Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Does the idea of crafting a delectable homemade enchilada sauce resonate with you? This recipe is all about bringing authentic Mexican flavors to your kitchen effortlessly. If enchiladas are a staple in your culinary repertoire, this sauce will elevate your dishes to new heights. Packed with rich aromas and vibrant tastes, it’s a game-changer that will have you coming back for more.
Every Saturday, my family gathers around the kitchen, and this sauce has become a beloved tradition. My grandmother passed this recipe down to me, often emphasizing the importance of letting the spices infuse slowly for maximum flavor. There’s something magical about watching simple ingredients transform into a staple dish that warms our hearts and fills our home with inviting aromas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a breeze to make, requiring minimal ingredients yet delivering maximum flavor. Its flexibility allows you to tweak spices to suit your palette, making it perfect for personal customization. Plus, it’s a much healthier alternative to store-bought sauces, free from unnecessary preservatives and additives. With just one pot and a handful of ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up this delicious sauce in no time.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this sauce lies in its simplicity. Start with a can of tomato puree for the base; its richness is unmatched. For the heat, fresh chili powder is essential, but you can adjust to your preferred level of spice. Cumin and garlic powder add depth, while a touch of oregano provides that authentic Mexican flair. A good vegetable broth will serve as the perfect canvas to blend all these flavors together.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by heating a tablespoon of oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add in the chili powder and sauté for about 30 seconds until it releases its aroma.
Step 2
Add the garlic powder, cumin, and oregano. Stir for another 30 seconds to toast the spices, which deepens their flavors significantly.
Step 3
Pour in the tomato puree and vegetable broth, whisking continuously to incorporate the spices evenly. Ensure no lumps remain in the mixture.
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Step 4
Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to bubble gently and thicken. This should take around 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5
Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A pinch of salt or a dash of lime juice can amplify the flavors.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Variations & Substitutions
If you’re catering to dietary restrictions or just want to mix things up, there are plenty of options! Replace tomato puree with roasted red peppers for a sweeter, smokier sauce. For a gluten-free version, ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free. A dash of smoked paprika can add a different dimension to the flavor profile if you’re feeling adventurous.
Serving Suggestions
This enchilada sauce is incredibly versatile. Drizzle over classic chicken enchiladas or use it as a base for vegetarian renditions with beans and cheese. Serve it on side dishes like rice or even as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips. It’s ideal for cozy family dinners or larger gatherings where everyone can customize their dish to their liking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce in advance? Absolutely! This sauce not only keeps well in the fridge for weeks but also freezes beautifully. Making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld even more, resulting in a richer, tastier sauce when you’re ready to use it.
What can I use if I don’t have tomato puree? If you’re out of tomato puree, you can blend canned tomatoes until smooth as a perfect substitute. For a thicker sauce, use tomato paste and adjust with water until you reach the desired consistency.
How do you adjust the spice level? You can tone down the heat by reducing the amount of chili powder or substituting a milder chili variety. If you’re looking to spice it up, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the mix.
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Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour for thickening
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 0.25 tsp ground black pepper or to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together over the heat for one minute.
- Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a slight boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
