If you’ve ever craved the rich, smoky, and deeply comforting flavor of Mexican cuisine, mastering this Enchilada Sauce Recipe will be a game changer in your kitchen. This homemade sauce brings together a harmonious blend of spices, tomato paste, and broth, delivering a vibrant red sauce that is both simple to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re drenching your enchiladas or spicing up other dishes, this sauce packs authentic flavor without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Enchilada Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a crucial role, from building the perfect roux that thickens the sauce to the spices that layer its signature warmth and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Helps create a smooth roux and carries the flavors of the spices beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for that perfect pourable consistency.
- 1/4 cup chili powder: The heart of the sauce, providing vibrant color and smoky, mild heat.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy depth that complements the chili powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts savory notes and aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the sauce with a subtle sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a hint of herbal brightness to the mix.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A surprising touch that adds warmth and subtle sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Deepens the red color and provides a tangy richness.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth: Creates the sauce’s base and controls thickness.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional): Adds a bright, tangy lift that rounds out the flavors.
How to Make Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Make the Roux
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about one minute. This crucial step forms a roux, which will thicken your sauce and ensure it’s silky, not lumpy.
Step 2: Toast the Spices
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and cinnamon. Cooking these spices for 30 seconds releases their aromas and builds the signature flavor depth of your enchilada sauce.
Step 3: Add Tomato Paste
Mix in the tomato paste, whisking until the mixture becomes smooth. Tomato paste injects vibrant color and a wonderfully rich, tangy base to the sauce, making it irresistibly appetizing.
Step 4: Incorporate the Broth
Gradually whisk in your broth—chicken or vegetable—to blend everything seamlessly. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering thickens the sauce and deepens the flavors.
Step 5: Brighten with Vinegar
Once thickened, stir in the optional apple cider vinegar to add brightness and balance the richness. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and your flexible Enchilada Sauce Recipe is ready to use.
How to Serve Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
This sauce shines topped with fresh garnishes like finely chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco. Each brings a pop of color and texture that enhances the eating experience.
Side Dishes
Serve your enchiladas smothered in this sauce alongside classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp cabbage slaw to balance the richness with fresh, crunchy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond enchiladas, use this sauce as a base for dipping crispy tortilla chips, drizzling over breakfast huevos rancheros, or even layering it into casseroles for an exciting flavor boost that will impress any crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to one week, making weeknight meals easier and full of flavor.
Freezing
This enchilada sauce freezes beautifully. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to use.
Reheating
Warm the sauce gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to maintain its smooth texture. You can add a splash of broth or water if it thickened too much while refrigerated or frozen.
FAQs
Can I make this enchilada sauce vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian or vegan-friendly enchilada sauce without sacrificing any flavor.
Is this Enchilada Sauce Recipe spicy?
The chili powder adds mild heat, but you can adjust the amount or choose a milder chili powder to tone down the spice to your preference.
Can I use this sauce for other Mexican dishes?
Yes! This sauce is incredibly versatile—use it in burritos, as a topping on tacos, or as a dipping sauce to add authentic Mexican flavor to many dishes.
What if I don’t have all the spices listed?
While the blend of spices creates the perfect balance, you can experiment with what you have—just keep the chili powder prominent for that classic enchilada flavor.
How thick should the sauce be?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable, perfect for smothering enchiladas without being runny or gluey.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making your own Enchilada Sauce Recipe at home. It takes just a few simple ingredients and a little love on the stovetop to create a sauce bursting with authentic Mexican flavor. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself reaching for this homemade goodness every time you crave comfort food with a little kick.
