1. What is Tex-Mex paste made of?

Tex-Mex paste is made from chipotle peppers in adobo, roasted garlic, fire-roasted tomatoes, vinegar, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and a touch of cocoa. This combo gives it that bold, smoky-sweet profile that sets it apart from basic sauces.

2. What is a good substitute for Tex-Mex paste?

You can make a quick substitute using tomato paste mixed with taco seasoning, a splash of vinegar, and a little chipotle powder or smoked paprika. It won’t be exactly the same, but it works in a pinch.

3. What is Tex-Mex seasoning made of?

Tex-Mex seasoning usually includes chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and sometimes oregano. It’s a dry spice blend, unlike the wet and richer Tex-Mex paste.

4. Is taco seasoning the same as Tex-Mex paste?

No, they’re different. Taco seasoning is a dry mix, while Tex-Mex paste is a thick, cooked sauce. Paste delivers a deeper, more complex flavor—especially when used in sauces or marinades.

Tex Mex Paste Recipe – 1 Ultimate Bold Flavor You’ll Crave

Name: Tex Mex Paste Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Description

This bold, low-carb tex mex paste brings smoky flavor to any dish. Made with clean, pantry ingredients like chipotle, roasted garlic, and fire-roasted tomatoes, it’s the ultimate southwest kitchen essential.

Ingredients

½ cup chipotle in adobo

1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes

1 whole roasted garlic bulb

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp chili powder

½ tsp cocoa powder

Salt to taste

1 tsp erythritol or monk fruit

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Instructions

1. Roast the garlic bulb at 400°F for 35 minutes until golden and soft.

2. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until mostly smooth.

3. Transfer to a saucepan and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes.

4. Adjust thickness with water or vinegar, if needed.

5. Let cool and store in jars or freeze in portions.

Notes

Store in airtight jars in the fridge up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

For a milder version, reduce chipotle and add fire-roasted red bell pepper.

Perfect for tacos, casseroles, meats, and low-carb bowls.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Condiment
Method: Simmer
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tbsp
Calories: 15
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg