ancho Chile and Bourbon Sauce Recipe
Overview:
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Southwest with this exquisite Ancho Chile and Bourbon Sauce. Whether you’re pairing it with succulent pork, tender chicken, or hearty beef, this versatile sauce elevates any dish to new heights. With a perfect balance of smoky ancho chilies, rich bourbon, and aromatic spices, it’s a culinary delight that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients. Get ready to elevate your meals with this irresistible sauce!
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Yield: 4 cups
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups Bourbon
- 3 ancho chilies, dried
- 6 whole black peppercorns
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 8 cups water
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. |
| 2 | Add the chopped red onion to the saucepan and cook until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes. |
| 3 | Pour in the bourbon and allow it to cook until it’s completely reduced, intensifying its rich flavor and aroma. This typically takes about 10 minutes. |
| 4 | While the bourbon reduces, prepare the ancho chilies by removing the stems and seeds, then roughly chop them. |
| 5 | Add the chopped ancho chilies, whole black peppercorns, light brown sugar, and water to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. |
| 6 | Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by half, and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. |
| 7 | Once the sauce has reduced, remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully strain the sauce through a fine mesh strainer, discarding any solids. |
| 8 | Return the strained sauce to the saucepan and place it back over low heat. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix in some all-purpose flour, stirring continuously until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. |
| 9 | Taste the sauce and season with salt to enhance the flavors, adjusting as needed. |
| 10 | Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. |
Serving Suggestions:
- Drizzle this delectable Ancho Chile and Bourbon Sauce over grilled pork chops, roasted chicken, or seared beef steaks for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Use it as a marinade for meats before grilling or baking to infuse them with its rich and smoky flavor.
- Add a spoonful of this sauce to cooked rice or quinoa for a burst of flavor and a touch of heat.
- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze it for longer preservation.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 491.6
- Fat: 8.3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 7.2mg
- Sodium: 363.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 43.5g
- Fiber: 2.2g
- Sugar: 31.9g
- Protein: 7.5g
Indulge in the rich and flavorful world of Southwestern cuisine with this sensational Ancho Chile and Bourbon Sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a taste of the Southwest, this recipe is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. So, fire up your stovetop and get ready to elevate your dishes with this unforgettable sauce!
