Red Enchilada Sauce

This easy red enchilada sauce is a game changer for your meals. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this flavorful sauce in only 15 minutes. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas, this homemade version far surpasses anything from the store. Get ready to elevate your cooking with a versatile sauce that adds a punch of flavor to any dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This sauce takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices creates a rich and bold flavor that enhances any Mexican dish.
• Versatile Use: Not just for enchiladas, use it in tacos, nachos, or even as a dipping sauce!
• Cost-Effective: Making your own sauce saves money compared to store-bought alternatives.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice levels according to your taste by adding more chili powder or other seasonings.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smooth and effortless. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make this red enchilada sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Whisk
• Medium bowl
• Medium pot
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Whisk: Ideal for blending ingredients smoothly without lumps.
• Medium bowl: Provides ample space for mixing dry ingredients before combining them with liquids.
• Medium pot: Perfect size for cooking sauces while ensuring even heat distribution.

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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 the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 2: Cook the Mixture

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

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste

Whisk in the tomato paste and continue whisking for another minute to blend well.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

Slowly add the chicken broth while whisking until the mixture is smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes or until it thickens enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon.

With this easy red enchilada sauce recipe, you’ll be ready to create delicious dishes that everyone will love! Enjoy!

How to Serve Red Enchilada Sauce

Red enchilada sauce is a versatile condiment that enhances many dishes. You can serve it in various ways for a delightful meal experience.

Pour Over Enchiladas

• Pour the red enchilada sauce generously over filled tortillas, topped with cheese, and bake until bubbly for classic enchiladas.

Drizzle on Tacos

• Use the sauce as a zesty drizzle over tacos to add a rich, spicy flavor that complements meats and vegetables alike.

Serve with Quesadillas

• Serve warm red enchilada sauce alongside quesadillas for dipping. It adds moisture and spice to this cheesy treat.

Use in Burritos

• Spread red enchilada sauce inside burritos before rolling them up. This keeps the filling moist and flavorful.

Add to Rice Dishes

• Mix red enchilada sauce into rice dishes for an added kick. It makes simple rice more interesting and flavorful.

How to Perfect Red Enchilada Sauce

Creating the perfect red enchilada sauce takes just a few adjustments. Here are some tips to elevate your homemade version.

• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, add additional chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spices and high-quality chicken broth to enhance the depth of flavor in your sauce.
• Let it Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer longer than recommended for richer flavors. Just be sure to keep an eye on its thickness.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding diced tomatoes or chopped onions for extra texture and flavor complexity in your sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Red Enchilada Sauce

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

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with spices that complement the flavors of the enchilada sauce beautifully.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans seasoned with garlic and spices offer a hearty side that balances out spiciness.
3. Guacamole: A cool, creamy avocado dip that provides a refreshing contrast to the heat of the enchiladas.
4. Corn Salad: A vibrant salad made with fresh corn, tomatoes, and lime juice adds sweetness and crunch.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for an excellent appetizer before enjoying your main course.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender offer a smoky flavor that pairs well with enchiladas.
7. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw dressed lightly can cut through the richness of the sauce while offering a refreshing bite.
8. Cheesy Mexican Cornbread: A warm, cheesy bread that is perfect for soaking up any leftover red enchilada sauce on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making red enchilada sauce is straightforward, but a few common mistakes can compromise the flavor and texture.

• Using too much flour: Adding excessive flour can make the sauce too thick and pasty. Stick to the recommended amount for a smooth consistency.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Each ingredient can vary in strength, so taste your sauce before serving. Adjust chili powder or salt to suit your preference.
• Neglecting to whisk continuously: Failing to whisk while adding the broth can lead to lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce is fully combined and smooth.
• Skipping the simmer time: Rushing through cooking means flavors won’t develop. Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 5 minutes for optimal taste.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth significantly impacts flavor. Always use a good-quality chicken broth for richer results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 1 week.

Freezing Red Enchilada Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Enchilada Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-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 spicy?

You can add more chili powder or include cayenne pepper for extra heat. Start small and taste as you go!

Can I make this red enchilada sauce vegan?

Yes! Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. All other ingredients are plant-based.

How long does homemade red enchilada sauce last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

What dishes can I use red enchilada sauce with?

This versatile sauce works great with enchiladas, tacos, burritos, or as a topping for grilled chicken or vegetables.

Final Thoughts

This easy red enchilada sauce recipe is not only quick but also full of flavor, making it a perfect addition to many dishes. Feel free to customize it by adding spices or adjusting acidity levels with vinegar or lime juice. Try making it today!