Enchilada Sauce Recipe

Enchilada sauce is a rich, flavorful staple in Mexican cuisine, perfect for enhancing enchiladas, burritos, tacos, and even soups. This homemade version comes together quickly and is packed with a robust combination of spices, creating a sauce that’s far superior to store-bought varieties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Requires just a few pantry staples and minimal effort.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
• Versatile: Works well with various dishes beyond enchiladas.
• No Preservatives: A wholesome alternative to store-bought versions.
• Budget-Friendly: Homemade sauce is more cost-effective than pre-made options.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Tomato paste
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Olive oil
• All-purpose flour
• Chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Directions

1. Prepare the Roux: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Add Spices: Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
3. Incorporate Liquid: Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and tomato paste until smooth.
4. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Add salt and cayenne pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 2 cups of sauce, enough for 6-8 enchiladas.
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
• Mild Option: Reduce the chili powder and omit the cayenne for a less spicy sauce.
• Tomato-Free: Substitute the tomato paste with a blend of roasted red peppers for a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.
• Vegan: Use vegetable broth to keep the recipe plant-based.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

2. Is enchilada sauce spicy?

The spice level depends on the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper used. You can adjust it to your preference.

3. Can I use this sauce for other recipes?

Absolutely! It’s great for casseroles, soups, and as a dip for tortilla chips.

4. How do I thicken enchilada sauce?

The flour in the recipe acts as a thickening agent, but you can cook it longer to further reduce and thicken the sauce.

5. Can I substitute tomato paste?

Yes, you can use tomato sauce or puree, though the flavor and thickness may vary slightly.

6. What’s the difference between red and green enchilada sauce?

Red sauce is made with red chili powder or tomatoes, while green sauce uses tomatillos and green chiles.

7. Can I make this sauce oil-free?

You can skip the oil by mixing the flour and spices with a small amount of broth to create a paste before adding the remaining liquid.

8. Is this sauce gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use a gluten-free flour substitute to make it gluten-free.

9. How do I store leftover sauce?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.

10. What can I use instead of chili powder?

You can use a blend of paprika, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder as a substitute.

Conclusion

This homemade enchilada sauce is a simple, delicious addition to your kitchen repertoire. It’s bursting with bold flavors and can be tailored to fit any dietary preference or spice level. Whether you’re making enchiladas, burritos, or experimenting with other recipes, this sauce will elevate your dishes to a new level.

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