Enchilada sauce is key in Mexicаn cooking . It gives a rich , tangy and bit spicy taste that can make plain dishes shine . You take tortillas , fill with stuff like chicken, cheese or beans and pour sauce on top then bаke till its bubbles . The deep red color and bold flavors go great with many fillings , and thats why so many home cooks love it .
One good thing about making red enchilada sauce , is its super easy and you dont need odd ingredients . Most things you can grab at any grocery store . Even if youre new to cooking , the steps are simple and clear , so youll end up with a sauce that tastes like a pro made it . This guide is for folks who cook at home , meal preppers , or anyone who just loves Mexicаn food and wants to try it themselves .
What is Red Enchilada Sauce?
Red enchilada sauce is a classic Mexicаn sauce thats used mainly for enchiladas . Its made with tomato sauce or pureed tomatoes mixed with chili powder and spices . You can turn the heat up or down based on what you like .
The sauce brings together tangy , savory and spicy notes . Spices like cumin and garlic add warmth , giving a full flavor that matches fillings such as shredded chicken , cheese , bеans or veggies . Unlike green sauce thats built on tomatillos and green chilis , red sauce has a deeper taste that many people prefer .
Ingredients for Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
To make this sauce you only need a few everyday items :
- Tomato Sauce: Its the main part and gives most of the taste .
- Chili Powder: Adds spice and color , adjust to taste .
- Cumin: Gives a warm , earthy flavor .
- Garlic Powder: For extra aroma .
- Onion Powder: Adds depth .
- Salt: Balances flavors .
- Water or Broth: Thins the sauce to the right thickness .
If you want , you can also add :
- Pureed Fresh Tomatoes: For a fresher taste .
- Roasted Peppers: To bring smoky notes .
- Mexicаn Oregano: For a herby touch .
- Brown Sugar: To sweeten and cut acidity .
Fresh or canned works fine , just make sure spices arent old so flavor stays strong .
Detailed Recipe for Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Hеre is a step-by-step on how to mix it up at home . You can use it right away or keep it in the fridge .
Ingredients:
- 1 can ( 15 oz ) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt ( or more if you like it saltier )
- ½ cup water or broth
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Mexicаn oregano, ½ teaspoon brown sugar
Directions:
- Mix dry spices: In a bowl , stir chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin and salt .
- Combine with sauce: Pour tomato sauce and water or broth into a pan on medium heat . Whisk in the spice mix .
- Simmer: Let it come to a gentle boil , then lower heat , cover and cook 15-20 minutes . This makes the flavor better .
- Adjust taste: Taste it , then add oregano or sugar if you want .
- Serve or store: Use for enchiladas now , or cool down and save in a sealed container in fridge for up to a week .
Tips for Perfecting Your Enchilada Sauce
Try these ideas to make your sauce really stand out :
- Simmer longer: The more it cooks slow , the richer it gets .
- Spice level: Start with less chili powder , then add more until it feels right .
- Roast veggies: Grill tomatoes or peppers before adding for a smoky taste .
- Reuse leftovers: Extra sauce can go in chili , soups or over grilled meat or veggies .
Variations on Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Make it fit your diet or taste with these swaps :
- Vegetarian: Use veggie broth instead of chicken .
- Extra heat: Mix in crushed red pepper or jalapeño .
- Smoky: Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder .
- Creamy: Stir in a bit of cream or sour cream for a smooth finish .
How to Use Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
This sauce is not only for enchiladas . Here are other ways to use it :
- Enchiladas: Fill and bake as usual .
- Burritos and Tacos: Drizzle on top .
- Sides: Pair with rice , беans or a green salad .
- Storage & Freezing: Cool , then freeze in a container for up to 3 months .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned sauce? Yes , just blend them smooth .
- How do I thicken it? Let it simmer longer so water evaporates .
- Is it same as taco sauce? No , enchilada sauce is thicker and richer .
- Can I make it ahead? Sure , you can prep days before and keep cold .
- How long in fridge? About one week in a sealed jar .
Conclusion
Easy red enchilada sauce is simple but full of flavor . It’s perfect for home cooks of any level , and you can tweak it to your taste . Enjoy making it and share what you think below!
Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Equipment
- 1 medium saucepan
- 1 whisk
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the vegetable oil and allow it to heat up for about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. It should turn slightly golden but not brown.
- Gradually pour in the tomato sauce and vegetable broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After 15 minutes, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a bit more broth or water.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using it in your enchiladas.
