Homemade Olo’s Chipotle Paste Recipe: Add a Smoky Kick to Your Dishes

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Chipotle paste is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that adds a spicy, smoky kick to various dishes. Olo’s Chipotle Paste is a favorite, but why not try making it at home? With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a homemade version that tastes just as good—if not better. Whether you’re using it for marinades, sauces, or as a condiment, this Olo’s Chipotle Paste Recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.

What is Olo’s Chipotle Paste?

Olo’s Chipotle Paste is a rich, smoky chili paste made from chipotle peppers, which are dried and smoked jalapeños. The paste has a deep, earthy flavor with medium heat, making it a perfect ingredient for a wide range of dishes—from Mexican cuisine to grilled meats, roasted veggies, and even sandwiches.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through how to make your very own Homemade Olo’s Chipotle Paste with fresh ingredients and no preservatives.

How to make Olo’s Chipotle Paste

Ingredients for Homemade Olo’s Chipotle Paste

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful chipotle paste:

• 6-8 dried chipotle peppers: These provide the smoky, spicy base for the paste.
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste: This adds thickness and a slight sweetness to balance the heat.
• 3 cloves of garlic: Garlic brings a sharp, pungent flavor to complement the smokiness of the chipotles.
• 1/4 cup of olive oil: Used to blend the ingredients smoothly and enhance the richness of the paste.
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy note and helps preserve the paste.
• 1 teaspoon of cumin: Provides a warm, earthy flavor that enhances the overall depth of the paste.
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika: This amplifies the smokiness of the chipotles.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Earthy and warm, complements the chipotle flavour.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt: For seasoning and balance.
• 1/2 teaspoon of sugar: Adds a slight sweetness to mellow out the heat and acidity.
• Water as needed: To adjust the consistency of the paste.

Instructions: How to Make Olo’s Chipotle Paste

Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Peppers

Start by removing the stems and seeds from the 6-8 dried chipotle peppers. Place them in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let the peppers soak for about 20-30 minutes until they become soft and pliable.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

Once the chipotle peppers have softened, drain them and add them to a blender or food processor. Add the tomato paste, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and sugar to the blender.

Blend the mixture until smooth, adding water one tablespoon at a time as needed to achieve the desired consistency. The paste should be thick, but smooth enough to spread easily.

Step 3: Adjust the Flavor

Taste the paste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add more salt, vinegar, or sugar depending on your flavor preference.

Step 4: Store the Chipotle Paste

Transfer the paste to an airtight jar or container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze portions for later use.

Tips for Making the Best Chipotle Paste

1. Soak the Peppers Thoroughly
   Ensure the dried chipotle peppers are fully soaked and soft before blending. This helps create a smoother texture for the paste.
2. Adjust the Spice Level
   If you prefer a milder paste, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or mix in a milder chili like ancho. For extra heat, add a few seeds from the peppers back into the blend.
3. Add More Flavor
   Customize the flavor of your chipotle paste by adding different spices. Ground coriander, oregano, or even a pinch of cinnamon can add interesting dimensions to the paste.
4. Use a High-Quality Blender
   For the smoothest paste, use a high-powered blender or food processor. If you find the paste is too chunky, add more olive oil or water and blend again.
5. Store it Right
   Storing your homemade Olo’s Chipotle Paste in an airtight container helps maintain its flavor and prevent spoilage. If you want to extend its shelf life, freezing the paste in small portions is a great option.

What to Serve with Olo’s Chipotle Paste

Chipotle paste is incredibly versatile, so you can pair it with a wide variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

How and Where to Use Chipotle Paste

Chipotle paste is a powerhouse of smoky, spicy flavor that can transform a wide variety of dishes. Here are some of the best ways to use it in your cooking:

1. Grilled Meats

Chipotle paste is perfect for marinating meat, poultry, or even vegetables. Simply mix it with olive oil, lime juice, and your favorite spices to create a flavorful marinade. Use it on:

• Grilled chicken: Marinate chicken thighs or breasts for a smoky, spicy kick before grilling.
• Steak: Brush the paste onto steaks before searing or grilling to add a deep, smoky flavor.
• Roasted vegetables: Toss vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or cauliflower in chipotle paste before roasting to enhance their natural sweetness with a hint of spice.

2. Sauces

Chipotle paste can be mixed into various sauces to add depth and smokiness. It works well in:

• Barbecue sauce: Stir some paste into your BBQ sauce for extra heat and flavor.
• Creamy chipotle sauce: Mix it with mayonnaise, sour cream, or yogurt for a delicious dip or spread that pairs well with tacos, burgers, or sandwiches.
• Pasta sauce: Add a spoonful to tomato-based sauces for an extra smoky twist.

3. Tacos and Burritos

Elevate your taco or burrito fillings by stirring a small amount of chipotle paste into ground beef, shredded chicken, or sautéed veggies. You can also spread it directly onto tortillas for an extra burst of flavor.

4. Soups and Stews

Chipotle paste adds depth and warmth to soups and stews, making them perfect for chilly nights. Try adding it to:

• Chili: Stir a spoonful of chipotle paste into your chili for a smoky, spicy undertone.
• Bean soups: It works particularly well in black bean or lentil soups, adding a rich flavor profile.
• Stews: Add it to slow-cooked beef or chicken stews to enhance the heartiness of the dish.

5. Spreads and Sandwiches

Take your sandwiches to the next level by spreading chipotle paste on your bread before adding fillings. It’s great on:

• Burgers: Mix chipotle paste with mayonnaise and spread it on your burger buns.
• Grilled cheese: Add a thin layer to your grilled cheese sandwich for a spicy kick.
• Avocado toast: Spread a little on toast before adding avocado for a smoky, spicy breakfast.

6. Egg Dishes

Chipotle paste pairs wonderfully with eggs. Stir it into scrambled eggs, fold it into an omelet, or drizzle it over a fried egg for a smoky start to your day. It can also be used to add flavor to:

• Breakfast burritos: Mix it with your scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese for a flavorful breakfast.
• Shakshuka: Add a spoonful to the tomato sauce in this North African dish for extra depth and spice.

7. Pizza and Flatbreads

Chipotle paste can be spread on pizza dough or flatbreads before adding your favorite toppings. It pairs especially well with:

• Cheese pizzas: Spread a thin layer of chipotle paste on the dough before adding mozzarella for a smoky, spicy pizza.
• Veggie flatbreads: Top with roasted veggies, goat cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Substitutes for Olo’s Chipotle Paste

While Olo’s Chipotle Paste is a unique ingredient, there are some substitutes you can use if you don’t have the exact ingredients on hand. Here are a few options:

1. Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika is one of the key flavors in chipotle paste. If you don’t have chipotle peppers, you can use smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor. Combine it with tomato paste, garlic, and cumin for a quick substitute.

2. Ancho Chili Paste

Ancho chilis are milder than chipotle peppers but still provide a deep, earthy flavor. You can use an ancho chili paste in place of chipotle paste, though the heat level will be lower.

3. Chipotle Powder

If you don’t have dried chipotle peppers, chipotle powder can be a good alternative. Mix it with olive oil, tomato paste, and garlic for a quick and easy chipotle paste substitute.

4. Adobo Sauce

Chipotles in adobo sauce are a common pantry item that can work as a substitute. Simply blend the chipotles and adobo sauce to create a paste. The adobo sauce is slightly tangy, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 7 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Sodium: 126mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Vitamin A: 496 IU
• Iron: 1mg

Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations, and should be considered estimates.

FAQs while making Olo’s Chipotle Paste

1. How spicy is Olo’s Chipotle Paste?
Olo’s Chipotle Paste has a moderate heat level. The spiciness comes from chipotle peppers, which are smoked jalapeños. If you want to reduce the spice, you can remove the seeds from the peppers or use fewer chipotles in the recipe.

2. How long does homemade chipotle paste last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade chipotle paste can last up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it in small portions to extend its shelf life for several months.

3. Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of dried chipotle peppers?
Fresh jalapeños won’t provide the same smoky flavor that dried and smoked chipotle peppers do. If you only have fresh peppers, you can roast or grill them to add some smokiness, but the flavor will be different.

4. Can I make this recipe without a blender?
Yes, you can chop the ingredients finely by hand and mix them, though the texture will be chunkier. A mortar and pestle can also be used to grind the peppers and other ingredients into a paste.

5. What’s the best way to use chipotle paste?
Chipotle paste is incredibly versatile. You can use it as a marinade for meats, mix it into sauces, add it to soups or stews, or even spread it on sandwiches for extra flavor.

6. Can I make a larger batch and store it for later?
Yes, you can double or triple the recipe and store the extra paste in the freezer. Freeze it in ice cube trays or small containers for easy use.

7. Is Olo’s Chipotle Paste gluten-free?
Yes, this homemade chipotle paste recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients.

8. How do I store chipotle paste?
To store your homemade Olo’s Chipotle Paste, place it in an airtight container or jar and refrigerate. It will last up to two weeks in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the paste in small portions using an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to three months. Simply defrost as needed and enjoy the same great flavor.

Making your own Homemade Olo’s Chipotle Paste is a great way to bring bold, smoky flavors into your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a versatile condiment that will elevate a wide range of dishes.

Whether you’re marinating meats, spicing up tacos, or adding a kick to your soups and stews, this chipotle paste is sure to become a go-to ingredient in your cooking. Plus, by making it yourself, you have complete control over the flavor and spice level.

Give this recipe a try, and soon you’ll find yourself reaching for Olo’s Chipotle Paste every time you want to add a smoky, spicy twist to your meals!