Taco Sauce - Ortega Copycat Recipe

"Yes, my Hispanic family would roll on the floor laughing if they knew I posted this recipe. But sometimes you just gotta have it! Kind of like having a craving for Taco Bell... not really Mexican food but hits the spot all the same. Use this sauce for making great "Gringo" tacos. Fried tortilla shells, ground beef with taco seasoning, shredded yellow cheddar, chopped lettuce and tomato. Oh my gosh, breaking all the cardinal rules of Mexican cooking. Should have published this under a pseudonym. LOL..."

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes.

Step 2

Pour into a jar and cool to room temp. Let flavors meld for at least 4 hours. Store leftovers, if any, in the refrigerator.

This sauce will stay good in the refrigerator for several months

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.

Tips for selecting ingredients

For a spicier sauce, increase the cayenne to 1/2 teaspoon.
If you don't have lemon pepper, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and 1/4 teaspoon of lemon zest instead.

Ingredient substitutions

Substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar. The benefit of this substitution is that apple cider vinegar is a healthier alternative to white vinegar and has a milder flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients.
Substitute granulated sugar with honey. The benefit of this substitution is that honey is a natural sweetener that adds a subtle sweetness to the sauce without being overly sugary.

Variations

Chipotle Taco Sauce Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes. Add 1/2 teaspoon of chipotle powder and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Pour into a jar and cool to room temp. Let flavors meld for at least 4 hours. Store leftovers, if any, in the refrigerator.

Jalapeno Lime Taco Sauce Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes. Add 1/2 teaspoon of jalapeno powder, 1/2 teaspoon of lime zest and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin. Pour into a jar and cool to room temp. Let flavors meld for at least 4 hours. Store leftovers, if any, in the refrigerator.

Serve with

Mexican Rice - A Perfect Side Dish for Tacos: This Mexican-style rice is a flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with tacos. It's made with long-grain white rice, onion, garlic, tomato sauce, and flavorful seasonings. It's easy to make and adds a delicious, savory element to your taco night.

Refried Beans: Refried beans are a classic Mexican side dish that pairs perfectly with tacos. Rich and creamy, they are made with cooked pinto beans, onion, garlic, and spices. They are a great source of protein and fiber, and they add a delicious, savory flavor to your taco night.