Arteflame Taco Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This homemade taco sauce is rich, smoky, and perfect for topping tacos, burritos, or grilled meats. By preparing it on the Arteflame grill, you’ll infuse the sauce with a subtle fire-roasted depth that elevates its flavor. It’s quick, easy, and versatile for all your taco nights!

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Ingredients

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Light the Arteflame grill by placing vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood and lighting them. Let the grill heat for about 20 minutes.
2. Place a small cast-iron skillet on the cooler edge of the flat cooktop to preheat for gentle cooking.

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Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet.
2. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, sugar, salt, and black pepper.

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Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

1. Move the skillet to a slightly warmer area of the grill and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
2. Cook the sauce for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.

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Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness, salt, or spiciness to your preference.
2. If you prefer a thinner sauce, stir in a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

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Step 5: Serve or Store

1. Use the taco sauce immediately to drizzle over tacos, burritos, or grilled meats.
2. Transfer any leftovers to a clean, airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.

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Tips

• Customize Heat: Adjust cayenne pepper to control the spice level.
• Add Smokiness: For a deeper flavor, grill fresh tomatoes and blend them as the base instead of using canned tomato sauce.
• Consistency Control: Simmer longer for a thicker sauce or add water for a thinner consistency.

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Variations

1. Chipotle Taco Sauce: Blend in chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
2. Garlic Taco Sauce: Double the garlic powder or add roasted garlic for a bolder flavor.
3. Herb-Infused Sauce: Stir in fresh cilantro or oregano for a vibrant, herbal note.
4. Creamy Taco Sauce: Mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
5. Sweet and Spicy: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to balance the heat with sweetness.

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Pairings

• Tacos: Use as a topping for beef, chicken, or veggie tacos.
• Burritos: Drizzle over burritos or use as a dipping sauce.
• Grilled Proteins: Serve as a glaze for grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak.
• Nachos: Pour over nachos with melted cheese for a spicy kick.

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Conclusion

This Arteflame taco sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to your grilling arsenal. Its smoky, spicy, and tangy notes make it the perfect complement to your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.