Name: Instant-Pot Ancho Chile Sauce
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Yield: Makes 2 cups
Ingredients: 2 ounces dried ancho chiles (3 to 5 chiles); 2 garlic cloves, lightly smashed; 1 1/2 cups water; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Of all the sauces I make, this is definitely in the top three for both flavor and utility. Not only does it make delicious Red Chicken Enchiladas, but it’s a perfect base for chili, and it adds a delightful piquancy to most Mexican or southwestern dishes.

Ingredient Tip

For a deeper flavor, toast the chiles after removing the stems and seeds. You can do this in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 30 seconds per side, or in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes, just until the chiles are fragrant. Then put them in the Instant Pot and proceed with step 2 of this recipe.

Recipe notes

Dulce de Leche

Make this versatile caramel at home with our slow-simmered method using milk and sugar—or take one of two sweetened condensed milk shortcuts.

Fufu

Fufu is a dish that has been passed down through many generations and is seen as a symbol of Ghanaian identity and heritage. Making fufu traditionally is a very laborious task; this recipe mimics some of that hard work but with a few home-cook hacks that make for a far easier time.

Not-So-Secret Burger Sauce

Every sauce needs a few secrets. Ours is smoky, sweet, and savory—use it for burgers, fries, tenders, and more.

Île Flottante

Originally called omelette à la neige (snow omelet) in reference to the fluffy snow-like appearance of the meringue, île flottante (floating island) has a lengthy history that dates back to the 17th century.

Charred Vegetable Ragù

This sauce is slightly magical. The texture cloaks pasta much like a traditional meat sauce does, and the flavors are deep and rich, but it’s actually vegan!

Black Sesame Tofu “Basque” Cheesecake

There are many things that appeal about a Basque cheesecake—it's crustless (one less job) and is meant to look “rustic” with its wrinkled and jagged sides.

Rouille

This piquant French sauce comes together in the blender in just five minutes.

Homemade Whipped Cream

Fluffier, fresher, and fancier than anything from a tub or can.