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Homemade Baja sauce in a bowl, ready to serve with tacos, a Taco Bell copycat recipe

Baja Sauce - Recipe Card

Max
This recipe is perfect for fish tacos, shrimp tacos, or any taco dish; this creamy, smoky Baja sauce adds the perfect flavor. Try it today for a mouthwatering taco experience.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Course sauce
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 5
Calories 75 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Mayonnaise or vegan mayo – This will be the base of your sauce, giving it a smooth and creamy texture. You can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy twist.
  • Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce – These smoky spicy peppers bring the distinct flavor of Baja. For a milder sauce, use less chipotle or opt for jalapeños.
  • Lime juice – A must for that zesty tang that cuts through the richness of the mayo.
  • Garlic powder – Adds depth to the flavor without overpowering the sauce.
  • Onion powder – Brings a subtle sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
  • Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a pop of flavor and brightness.
  • Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.

Instructions
 

  • First, combine your mayo or vegan mayo in a bowl. Add the lime juice and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (or jalapeños for a milder version). Stir the mixture well until smooth and creamy. This forms the base of your sauce.
  • Next, mix in the garlic powder and onion powder for that perfect balance of flavors. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Fresh cilantro is the secret to that burst of freshness, so don’t forget to chop it finely and stir it into the sauce.
  • Once everything is well combined, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like more heat, add extra chipotle or hot sauce. Let the sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial to deepen the flavors and make the sauce even more delicious.

Video

Notes

  • Adjust the heat: Add more chipotle peppers for extra spice or jalapeños for a milder option.
  • Substitute mayo: For a tangier, lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
  • Add extra flavors: For more complexity, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or a squeeze of orange juice.
  • Double the batch: This sauce stores well in the fridge, so consider making extra to use throughout the week.
Storage and Freezing
To store your Baja sauce, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing it in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw and give it a good stir.

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 75kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 135mg | Potassium: 45mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 48IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 0.1mg

 

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