Mexican Red Sauce - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans tomatoes (diced)
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 medium onion, chopped
1 cup water (set aside 1/2 cup)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic, crushed
2 tablespoons cilantro (leaves only, chopped fine)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 cup green pepper (diced)
1 medium jalapeno, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt, to taste

Preparation

Combine all ingredients, except for the 1/2 cup of water in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
Pour sauce into a medium sauce pan and add remaining 1/2 cup of water.
Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer and allow to cook through for about 20 minutes.
Note: Makes Aprox 2 quarts.