Picante Sauce

Hot pepper sauce and a jalapeno pepper give this snappy sauce just the right amount of zip. It makes a great dip for tortilla chips or a tangy sauce for tacos and fajitas. In Spanish, "picante sauce" just means "spicy sauce". Pace is believed to be the inventor of this sauce which is similar to salsa, but has a different consistency.

1 (14½ oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
½ cup onion, coarsely chopped
½ cup fresh cilantro, minced
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and halved
3 Tbsp. lime juice, freshly squeezed
1 Tbsp. chili powder
1 clove garlic, halved
½ tsp. sea salt
¼ tsp. lime zest, freshly grated
5 drops hot pepper sauce

In a blender, combine all ingredients; cover and process until smooth.

Store in a jar and refrigerate before using.

Makes about 2 cups.

Cook's Note:  Wear disposable gloves when cutting hot peppers; the oils can burn skin. Avoid touching your face.