- 9 dried ancho chiles (scant 4 ounces), stemmed, seeded, torn into pieces
- 6 dried guajillo chiles (1 ounce), stemmed, seeded, torn into pieces
- 5 cups very hot water
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
- Heat heavy large skillet over medium-high heat 2 minutes. Add all chile pieces; cook just until chiles blister, pressing with metal spatula and turning occasionally, about 30 seconds. Transfer chiles to bowl; add 5 cups very hot water. Soak chiles until very tender, pushing occasionally to submerge, about 30 minutes.
- Working in 3 batches, puree chiles with soaking liquid and all remaining ingredients in blender until smooth. Season sauce with more salt, if desired. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)