Mexican adobo sauce is an all-purpose marinade made of dried hot peppers, spices and vinegar. This sauce gives big flavor to a wide variety of dishes. Thanks to the OSU Latin Heritage Work Group for this tasty recipe.
Mexican Adobo Sauce

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 2 ½ cups
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 2 ½ cups
Ingredients
2 cups very hot water
3 ancho peppers, stems and seeds removed (see Notes)
4 guajillo peppers, stems and seeds removed
2 pasilla peppers, stems and seeds removed
1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
½ cup chopped onion
4 cloves garlic, chopped
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon oregano (try Mexican oregano)
½ teaspoon each salt and black pepper
½ cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
½ cup water
Directions
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- Rinse or scrub fresh vegetables under running water before preparing.
- In a skillet over medium heat, dry roast the peppers for 30 to 60 seconds on each side. Put peppers into a bowl, cover with hot water and let them soak until soft, about 15 minutes.
- While the peppers are soaking, heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions until they soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the cumin, oregano, salt and black pepper. Turn off heat.
- Pour vinegar and ½ cup water into a blender. Add softened peppers and onion mixture. Blend together on high speed until the mixture is smooth. Scrape the sides of the blender as needed. Add more water, if desired, for the thickness you like.
- Transfer the sauce to a container and refrigerate or freeze until needed.
Notes
- Look for dried hot peppers in the Latin or International section of most grocery stores or in a Latin market.
- You can make this sauce with different dried peppers. The overall flavor and heat will depend on the types of peppers used. California, Colorado, ancho and pasilla peppers can be similarly hot though Californa and Colorado may be milder. Guajillo peppers have heat similar to chipotle peppers. Chile seco, casabel, chile de arbol and cayenne have much higher heat so substitute carefully with them. See the Hot Pepper Food Hero Monthly for more information about using dried hot peppers.
- Use adobo sauce to marinate or stew a variety of proteins, such as chicken, pork, beef and tofu.
- Add to flavor enchiladas, burritos, pasta, soups, beans or grains.
- Mix with sour cream or plain yogurt for a sauce to drizzle over tacos and quesadillas.
- Most homemade sauces are safe refrigerated for up to 4 days. The vinegar in this sauce may keep it safe in the refrigerator longer, but look carefully for signs of spoilage before using. If you notice any signs of mold, off-color or an unpleasant odor, throw away the sauce.
You might also like...
Roasted Green Beans

Roasted Green Beans
A simple and easy recipe for making summer fresh green beans. The perfect side for any meal.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Kale and Cranberry Stir-Fry

Kale and Cranberry Stir-Fry
A sweet and savory recipe with a hint of fresh citrus. A great way to add dark leafy greens to your meals!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
5 minutes
Makes:
5 cups
Mix and Match Vegetable Chowder

Mix and Match Vegetable Chowder
You’ll always enjoy this hearty chowder recipe. Change it up with the ingredients and spices you have on hand.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
40 minutes
Makes:
4 Servings
Festive Tortillas

Festive Tortillas
Make your own colorful, easy and delicious tortillas with added vegetables. Enjoy with your favorite fillings and toppings!
Prepare:
30 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 tortillas
Mashed Parsnips and Potatoes

Mashed Parsnips and Potatoes
Hearty, buttery root vegetables mashed with creamy yogurt and seasoned with garlic.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
25 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Garlic Ginger Ramen with Beef

Garlic Ginger Ramen with Beef
A dinner that is ready in under 30 minutes and packed with fresh ginger and garlic flavor.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
6 Cups