Enchilada Sauce

Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Enchilada sauce is a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for its rich, smoky flavor and vibrant color. Making it from scratch allows you to customize the heat and depth of flavor to your liking. This recipe is simple yet delivers a sauce that will transform your enchiladas into a true culinary delight, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes about 2 cups of enchilada sauce, which is enough for 8-10 enchiladas. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 cup) contains approximately 50 calories, 3g fat, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g protein. This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, and paprika; stir to combine.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce and vegetable broth, mixing well.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
7. Add apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper.
8. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Use an immersion blender to smooth the sauce, if desired.
10. Remove from heat and let cool before using or storing.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. For a smokier taste, consider using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

Serving and Pairings

This enchilada sauce pairs perfectly with cheese and chicken enchiladas, but can also be drizzled over tacos, burritos, or used as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover enchilada sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in a microwave until heated through.

Cooking Mistakes

• Using too much chili powder can overpower the sauce.
• Not cooking the onions and garlic long enough can lead to a raw flavor.
• Forgetting to season the sauce with salt can result in blandness.
• Overcooking can make the sauce too thick; add water if necessary.
• Skipping the vinegar can reduce the sauce’s acidity and brightness.

Helpful Tips

• Adjust the spice level to your preference by varying the chili powder.
• For a creamier sauce, stir in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
• Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning.
• Double the recipe for meal prep; it freezes well.

FAQs

Can I make enchilada sauce ahead of time?

Yes, enchilada sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for longer storage. Just reheat before use.

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

Red enchilada sauce is typically made with red chilies and tomato sauce, while green sauce uses tomatillos and green chilies, giving it a fresh, tangy flavor.

How can I make enchilada sauce spicier?

To increase the heat, add more chili powder, or incorporate fresh jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.

Is enchilada sauce gluten-free?

Most enchilada sauces are gluten-free, but always check ingredient labels to ensure no gluten-containing additives are included.

Can I use canned sauce instead of homemade?

Yes, you can use canned enchilada sauce in a pinch, but homemade offers superior flavor and freshness.

Conclusion

Making your own enchilada sauce is a simple and rewarding process that enhances any Mexican dish. With this recipe, you can achieve a rich, flavorful sauce that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and serving it in various dishes!

Enchilada Sauce

A rich and flavorful enchilada sauce that enhances any Mexican dish, easy to make from scratch.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Sauce

Cuisine: Mexican

Keyword: enchilada sauce, Mexican cuisine, homemade sauce, spicy sauce

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 2 cups

Calories: 50kcal

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
• Add chili powder, cumin, and paprika; stir to combine.
• Pour in the tomato sauce and vegetable broth, mixing well.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
• Add apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper.
• Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Use an immersion blender to smooth the sauce, if desired.
• Remove from heat and let cool before using or storing.

Nutrition

Calories: 50kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Fiber: 1g