Do you dream of recreating that magic of Mexican pizza, sauce, and all? The crisp crust, the melty cheese, it’s all clear. But the sauce, that smoky, spicy enigma?
Don’t worry, amigo!
Today’s your lucky day.
We’re cracking the code of Mexican pizza sauce!
Get ready because we’re about to uncover its secrets, compare it to its classic pizza sauce cousin, and even share a recipe to bring the fiesta to your kitchen. Get ready to spice up your pizza game!
What is Mexican Pizza Sauce?
“Mexican Pizza Sauce” can be a tricky term, as it doesn’t refer to a specific, standardized Mexican pizza sauce.
It often describes the sauce used on Taco Bell’s famous “Mexican Pizza,” which is a unique blend, not a traditional Mexican condiment.
Here’s what to know:
Taco Bell’s Version
The sauce on Taco Bell’s pizza isn’t a simple tomato sauce. It’s a thicker, richer blend with hints of smoke and spice. Some speculate it’s a modified enchilada sauce, and others believe it’s a combination of tomato paste, enchilada sauce, and chunky salsa. Taco Bell itself hasn’t officially revealed the recipe.
Home-Made Options
If you’re craving the “Mexican Pizza” taste, you can try recreating the sauce at home. Recipes online offer various interpretations, often mixing tomato sauce with enchilada sauce, green chiles, chili powder, cumin, and garlic for a smoky, zesty flavor. Another simpler way can be combining enchilada sauce with Herdez chunky salsa and some tomato paste (optionally).
Regional Variations
In Mexico itself, there isn’t a single “Mexican Pizza Sauce.” Regional pizza variations exist, but the sauces differ from Taco Bell’s version. Some might use chipotle peppers, tomatillos, or other local ingredients for a distinct taste.
What is the Difference Between Pizza Sauce and Mexican Pizza Sauce?
Pizza sauce and Mexican pizza sauce are actually quite different!
Here’s a breakdown:
Ingredients
Pizza sauce is made with tomato paste, spices like oregano and basil, some extra virgin olive oil, and maybe a touch of sugar and seasoning. It’s a simple, sweet-and-savory blend. Traditional Italian pizza sauce doesn’t require cooking the sauce, but American versions may call for an extra step of cooking.
Mexican pizza sauce ingredients vary, including tomato sauce, chilies, onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and chili powder. But considering the Taco Bell pizza sauce standard, it’s thought to be a combination of tomato sauce and enchilada sauce.
Texture
Pizza sauce features a thinner and smoother texture, easily spreadable on the pizza crust.
Mexican pizza sauce tends to be thicker and chunkier owing to the use of chunky salsa in tomato sauce. It adds more texture and depth to the bites.
Taste
Pizza sauce tastes sweet and savory, with a classic tomato base. It’s familiar and comforting, complementing the other pizza toppings.
Mexican pizza sauce, on the other hand, is spicier and smokier, with a bolder punch of flavor. It stands out on its own and adds a Mexican twist to the pizza.
Origin
Pizza sauce has evolved from Italian tomato sauces, adapting to suit pizza’s unique taste profile. Today, you can find several versions of pizza sauce with slight variations in authentic Italian pizza sauce.
In contrast, Mexican pizza sauce is a fusion of American pizza sauce inspired by Mexican flavors. Think Taco Bell’s famous “Mexican Pizza.”
So, which one is Better?
It depends on your taste! If you crave a classic pizza experience, go for the simple and sweet pizza sauce. If you want something more adventurous, try the Mexican pizza sauce for a spicy, smoky kick.
Recipe for Making Mexican Pizza Sauce–Taco Bell Version
Forget juggling a chorus of spices!
This quick and easy Mexican pizza sauce packs a punch of flavor with just 3 key ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 (10 oz) can of enchilada sauce (medium or mild, depending on your heat preference)
- 1/2 cup chunky salsa (choose your favorite brand, but fire-roasted adds depth)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the tomato paste, enchilada sauce, and salsa. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
- Take a small taste and adjust it to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or a squeeze of lime juice for a touch of tang.
- Spread the sauce generously over your pizza crust, top with your favorite Mexican-inspired ingredients (think bell peppers, onions, jalapeños, chorizo, black beans, etc.), and bake according to your usual pizza routine.
With just a few high-quality ingredients, each note shines through. The enchilada sauce adds smoky warmth, the salsa injects a vibrant kick, and the tomato paste provides a rich base.
This base sauce is your blank canvas! Play with different salsa varieties, add a dollop of sour cream, or sprinkle in some chopped cilantro for endless flavor variations.
Enjoy your Mexican pizza fiesta!
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