Enchilada Sauce

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own sauces from scratch, and Enchilada Sauce is no exception. I remember the first time I tasted homemade enchiladas; the sauce was rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy. It turned an ordinary meal into a feast! Now, whenever I crave that comforting dish, I whip up a batch of this sauce and let the aroma fill my kitchen. It’s become a staple in our home, thanks to its depth of flavor and simplicity. Plus, knowing I made it myself gives me that extra pinch of pride.

Ingredients Required for Enchilada Sauce

When it comes to creating the perfect Enchilada Sauce, the quality of your ingredients matters. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that rich and hearty flavor that enchiladas are known for. From the aromatic spices to the essential broth, these ingredients work in harmony to bring your sauce to life.

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: A neutral oil that helps in sautéing and developing flavor.
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This ingredient is essential for thickening the sauce and creating a roux.
• 3 tablespoons chili powder: A key ingredient that gives the sauce its signature flavor and heat.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and a savory element to the sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon oregano: Brings a touch of earthiness to balance the spices.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon cumin: Offers a warm, slightly nutty flavor that complements the chili.
• 2 cups chicken broth: The base for the sauce, providing moisture and flavor.

How to Prepare Enchilada Sauce

Preparing Enchilada Sauce is a straightforward process that anyone can master. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a rich, flavorful sauce ready to elevate your dishes. Let’s get into the delicious details!

1. Start by adding vegetable oil to a pot and heating it over medium heat. Make sure the oil gets hot, but be careful not to let it smoke.
2. Once the oil is hot, add in the all-purpose flour. Stir constantly for about one to two minutes to create a roux. You want it to turn a light golden color, which helps to develop the flavor.
3. Next, add in the chili powder, garlic powder, salt, cumin, and oregano. Stir this mixture well until it starts to clump together. The spices should become fragrant!
4. Now, pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to combine everything. Make sure there are no lumps from the roux. The mixture should be smooth and cohesive.
5. Continue to heat the sauce, bringing it to a gentle simmer. As it heats, the sauce will start to thicken. You want it to coat the back of a spoon nicely.
6. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a nice, thick consistency.
7. Once thickened, remove the sauce from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices according to your preference.
8. Lastly, let the sauce cool slightly before using or transferring it to a jar. You can store it in the fridge for up to a week!

Ways to Customize

Customizing your Enchilada Sauce can be a fun way to experiment with flavors! Here are some ideas to add your personal touch:

• Heat Levels: Adjust the spiciness by using more or less chili powder or even adding some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end of cooking for a fresh flavor boost.
• Veggie Variations: For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip any meat-based fillings.
• Smokiness: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to give your sauce a nice smoky flavor that pairs well with enchiladas.
• Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add a bit more flour when making the roux.
• Sweetness: For a hint of sweetness, add a splash of honey or a pinch of brown sugar to balance out the spice.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and it can last up to one week!

Great Combinations for Enchilada Sauce

If you’re wondering what to serve with your delicious Enchilada Sauce, the options are plentiful. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Classic Enchiladas: Use the sauce generously over corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or veggies for a traditional meal.
• Tacos: Drizzle this sauce over tacos filled with your favorite ingredients for an extra flavor boost.
• Burritos: Use it as a topping for burritos, adding a layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Quesadillas: Serve alongside quesadillas for dipping or spoon over the top for added flavor.
• Rice Dishes: This sauce pairs well with Mexican-style rice dishes, adding a savory depth.
• Nachos: Drizzle it over tortilla chips and cheese for a delightful appetizer or snack.
• Seasonal Pairings: This sauce is perfect year-round! Whether it’s summer tacos or winter enchiladas, it fits every season.

FAQ

Conclusion

This homemade Enchilada Sauce is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its rich flavor and versatility make it a go-to for many meals, from traditional enchiladas to creative burrito bowls. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of making something from scratch that elevates your dishes. You won’t regret adding this sauce to your repertoire!

Enchilada Sauce

The ultimate comfort food, this rich and flavorful Enchilada Sauce is a must-have for easy weeknight dinners. With its perfect balance of spices, it's sure to elevate any dish. Why not make it tonight?

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 1 jar

Calories 90 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
• 4 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
• 3 tablespoons Chili Powder (we prefer Gebhardt’s)
• ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• ¼ teaspoon Oregano
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• ½ teaspoon Cumin
• 2 cups Chicken Broth

Instructions

 

• Add Vegetable Oil to a pot and heat on medium heat.
• Pour in All-Purpose Flour and create a roux by whisking them together for 1 to 2 minutes.
• Add Chili Powder, Garlic Powder, Salt, Cumin, and Oregano and mix until clumpy.
• Pour in Chicken Broth, whisking the entire time until there are no more clumps.
• Heat for about 15 minutes or until the sauce is thickened.
• The sauce is thick enough when it coats the back of a wooden spoon well.

Notes

• Tip 1: Use fresh spices for better flavor.
• Tip 2: Adjust the heat level by varying the chili powder.
• Tip 3: Store in a glass jar for freshness.
• Tip 4: Let it simmer longer for a richer flavor.
• Tip 5: Use it over various dishes like tacos and burritos.

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