Red Enchilada Sauce

This easy Red Enchilada Sauce is perfect for those who want to elevate their meals without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can whip up this flavorful sauce in only 15 minutes! It’s ideal for taco nights, enchiladas, or even as a zesty dip. Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade sauce offers a fresh taste that makes every meal special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can prepare this sauce in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: Packed with spices, this sauce delivers a rich and vibrant flavor that enhances any dish.
• Versatile Use: Great not only for enchiladas but also for tacos, burritos, and even as a dipping sauce.
• Healthy Ingredients: With no preservatives or artificial flavors, you know exactly what’s in your food.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste by adding more chili powder or other spices.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key tools that will help you create the perfect Red Enchilada Sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Whisk
• Medium bowl
• Medium pot
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Whisk: Essential for blending ingredients smoothly and preventing lumps in your sauce.
• Medium Bowl: Useful for mixing dry ingredients before cooking.
• Medium Pot: Ideal for heating the sauce evenly without burning.

Ingredients

This easy red enchilada sauce is simple to make homemade in only 15 minutes with pantry ingredients. It tastes so much better than anything store-bought!

For the Sauce

• 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons chili powder (plus more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt (to taste)
• 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken broth

How to Make Red Enchilada Sauce

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and salt until well blended.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

1. In a medium pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat for about one minute.
2. Sprinkle the flour mixture over the oil while whisking constantly until fully combined.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste

1. Whisk in the tomato paste into the mixture and continue whisking for another minute.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

1. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking until the sauce is smooth.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about five minutes or until thick enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon.

Now you have an easy homemade Red Enchilada Sauce ready to spice up your dishes! Enjoy!

How to Serve Red Enchilada Sauce

Red enchilada sauce is versatile and enhances various dishes with its rich flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious sauce.

Tacos

• Use red enchilada sauce as a topping for tacos filled with chicken, beef, or vegetables. It adds a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with fresh toppings like cilantro and avocado.

Burritos

• Drizzle the sauce over burritos before baking for an added layer of flavor. The heat will meld the ingredients together, creating a comforting meal.

Nachos

• Pour red enchilada sauce over tortilla chips and top with cheese, jalapeños, and olives. Bake until crispy for a delicious snack or appetizer.

Enchiladas

• Spread the sauce generously over rolled tortillas filled with your choice of meat or beans. Top with cheese and bake for a classic Mexican dish that everyone will love.

Quesadillas

• Use red enchilada sauce as a dipping sauce for cheesy quesadillas. It brings extra flavor to every bite, making your meal even more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Red Enchilada Sauce

Creating the perfect red enchilada sauce is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your homemade version.

• Adjust spiciness: Modify the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference. Start small and add more until you reach your desired level.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavor profile of your enchilada sauce. If possible, use whole spices and grind them just before adding them to the mixture.
• Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten up the sauce. Try incorporating them during the cooking process for an aromatic twist.
• Add depth with broth: For an even richer taste, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. It enhances the overall flavor of your red enchilada sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Red Enchilada Sauce

Pairing side dishes with red enchilada sauce can make your meal complete. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice
   A flavorful blend of rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices that complements the richness of the enchilada sauce.
2. Refried Beans
   Creamy refried beans offer a hearty side that balances out spicy dishes beautifully.
3. Guacamole
   Creamy avocado dip that adds richness and freshness to each bite when served alongside enchiladas or tacos.
4. Corn Salad
   A refreshing mix of corn, tomatoes, onions, and lime juice provides a bright contrast to the bold flavors in red enchilada sauce.
5. Chips and Salsa
   Crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa make for a delicious starter or snack option that everyone loves.
6. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender bring a smoky sweetness that enhances any Mexican-inspired meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making red enchilada sauce can be easy, but small errors can affect flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the spices – Not using enough chili powder or cumin can lead to a bland sauce. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning.
• Using cold broth – Adding cold chicken broth can cause clumping. Always use room temperature or warm broth to ensure a smooth blend.
• Not whisking enough – Failing to whisk constantly can result in lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce is thick and smooth.
• Overcooking the sauce – Cooking for too long can burn the sauce. Watch closely and remove it from heat once it coats the back of a spoon.
• Ignoring storage tips – Improper storage can spoil the sauce quickly. Follow proper refrigeration and freezing methods for longevity.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to one week.

Freezing Red Enchilada Sauce

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The sauce can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Red Enchilada Sauce

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered, for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making red enchilada sauce:

How do I make Red Enchilada Sauce spicier?

You can add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños for extra heat. Taste as you add to achieve your desired spice level.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, using vegetable broth will work perfectly, especially if you’re looking for a vegetarian option without sacrificing flavor.

How long does homemade Red Enchilada Sauce last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to one week. In the freezer, it can last up to three months.

Can I make this Red Enchilada Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to use it.

What dishes can I use Red Enchilada Sauce with?

This versatile sauce pairs well with enchiladas, burritos, tacos, or as a topping on nachos.

Final Thoughts

This homemade red enchilada sauce is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. It enhances any Mexican dish while allowing room for customization based on your taste preferences. Try adding different spices or adjusting the heat level to make it uniquely yours!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Red Enchilada Sauce

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: About 2 cups (8 servings) 1x

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Description

Elevate your meals with this quick and easy homemade Red Enchilada Sauce, ready in just 15 minutes! This vibrant sauce is the perfect blend of spices and flavors that can transform any dish, whether it’s used for enchiladas, tacos, or as a zesty dip. Unlike store-bought options, this sauce is free from preservatives and artificial ingredients, allowing you to enjoy a fresh taste made from pantry staples. It’s customizable too—adjust the spice level to suit your palate. Let’s get cooking!

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Ingredients

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• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken broth

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and salt until combined.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a medium pot over medium heat for about one minute.
3. Sprinkle the flour mixture into the pot while whisking constantly until fully blended.
4. Whisk in tomato paste for one minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about five minutes or until thickened.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 258mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg