Our Magnolia Cafe connection tells us that this chipotle sauce can be used as a “very hot” dip, but that it is probably better used as an enchilada sauce. He’s right! This chipotle sauce tastes great when just snacking on tortilla chips, but also on enchiladas. This is not just Tex-Mex, folks. It’s Aus-Mex.
The Magnolia Cafe is a classic, beloved diner in Austin, Texas. I still make it a point to visit whenever I am in Austin. Chipotle Sauce is also the secret ingredient in the Magnolia’s excellent Chicken Tortilla Soup.

Description
Wonderful chipotle sauce for tortilla chips and Tex-Mex dishes like enchiladas, burritos and soups. From the Magnolia Cafe in Austin, Texas.
Ingredients
- 1 small can (7-ounce) chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 2 14.5-ounce cans chopped tomatoes (not stewed tomatoes with peppers and onions)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup minced fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and purée in a blender or food processor.
Notes
Chipotles are smoked, dried jalapeños. Outside the southwestern U.S., canned chipotles in adobo sauce may be found in the Mexican food section of many supermarkets. Most grocery stores stock these little power-packed cans of chilis.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Recipes
- Tomatillo Sauce
- Chile con Carne Sauce
- Ranchero Sauce (Red Sauce) from Kerbey Lane Cafe
- Fresh Pico de Gallo