In the world of Latin-inspired cuisine, criolla sauce is one of the most flavorful and versatile sauces. Rich in tradition and bursting with vibrant flavors, criolla sauce has earned its place at the heart of countless home-cooked meals. If you’re curious about criolla sauce—whether it’s tasty, how to make it, or how spicy it is—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from its roots to its recipes.
What is criolla sauce?
Criolla sauce, a savory and mildly tangy tomato-based sauce, is commonly used in Latin American cuisine. This sauce is known for its comforting, home-style flavor and typically features a combination of sautéed onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, vinegar, and aromatic herbs. The ingredients are gently simmered until the flavors meld into a cohesive, deeply satisfying base.
Though the exact ingredients and preparation techniques may vary by region or household, criolla sauce’s essence remains the same: it brings warmth and balance to a dish. It enhances stews, braised meats, vegetables, and empanadas.
In essence, criolla sauce serves as a culinary bridge between rustic simplicity and vibrant flavor.
Common uses in everyday cooking
One of the defining features of criolla sauce is its versatility. It isn’t limited to one dish or occasion. Instead, it plays a central role in many traditional dishes. You might find it coating tender beef, simmering with root vegetables, or warming seafood.
Depending on how it’s used, this sauce acts as a seasoning, a marinade, or a finishing touch. It adds moisture and depth to meats, especially in slow-cooked dishes. In ground beef dishes, for example, it introduces a contrast of sweetness from the tomatoes and savoriness from the herbs and olives that are often added during cooking.
From weekday meals to weekend gatherings, criolla sauce offers that signature flavor which immediately evokes comfort and home.
Criolla Sauce Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Making criolla sauce from scratch is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple, traditional recipe you can try at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richness)
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
- Then, mix in the vinegar, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have blended, remove it from the heat.
- For a smoother texture, blend slightly with an immersion blender. For a rustic look, leave it chunky.
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze it in portions for later use.
Is criolla sauce spicy?
A common question that arises is: Is criolla sauce spicy? The short answer is no—at least not traditionally.
Criolla sauce is known for its savory, mildly tangy flavor, not its heat. Its ingredients are flavorful yet gentle on the palate. However, it’s adaptable. If you prefer a spicier version, you can add chili flakes or finely chopped hot peppers to the mix. However, the classic version is deliberately mild, making it a family-friendly sauce that appeals to people of all ages and tastes.
A taste of tradition at Havana 1957
If you want to experience criolla sauce with Cuban flavors, there’s one place that does it best: Havana 1957. This restaurant offers criolla sauce with several dishes, such as flank steak empanadas, seafood stew, and stewed ground beef. The sauce is crafted in-house and simmered to perfection, reflecting the tradition and authenticity of Cuban comfort food.
Havana 1957’s criolla sauce strikes the perfect balance between robust flavor and smooth texture, enhancing meats and seafood without overpowering the natural flavors. Whether tucked inside a crispy empanada or stewed into a rich, savory base, the restaurant’s criolla sauce offers a delicious introduction to this beloved culinary staple.
Reserve your table at Havana 1957 at the location of your choice:
Havana 1957 – Ocean Drive & 14th Street
Havana 1957 – Ocean Drive & 9th Street
Havana 1957 – Pembroke Pines Mall
Tips for serving criolla sauce at home
After making your own criolla sauce, there are many ways to incorporate it into your everyday meals.
- Over grilled or roasted meats: Spoon it on top for a quick flavor boost.
- With rice and beans: This classic combination feels hearty and satisfying.
- Use it as a base for stews. Add it to your pot with meat or vegetables for added depth of flavor.
- In empanadas or stuffed pastries: Fold it into the filling to enhance its richness and moisture.
- As a dip or spread: Serve with yuca fries, bread, or plantain chips.
It stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
Why you should try criolla sauce
Criolla sauce may not be as well-known as other condiments, but it’s hard to forget once you try it. The combination of vegetables, herbs, and spices creates a comforting, savory profile that’s also adaptable.
No matter how you enjoy it—whether you’re making it from scratch, enjoying it at a traditional Cuban restaurant like Havana 1957, or experimenting with your own twist—criolla sauce brings warmth and personality to any plate. No matter how you serve it, one thing’s for sure—this humble sauce has the power to transform ordinary meals into extraordinary ones.