Step #1 I use a molcajete for this, a mixer can be substituted, not quite the same, but nevertheless it can be done.
Step #2 If you using a molcajete, first grind the chile,garlic,cumin, and onion if used.
Step #3 The object being, to make a paste, a bit like a thai paste at this point Add the tomato & grind to a paste or (sauce?) depends on the tomatos you use.
Step #4 (at times I add a little water, if it too thick) add salt & cilantro to taste.
Step #5 I eat this with anything I can scoop it up with.
Step #6 corn tortillas deep fried until crisp, corn chips, flour tortilla torn, & made into handy little scoops, potato chips.
Step #7 It doesn't matter as long as I can get it to the old face hole.
Step #8 Very tasty on a taco or over an egg in the morning.
Step #9 Wake you up it will.
Step #10 This is best when fresh, don't keep it over a day in the frig.