Red Enchilada Sauce

This Red Enchilada Sauce is a delightful and easy recipe that transforms your meals with its rich, homemade flavor. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas, this sauce can elevate any dish in just 15 minutes. It’s made from simple pantry ingredients, offering a fresh taste that outshines store-bought options. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this sauce is versatile and sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Homemade Flavor: Enjoy the fresh taste of homemade sauce that beats store-bought every time.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to make it as spicy or mild as you prefer.
• Versatile Use: Use this sauce for enchiladas, burritos, tacos, or even as a dipping sauce.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome components, this sauce fits well into various diets.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect red enchilada sauce, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Whisk
• Medium bowl
• Medium pot
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly for a lump-free sauce.
• Medium pot: Provides enough space to cook the sauce evenly without splatters.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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!

Basic Ingredients

• 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 Spice Mixture

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

Step 2: Cook the Base

In a medium pot over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil for about 1 minute. Sprinkle the flour mixture over the hot oil and whisk constantly until fully combined. Then add in the tomato paste and continue whisking for an additional minute.

Step 3: Add Chicken Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to ensure a smooth consistency. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes or until thickened enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon.

With these steps complete, your homemade Red Enchilada Sauce is ready to enhance your favorite dishes! Enjoy!

How to Serve Red Enchilada Sauce

Red enchilada sauce is a versatile condiment that enhances many dishes beyond traditional enchiladas. Its rich flavor can elevate your meals and bring a delightful kick to various recipes.

With Tacos

• Use red enchilada sauce as a topping for tacos, adding depth and spice to your favorite fillings.

Over Burritos

• Drizzle the sauce over burritos for an extra layer of flavor. It complements beans, rice, and cheese perfectly.

As a Dipping Sauce

• Serve warm red enchilada sauce alongside tortilla chips as a zesty dip that will impress your guests.

In Casseroles

• Incorporate the sauce into casseroles for a flavorful base. It works well with chicken, vegetables, or even quinoa.

With Eggs

• Pour red enchilada sauce over scrambled or fried eggs for a hearty breakfast that packs a punch.

In Soups

• Add the sauce to soups for added richness. It pairs well with chicken broth and vegetables for a comforting meal.

How to Perfect Red Enchilada Sauce

Making the perfect red enchilada sauce is all about balancing flavors and achieving the right consistency. Here are some tips to help you master this delicious recipe.

• Adjust the Spice Level: Customize your sauce by varying the amount of chili powder. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For optimal taste, use fresh herbs and spices when possible. They add vibrancy to your sauce.

• Simmer Longer: If you have time, allow the sauce to simmer longer than 5 minutes. This enhances the flavors even further.

• Experiment with Broths: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different depth of flavor while keeping it savory.

• Store Properly: Keep leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to one week and is great for quick meals.

• Freeze for Later: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze portions. This way, you always have red enchilada sauce ready when needed.

Best Side Dishes for Red Enchilada Sauce

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

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes a perfect companion to soak up all that delicious sauce.

2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and texture, complementing the richness of enchiladas or tacos.

3. Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds freshness and balances the spiciness of red enchilada sauce beautifully.

4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch that contrasts nicely with savory dishes.

5. Chips and Salsa: A classic snack that pairs perfectly; crispy tortilla chips dipped in fresh salsa make an irresistible combination.

6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing bite alongside spicy dishes, enhancing overall flavor profiles.

7. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition while complementing the sauce’s richness.

8. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas are easy to prepare and offer gooey goodness that pairs excellently with red enchilada sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making red enchilada sauce can be easy, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Whisking: Not whisking the flour mixture in the oil can create lumps. Always whisk constantly for a smooth sauce.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: Don’t rush simmering the sauce. Allow it to cook until it thickens properly; this enhances flavor and texture.
• Ignoring Taste Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in bland sauce. Always taste as you go and add more spices if needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality broth or spices will affect flavor. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Not Storing Properly: Improper storage can spoil your sauce. Make sure to use airtight containers for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Red Enchilada Sauce

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Enchilada Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making red enchilada sauce:

How do I know when my Red Enchilada Sauce is thick enough?

The sauce should coat the back of a wooden spoon when it’s thick enough. If it runs off too easily, let it simmer longer.

Can I make Red Enchilada Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use.

What can I add to customize my Red Enchilada Sauce?

You can add diced tomatoes, fresh herbs, or different spices like smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.

Is this Red Enchilada Sauce spicy?

The heat level depends on the chili powder used. Adjust the amount according to your preference for spice.

Final Thoughts

This homemade red enchilada sauce is a flavorful addition to many dishes. It’s quick to make and allows for customization based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re making enchiladas, tacos, or even using it as a dipping sauce, this versatile recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try today!