Step 1 Wash the California, ancho and chiles de arbol in a saucepan and add the water. Partially cover the pan and boil the chiles about 8 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and let the chiles stand 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2 Remove as many chile stems as possible. Place the chiles and liquid in a blender, add the garlic and blend at medium speed 2 to 3 minutes. The sauce should be very smooth and have an almost watery texture. Add salt to taste.
Step 3Heat the oil in a clean saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the sauce and boil about 10 minutes. Keep the sauce warm.