The Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe brings bold, smoky flavors to your kitchen. This versatile condiment transforms tacos, enchiladas, and more with its rich taste. It’s a fan favorite from HelloFresh meal kits.
Making this paste at home is simple and cost-effective. With pantry staples, you can recreate its sweet, savory, and spicy profile. It’s perfect for adding a Tex-Mex kick to any dish.
This article guides you through crafting the Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe. We’ll cover ingredients, steps, and creative uses. Get ready to elevate your meals with this flavorful paste.
What Is Tex Mex Paste?
Tex Mex paste is a thick, concentrated condiment. It blends fire-roasted tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and spices for a smoky, spicy flavor. HelloFresh uses it in Mexican-inspired dishes.
The paste combines sweet, savory, and spicy notes. It’s ideal for tacos, marinades, or soups. Its versatility makes it a kitchen staple.
Inspired by Texan and Mexican cuisines, it’s bold yet balanced. It adds depth to proteins, veggies, and grains. Let’s explore the ingredients behind its magic.
Ingredients for Tex Mex Paste
The Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe uses a mix of bold ingredients. Core components include fire-roasted tomatoes, chipotle peppers in adobo, and tomato paste. Spices like cumin, chili powder, and cocoa powder add depth.
Fire-roasted tomatoes bring smoky sweetness. Chipotle peppers provide heat and complexity. Onions, garlic, and spices round out the flavor.
Optional additions like honey or lime juice enhance balance. Fresh, high-quality ingredients ensure the best results. Here’s how to combine them.
Hello Fresh Tex Mex Paste Recipe
The Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe combines 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes, 2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 small onion, 2 garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon honey. This yields about 1 cup of paste. It’s enough for 4–6 servings.
In a food processor, blend onion, garlic, tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and tomato paste until smooth. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a saucepan over medium-low, add the puree, and stir in spices, vinegar, and honey. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until thick, then cool and blend again for smoothness.
Adjust chipotle for heat or honey for sweetness. Store in an airtight container. Use within a week or freeze for longer storage.
How to Prepare the Paste
Gather your ingredients and a food processor. Dice the onion and mince garlic for easier blending. Measure spices accurately for balance.
Blend onion, garlic, fire-roasted tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and tomato paste until smooth. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium-low. Add the puree and stir in cumin, chili powder, cocoa powder, vinegar, and honey.
Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The paste should thicken to a barbecue sauce consistency. Cool slightly and blend again for a smoother texture.
Customizing Your Tex Mex Paste
The Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe is easy to tweak. Use fewer chipotle peppers for a milder flavor. Add an extra pepper or cayenne for more heat.
For a sweeter profile, increase honey to 2 teaspoons. Lime juice can replace vinegar for a citrusy tang. Taste and adjust during simmering.
If cocoa powder feels bold, reduce to ¼ teaspoon. Smoked paprika can enhance smokiness. Experiment to find your perfect balance.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Quantity (for 1 cup) |
|---|---|---|
| Fire-Roasted Tomatoes | Smoky, sweet base | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Chipotle Peppers | Heat and smoky complexity | 2–3 peppers |
| Cocoa Powder | Subtle depth and richness | ½ teaspoon |
Uses for Tex Mex Paste
This paste is perfect for seasoning proteins. Mix into ground beef or chicken for tacos or enchiladas. It creates a bold, flavorful base.
Add to soups or stews for a Tex-Mex twist. Stir into chili or tortilla soup for depth. It also works as a marinade for grilled meats.
Use as a dip or spread. Mix with sour cream for a zesty dip. Spread on tortillas for burritos or quesadillas.
Dishes to Try with the Paste
Here are some dishes to enhance with the Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe:
- Beef Tacos: Mix paste into ground beef for bold flavor.
- Enchilada Sauce: Combine with broth for a rich sauce.
- Mexican Rice: Stir into rice with cilantro and lime.
- Veggie Bowls: Toss with roasted sweet potatoes and beans.
These ideas showcase the paste’s versatility. It works for meat, vegetarian, or grain-based dishes. Get creative with your meals.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Store the paste in an airtight glass jar in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 1 week. Stir before using to blend any separation.
For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Pop out cubes for easy portioning. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Check for off smells before use. Use glass containers to avoid staining. Label with the date to track freshness.
Benefits of Making Your Own Paste
Making the Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe saves money. Pantry ingredients are cheaper than meal kits. You control the quality and flavor.
Customize heat, sweetness, or smokiness to your taste. Adjust chipotle or honey for your preference. It’s ideal for gluten-free or vegetarian diets.
The paste is free of artificial preservatives. Spices like cumin offer antioxidants. It’s a healthy way to boost flavor.
Tips for Perfect Paste
Use 2–3 tablespoons per pound of meat or vegetables. This delivers bold flavor without overwhelming. Adjust based on your taste.
Simmer on medium-low to avoid burning the sugars. Stir frequently for even thickening. A non-stick saucepan prevents sticking.
Roast garlic for a milder, nuttier flavor. Wrap in foil with olive oil and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. This enhances the paste’s depth.
Pairing with Complementary Ingredients
The paste pairs well with lime juice and cilantro. These add brightness and freshness to dishes. Use in tacos or bowls for balance.
Combine with sour cream or avocado for creamy richness. They temper the paste’s heat. Great for dips or toppings.
Try with rice, quinoa, or corn for hearty meals. The paste enhances their mild flavors. Perfect for Tex-Mex-inspired dishes.
Why This Paste Is a Kitchen Staple
The Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe is bold and versatile. Its smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors elevate simple ingredients. It’s a go-to for quick meals.
The recipe is beginner-friendly and forgiving. Small tweaks won’t ruin the balance. It delivers restaurant-quality taste at home.
With pantry staples, you can make a batch in about 30 minutes. It’s a must-have for Tex-Mex lovers. Keep it ready for instant flavor.
Nutritional Information
One tablespoon of the paste has about 25 calories. It contains 1 gram of fat, 4 grams of carbs, and 1 gram of protein. Sodium is around 200 milligrams due to tomato paste and chipotle.
The paste is gluten-free and vegetarian. Use low-sodium tomato paste for a healthier option. It’s a flavorful addition to balanced meals.
Spices like cumin and chili powder offer antioxidants. Use sparingly if watching sodium or sugar. Pair with fresh vegetables for nutrition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t skip roasting the garlic. Raw garlic can overpower the paste. Roast at 400°F for 30 minutes for a milder flavor.
Avoid high heat when simmering. Sugars can burn, creating a bitter taste. Use medium-low and stir often.
Don’t use watery tomatoes. Fire-roasted canned tomatoes ensure a thick consistency. Drain excess liquid before blending.
Enhancing Your Dishes
Mix the paste into guacamole for a smoky twist. It adds depth to avocado’s creaminess. Top with fresh cilantro for balance.
Use as a base for Tex-Mex pizza. Spread on dough with cheese and peppers. It creates a bold, flavorful crust.
Stir into scrambled eggs for a breakfast twist. Add onions and cheese for a hearty dish. The paste makes mornings exciting.
Troubleshooting the Paste
If the paste is too thick, add a teaspoon of water or broth. Stir while simmering to reach the desired consistency. This prevents a gummy texture.
If too thin, simmer longer or add a bit more tomato paste. Cook for an extra 5 minutes. Stir to avoid burning.
If too spicy, add ½ teaspoon more honey. This balances the heat. Taste and adjust before cooling.
Summary
The Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe is a smoky, spicy condiment that elevates Tex-Mex dishes. Made with fire-roasted tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and spices, it’s easy to whip up in 30 minutes. Perfect for tacos, enchiladas, or marinades, it’s versatile and customizable for heat or sweetness. Store it in the fridge for a week or freeze for months. This gluten-free, vegetarian paste is budget-friendly and free of artificial additives. It’s a kitchen staple that brings bold, restaurant-quality flavor to everyday meals. Keep it on hand for quick, delicious dishes.
FAQ
What is the Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe?
Blend 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes, 2–3 chipotle peppers, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 onion, 2 garlic cloves, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp cocoa powder, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp honey. Simmer for 15–20 minutes. Yields 1 cup for 4–6 servings.
How long does the Tex Mex paste last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Freeze in ice cube trays for 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Can I make the paste less spicy?
Use 1–2 chipotle peppers instead of 3 for milder flavor. Reduce chili powder to ½ tsp. Add more honey for sweetness if needed.
What dishes can I use the paste in?
Use in tacos, enchiladas, chili, or as a marinade for meats. Stir into rice or soups for flavor. It’s great for dips or spreads too.
Is the Tex Mex paste gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. Check chipotle and tomato paste labels for cross-contamination. Use low-sodium options for healthier results.
How much paste should I use?
Use 2–3 tbsp per pound of meat or vegetables. Adjust for desired flavor intensity. Mix with oil or broth for marinades or sauces.