Chipotle Sauce
Makes 3 cups

Chipotle is a smoked dried jalapeno.  The Teotihuacan civilization (pre-dates the Aztec civilization) around Mexico City created Chipotle.  You get a smoky and somewhat sweet taste from these chiles.  These chiles are hot and have a strong flavor, so you want to be careful that you do not overpower your recipe.

Ingredients

• 3 - cups hot water

• 4 - dried Chipotle chiles

• 2 - dried New Mexico red chiles

• 1 - Tablespoon butter

• 1 - small onion, chopped

• 2 - cups canned roasted tomatoes, diced

• 1 - cup beef broth

• 3 - Tablespoons cider vinegar

• 1 - Tablespoon brown sugar

• 1/2 - teaspoon salt

• 1/2 - teaspoon pepper

• 1/4 - teaspoon ground cumin

1. Place the chiles in a large bowl and pour in the hot water.  You want to soak the chiles for 15 to 20 minutes or until they are soft. 
2. Drain the chiles and throw away the water.  Remove the chiles’ stems and chop.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté the onion until they are soft but not brown. 
4. Add the chiles and now the tomatoes, beef broth, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and cumin.  Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to thicken.
5. Put the sauce in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.  Do not strain.  P
6. lace in refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes before serving.  You can use this recipe for dips and sauce on your favorite dish.

Picnicking & Tailgating:  

This recipe and be done a day or two ahead.  Just place the sauce in a jar and close the lid.  Place in the ice chest until you reach your destination.  Just open and pour into a paper or plastic serving bowl.