Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 medium chile peppers, such as poblano, New Mexico or Anaheim, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 pounds tomatoes, diced (about 4 1/2 cups)
• 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder, or chili powder (see Shopping Tip)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoon lime juice

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Cooking Directions

Step 1

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion, chile peppers and garlic and cook, stirring, until the onion is soft and beginning to brown, 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 2

Reduce heat to medium. Add tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt and cayenne. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and thickened slightly, 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 3

Carefully transfer the tomato mixture to a food processor or blender. Pulse to make a chunky sauce, or until desired consistency. (Use caution when pureeing hot ingredients.)

Step 4

Let cool to room temperature, about 11/2 hours. Stir in cilantro and lime juice just before serving.