Red Enchilada Sauce

This Red Enchilada Sauce is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their Mexican dishes. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this flavorful sauce in only 15 minutes. Perfect for enchiladas, tacos, or even as a dipping sauce, this recipe is not only quick but also far superior to store-bought versions. Its rich flavor and vibrant color will impress your family and friends during any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of cooking time, you can have homemade enchilada sauce ready in no time.
• Flavorful: The blend of spices creates a rich and tangy flavor that enhances any dish it’s paired with.
• Versatile Use: Great for enchiladas, burritos, tacos, or as a zesty dip for chips.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste; add more chili powder for heat or extra herbs for depth.
• Pantry Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Medium pot
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium bowl: Essential for mixing dry ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the pot.
• Whisk: Helps combine all ingredients smoothly without lumps, ensuring a creamy sauce.
• Medium pot: Ideal for heating the oil and combining all elements to create the sauce effectively.

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: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

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

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 hot oil while whisking constantly until it’s combined.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste

1. Whisk in the tomato paste into the pot and continue whisking for an additional minute.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

1. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
2. Bring the sauce 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 your delicious homemade Red Enchilada Sauce ready to complement any meal! Enjoy it on enchiladas or as a zesty addition to your favorite dishes.

How to Serve Red Enchilada Sauce

Red enchilada sauce is a versatile condiment that can elevate many dishes. Here are some delicious ways to serve and use your homemade red enchilada sauce.

Tacos

• Use red enchilada sauce as a flavorful topping for tacos filled with chicken, beef, or vegetables. It adds a rich taste that complements any filling.

Burritos

• Drizzle red enchilada sauce over burritos before serving. This enhances both flavor and presentation, making your meal more enticing.

Enchiladas

• Naturally, pour red enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas stuffed with your choice of meat or beans. Bake until bubbly for a classic dish.

Nachos

• Top nachos with shredded cheese, beans, and a generous splash of red enchilada sauce. Bake until the cheese melts and enjoy a hearty snack.

Quesadillas

• Brush red enchilada sauce on the inside of the tortillas before adding cheese and other fillings. Grill for a tasty quesadilla with an extra kick.

Omelets

• Incorporate red enchilada sauce into your morning omelets for a spicy twist. It pairs wonderfully with eggs and any fillings you choose.

How to Perfect Red Enchilada Sauce

Creating the ideal red enchilada sauce requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use fresh spices: Opt for fresh chili powder and cumin for a more vibrant flavor profile.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Taste as you go: Always taste the sauce during cooking and adjust seasoning according to your preference.
• Experiment with heat: Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like your sauce spicier.
• Add acidity: A splash of lime juice or vinegar can brighten the flavors in your red enchilada sauce.
• Store properly: Keep leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze it for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Red Enchilada Sauce

Pairing side dishes with red enchilada sauce can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice
   A fluffy side dish that complements the flavors of red enchilada sauce perfectly.

2. Refried Beans
   Creamy refried beans provide protein and balance out the spice from the enchiladas.

3. Guacamole
   Fresh guacamole adds creaminess and coolness, making it an ideal accompaniment to spicy dishes.

4. Chips and Salsa
   Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa offer a delightful texture contrast alongside your main meal.

5. Corn Salad
   A refreshing corn salad mixed with lime juice and cilantro brings brightness to the table.

6. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and nutrition while pairing well with the rich flavors of the sauce.

7. Black Bean Salad
   A hearty salad featuring black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado provides additional protein and fiber.

8. Slaw
   A zesty slaw made from cabbage and lime juice can add crunch and balance out richer dishes like those featuring red enchilada sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making red enchilada sauce can be easy, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring spice levels – Not adjusting the chili powder can lead to a sauce that is too spicy or too bland. Always taste and modify as needed.
• Using cold broth – Adding cold chicken broth can affect the sauce’s consistency. Warm it up slightly before adding to ensure a smooth mixture.
• Skipping the whisking – Failing to whisk consistently while cooking can cause lumps. Whisk continuously for a silky texture.
• Overcooking the sauce – Cooking for too long can make the sauce too thick. Keep an eye on it and remove from heat once it coats the back of a spoon.
• Not letting it simmer – Skipping the simmering step can result in a raw flour taste. Allow it to simmer gently for full flavor development.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing Red Enchilada Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Red Enchilada Sauce

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making red enchilada sauce:

How can I make my Red Enchilada Sauce spicier?

You can add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños for extra heat. Start with small amounts and adjust according to your preference.

Can I use fresh herbs in my red enchilada sauce?

Yes! Fresh cilantro or parsley can enhance flavor. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best results.

What dishes pair well with Red Enchilada Sauce?

It pairs beautifully with enchiladas, tacos, burritos, or as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips.

Can I make this Red Enchilada Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later use.

Final Thoughts

This red enchilada sauce is not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile enough to elevate many dishes. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or herbs. Give this homemade recipe a try; you’ll love how much better it tastes than store-bought!