Introduction
If you love the bold, zesty flavors of Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste but want to make it at home, you’re in the right place. This easy Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe delivers the same authentic taste you know and love, perfect for tacos, burritos, and more. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you can whip up a batch in minutes and elevate your Mexican-inspired dishes.
Whether you’re a fan of Hello Fresh meal kits or just looking for a homemade Tex Mex paste recipe, this guide has you covered. We’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and even share tips for customizing the spice level. Let’s dive in!
What Is Tex Mex Paste?
Tex Mex paste is a concentrated blend of spices, herbs, and other ingredients that adds deep, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors to dishes. Unlike dry seasoning mixes, this paste has a rich, spreadable consistency that clings to proteins and veggies, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Hello Fresh’s version is a fan favorite, but making it at home means you can adjust the heat, tweak the ingredients, and always have it on hand. Plus, this homemade Tex Mex paste recipe is free from preservatives and artificial additives.
Hello Fresh Tex Mex Paste Ingredients
To make this copycat Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp chili powder (adjust for spice level)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
These simple pantry staples come together to create a bold, flavorful paste that’s perfect for marinating, seasoning, or even as a base for sauces.
How to Make Hello Fresh Tex Mex Paste
This easy Tex Mex paste recipe takes just 5 minutes to prepare. Follow these simple steps:
- Combine dry spices: In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste and olive oil until fully incorporated.
- Adjust consistency: If the paste is too thick, add water, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired texture.
- Store or use immediately: Transfer to an airtight container or use right away in your favorite recipes.
That’s it! This quick Tex Mex paste is ready to enhance your meals with minimal effort.
Ways to Use Tex Mex Paste
This versatile paste can be used in countless dishes. Here are some delicious ideas:
- Tacos: Mix into ground beef, chicken, or tofu for flavorful taco filling.
- Burritos: Spread a thin layer on tortillas before adding other ingredients.
- Marinades: Combine with lime juice and oil to marinate meats or veggies.
- Dips: Stir into sour cream or Greek yogurt for a spicy dip.
- Soups & stews: Add a spoonful to chili or tortilla soup for extra depth.
Whether you prefer mild or spicy Tex Mex paste, this recipe adapts to your taste buds.
Tips for the Best Tex Mex Paste
To ensure your homemade Tex Mex paste turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Adjust the heat: For a milder paste, reduce or omit the chili powder. For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne.
- Use fresh spices: Old spices lose potency, so check the expiration dates for the best flavor.
- Store properly: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
- Double the batch: Making extra means you’ll always have this flavorful paste on hand.
With these tricks, your Tex Mex flavor paste will rival any store-bought version.
Why Make Homemade Tex Mex Paste?
While Hello Fresh’s Tex Mex paste is convenient, making it at home has several advantages:
- Cost-effective: A single batch costs pennies compared to pre-made versions.
- Customizable: Control the salt, spice, and ingredient quality to suit your preferences.
- No additives: Skip the preservatives and artificial flavors found in some commercial pastes.
- Quick & easy: Ready in minutes with ingredients you likely already have.
Once you try this authentic Tex Mex paste, you may never go back to store-bought!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Tex Mex paste without tomato paste?
Yes! If you don’t have tomato paste, substitute with ketchup (though it will be slightly sweeter) or a small amount of tomato sauce (reduce other liquids to maintain thickness).
How long does homemade Tex Mex paste last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays and thaw as needed.
Is Tex Mex paste gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check individual spice labels if you have dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
This Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold, Mexican-inspired flavors. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a versatile seasoning paste that elevates tacos, burritos, marinades, and more. Plus, it’s easy to tweak the spice level to suit your taste.
Give this homemade Tex Mex paste a try, and you’ll never miss the store-bought version. Happy cooking!