Description
If you love Taco Bell’s Diablo Sauce, you’re in for a treat! This homemade version is just as spicy, smoky, and flavorful—plus, it’s super easy to make in just 15 minutes. No more hoarding sauce packets—this DIY Diablo Sauce is perfect for tacos, burritos, burgers, fries, and more. Best of all, you can customize the heat level to your preference!
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or honey for a natural option)
Essential Peppers & Spices:
- 1 tablespoon Aji Panca paste (or substitute with smoked paprika)
- 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional Additions for Variations:
- 1 teaspoon lime juice (for tanginess)
- 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (for extra smokiness)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (for a creamy version)
Instructions
- Combine the Base Ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix together the tomato paste, vinegar, and water. Stir well until fully combined.
- Add the Spices & Peppers: Stir in the Aji Panca paste, chipotle peppers, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, cayenne, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Keep stirring until everything is evenly mixed.
- Bring to a Boil & Simmer: Heat the saucepan over medium-high heat until the mixture starts to boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check the Consistency: The sauce should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Cool & Strain (If Needed): Let the sauce cool for a few minutes. If you want an ultra-smooth texture, pour it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any chunks.
- Store & Enjoy: Transfer the sauce into an airtight container or squeeze bottle and refrigerate for up to 4 weeks.
Notes
- Heat Level Adjustments: Reduce the red pepper flakes for a milder sauce or add habaneros for extra fire!
- Tangy Twist: A squeeze of lime juice adds a refreshing zing.
- Smoky Version: Extra chipotle peppers or liquid smoke give a deeper flavor.
- Serving Ideas: Use this as a dip, drizzle, or marinade for tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or even eggs!
Nutrition
- Calories: 10
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 0g