Mojo Rojo (Canary Islands Red Pepper & Paprika Sauce)

This mojo rojo recipe uses roasted red peppers, garlic, paprika, cumin and red wine vinegar for a smoky, tangy sauce. Blend the pepper mixture, then stream in olive oil until spoonable. This roasted-pepper version is a flavorful partner for papas arrugadas, roasted potatoes, grilled fish and vegetables.

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Mojo Rojo (Canary Islands Red Pepper & Paprika Sauce)

This mojo rojo recipe uses roasted red peppers, garlic, paprika, cumin and red wine vinegar for a smoky, tangy sauce. Blend the pepper mixture, then stream in olive oil until spoonable. This roasted-pepper version is a flavorful partner for papas arrugadas, roasted potatoes, grilled fish and vegetables.

TypeSauces

CuisineCanarian

Ingredients

Batch½×1×2×

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• 2 roasted red bell peppers, peeled and seeded (or 1 cup jarred roasted peppers, drained)
• 2–3 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (up to 3 Tbsp to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or hot paprika (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 small slice day-old bread (15–20 g), toasted (optional, for body)
• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Prep the BaseIf using bread, toast until dry and lightly golden.
2. BlendIn a blender/processor, add peppers, garlic, vinegar, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt, and toasted bread (if using). Blend to a smooth paste.
3. Emulsify & AdjustWith the motor running, stream in olive oil until glossy and spoonable. Taste and adjust vinegar, salt, and heat.

Allergen Notes

Optional bread contains wheat unless made with a suitable alternative. Check packaged pepper and spice labels.

Getting the texture right

Drain jarred peppers before blending. The optional toasted bread gives the sauce more body; leave it out for a lighter pepper sauce. Add the oil gradually so it blends evenly into the pepper mixture.

What to serve with mojo rojo

Spoon it over papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), roasted potatoes or charred vegetables. It also works alongside grilled fish and chicken, or as a spread in a sandwich.

Mojo rojo questions

Can I use jarred roasted peppers?

Yes. The recipe allows 1 cup of drained jarred roasted peppers in place of the two freshly roasted peppers.

How spicy is it?

The heat comes from cayenne or hot paprika. Start with less for a milder sauce and adjust after blending.

Does mojo rojo need bread?

No. Bread is optional here and is used to thicken the sauce. If avoiding gluten, omit it and check the labels on the remaining ingredients.

Explore more sauces

Browse our sauce recipes or build your skills with the free Basic Sauces Starter Guide.