How to Make Chili bean sauce

• Start by rinsing the chili beans under cold water and draining them well.
• In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
• Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, paprika, ground coriander, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to release the flavors.
• Add the chili beans to the pan and stir well to coat them with the spice mixture.
• Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
• After 30 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
• Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until you reach a smooth consistency. If needed, add more vegetable broth to adjust the thickness.
• Return the sauce to the heat and stir in the vinegar. If desired, add sugar to balance the flavors.
• Simmer the sauce for an additional 10 minutes to allow the vinegar to mellow and the flavors to fully develop.
• Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool completely before transferring it to a jar or airtight container.

The chili bean sauce is typically served as a condiment or dipping sauce for various dishes in Chinese cuisine. It pairs well with stir-fries, rice dishes, noodles, dumplings, and even grilled meats or vegetables. Its spicy and savory flavor adds a kick to the dishes, making it a popular choice among chili lovers.

In conclusion, chili bean sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment originating from China. With its rich blend of chili beans, spices, and other seasonings, it adds a fiery and tangy dimension to dishes. Its nutritional profile is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for adding flavor without adding excessive calories to your meals.

Facts about the sauce:

1. Chili bean sauce is a staple ingredient in Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold and spicy flavors.
2. It is made from fermented soybeans, chili peppers, and other seasonings.
3. The fermentation process gives the sauce its complex umami flavor.
4. Chili bean sauce can vary in spiciness depending on the type and amount of chili peppers used.
5. It can be found in different textures, ranging from chunky to smooth, to suit different culinary preferences.
6. The sauce is often aged for months or even years to enhance its flavor and complexity.