Authentic Guajillo Sauce Recipe (AKA Chile Colorado)

Español Learn to make Guajillo Sauce also known as chile colorado from a Mexican cook.

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Guajillo sauce is a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine. From enchiladas to menudo and even barbacoa, this versatile sauce transforms dishes with just a few small tweaks. For example, take enchiladas rojas—just add a stick of cinnamon to your guajillo sauce, let it simmer for five minutes, and voilà! You’ve got yourself an authentic Mexican red enchilada sauce that tastes like it came straight from your abuelita’s kitchen.

In my hometown of Chihuahua and also in Durango, chile colorado is just another name for guajillo sauce. If you’re looking for dishes like pork or beef in this vibrant red sauce, we’d call them cerdo en chile colorado or carne en chile colorado, but the sauce itself is simply referred to as chile colorado. Wondering what “colorado” means? In Spanish we use it to describe anything with a deep red hue.

This traditional guajillo sauce recipe is made with dried guajillo chiles or the dried form of the mirasol pepper, gets its name from that striking red color. It’s a medium-heat chile sauce that’s versatile, flavorful, and a staple in Mexican recipes.

 So, after this little crash course in Mexican food terminology, let’s get cooking! Trust me, once you make this sauce, you’ll want to use it in everything!

What is Guajillo Sauce Made Of?

Chile colorado (aka guajillo salsa) is made with a blend of dried guajillo peppers, garlic, oregano, cumin, and salt. Some variations add mirasol or ancho chiles for a unique twist. This recipe follows the style of northern Mexico, especially from my hometown, Chihuahua.

Is Guajillo Sauce Spicy?

Not typically! Chile guajillo peppers are mild and rich in flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a few mirasol or chile de árbol peppers.

Traditional Chile Colorado Sauce Recipe

Sauce Ingredients

• 4 oz dried guajillo chilies
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 ½ cups of water (add more for desired consistency)
• ½ tsp cumin
• 1 tsp Mexican oregano
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions

• 1- Heat a griddle on medium heat ad place the guajillos on top, let them toast for about 12 seconds on each side. Make sure that you take them out the grill as soon as they start smelling. This technique helps to bring the oils that are in the chiles and enhance the recipe flavor, but you can skip tis step and still have a delicious sauce.

• 2- Boil 4 cups of water, turn off the heat, and soak the guajillo peppers for 10 minutes or until softened (Make sure you have enough hot water to cover the dried chiles).  This step brings out their vibrant red color and smooth texture.

• 3- Get rid of the chili peppers branches and transfer the guajillos to a blender. Add 1 cup of soaking water, garlic, cumin, oregano, and salt. Blend until smooth.

• 4- Strain the blended sauce through a fine sieve to remove seeds and skin. This step ensures a velvety consistency.

• 5-Pour the strained sauce into a pot, add an additional cup of water, and bring it to a gentle boil. Adjust salt and water until you achieve the right consistency. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

What Can I Prepare With This Sauce?

Here are some of my favorite dishes to make with this chile colorado sauce:

• Tacos de Adobada
• Barbacoa
• Birria
• Frijoles Puercos
• Pavo Adobado
• Enchiladas Rojas
• Chilaquiles
• Menudo
• Pozole Rojo

FAQs About Chile Colorado and Guajillo Sauce

Is Chile Colorado the Same as Guajillo sauce?

Yes! In many regions, chile colorado refers to a sauce made from guajillo peppers. It’s known for its red color and earthy, slightly smoky flavor.

What is the Difference Between Colorado Sauce and Enchilada Sauce?

Both are red sauces, but enchilada sauce often includes cinnamon and chile ancho to bring a little stweetness, while chile colorado is purely chile-based. The guajillo-forward flavor of chile colorado makes it a richer, more authentic option for traditional Mexican dishes.

Is Chile Colorado Spicy to Eat?

Not usually! Guajillo peppers are mild, making the sauce flavorful but not overly spicy. If you love heat, add some mirasol or chile de árbol for extra spice.

Why is it Called Chile Colorado?

The name comes from its bright red color—”colorado” means red in Spanish. This vivid hue comes from the guajillo peppers, the star ingredient.

What is a good guajillo substitute?

If you don’t have guajillo peppers, you can substitute them with mirasol chile. The flavors are similar, though mirasol peppers tend to be spicier. Adjust to your taste preferences!

How to store

Place in an airtight container in the fridge, it can last up to five days.

Can I freeze chile colorado?

Yes you can! I usually make a big batch and freez it in small portions and use it for my recipes.

Other family favorite Chile Sauces 

• Authentic Molcajete Salsa│Mexican Salsa Molcajeteada
• Salsa Taquera Recipe︱Street Stand Taqueria-style Favorite
• Creamy Avocado Salsa