Description
This easy red enchilada sauce recipe is a flavorful and vibrant addition to your Mexican-inspired dishes. Made with a blend of chili powder, spices, and a rich roux base, this sauce simmers to perfection in just 15 minutes, perfect for enchiladas, tacos, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Enchilada Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a medium saucepan, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat to prepare for making the roux.
- Create the roux: Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes while continuously whisking to form a smooth roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add spices: Stir in 3 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant to deepen the flavor.
- Incorporate broth: Slowly pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and create a smooth sauce base.
- Season and simmer: Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon tomato paste (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust: Sample the sauce and add additional salt or spices if needed to balance the flavors.
- Serve or store: Use the enchilada sauce immediately in your dishes or transfer it to an airtight container to store for later use.
Notes
- Tomato paste is optional but adds richer flavor and deeper color to the sauce.
- The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for longer storage.
- Adjust chili powder based on your preferred level of heat.
- Vegetarian broth can be used to keep the sauce vegetarian-friendly.
- Use fresh spices for the best aroma and flavor intensity.
