Name: Homemade Enchilada Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 114.5 oz diced fire roasted tomatoes; 1/4 cup canola oil; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 1/4 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp garlic salt

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When I think of comfort food, I often picture a warm, hearty dish covered in a rich sauce that just wraps around you like a cozy blanket. That’s exactly how I feel about Homemade Enchilada Sauce. The first time I made it, I was experimenting in my kitchen one rainy afternoon, trying to recreate the flavors I loved from my favorite Mexican restaurant. As the aroma filled my home, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This sauce is not just a component; it’s the heart of any enchilada dish that elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. I remember gathering my family around the table, eager to dig in, and watching their faces light up with every bite. It’s a memory I cherish, and now I share it with you.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
75 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
4 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Blender, Whisk, Saucepan, Mixing Bowl, Cutting Board

Why This Homemade Enchilada Sauce Is So Good

The Rich, Bold Flavor

What I absolutely love about this Homemade Enchilada Sauce is its depth of flavor. The combination of ripe tomatoes, warming spices, and just the right amount of heat creates a sauce that’s bursting with excitement. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, blending together to form a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Easy to Customize

This recipe is incredibly forgiving and allows you to adjust the heat and seasoning to your liking. Whether you like it mild or spicy, you can easily tweak the ingredients. Adding more chili powder or a dash of cayenne can turn up the heat, while a touch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Perfect for Meal Prep

I often make a big batch of this sauce and store it for later use. It keeps well in the fridge and even freezes beautifully, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Just reheat and use it in your favorite dishes!

Versatile Ingredient

This sauce isn’t just for enchiladas. I’ve used it in burritos, on top of grilled chicken, and even as a base for chilaquiles. Its versatility makes it a must-have in any kitchen, and I love how it can transform simple meals into something spectacular.

A Family Favorite

Every time I make this sauce, it brings my family together. The smiles, laughter, and full bellies are a reminder of why I love cooking. It’s more than just food; it’s about creating moments and memories with the people you love.

What Goes Into Homemade Enchilada Sauce

When crafting a Homemade Enchilada Sauce, the ingredients you choose matter. Each component contributes to the overall flavor and texture, creating that rich, satisfying sauce you crave. The key players here are fresh ingredients that blend harmoniously, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

114.5 oz can diced fire roasted tomatoes – These tomatoes provide a base that’s both sweet and smoky, perfect for a flavorful sauce.
1/4 cup canola oil – Used for sautéing, this oil adds richness and helps in blending the spices smoothly.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour – This thickens the sauce, giving it a hearty, luxurious texture.
2 tbsp chili powder – A crucial spice that brings depth and warmth, making the sauce flavorful.
1 1/4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth – This adds moisture and enhances the sauce’s overall taste.
1/2 tsp cumin – Cumin introduces an earthy note, enhancing the complexity of flavors.
1/2 tsp onion powder – This subtle flavor rounds out the sauce perfectly.
1/2 tsp garlic salt – A touch of garlic flavor that elevates the whole dish.

Recipe Steps for Homemade Enchilada Sauce

Making Homemade Enchilada Sauce is as rewarding as it is simple. I always look forward to this moment in the kitchen, where the magic happens with just a few easy steps. Let’s dive right into the process!

Begin by placing the diced fire roasted tomatoes in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, then set aside. This is the base of your sauce, and it should be velvety and rich.
In a large saucepan, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Make sure to coat the bottom of the pan well; this will help in sautéing the spices.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and chili powder to the pan while whisking continuously. You want to form a smooth paste without any lumps. The mixture should start to bubble slightly.
Continue to whisk as you pour in the blended tomatoes and the chicken broth. The consistency should be smooth and liquid, with all the ingredients melding together beautifully.
Add the remaining spices: cumin, onion powder, and garlic salt. Stir well, ensuring that everything is evenly distributed.
Once the mixture begins to bubble again, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, whisking occasionally. You’ll notice the flavors melding together, which is a critical step!
After simmering, check the consistency. If you desire a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. The sauce should be rich and aromatic.
When ready, remove from heat. You can either use the sauce immediately in your favorite recipe or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for later use.
Enjoy your homemade sauce as a delightful addition to any meal, adding that authentic touch that elevates the dish!

Things Worth Knowing

Flavor Development: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop deeper flavors, so don’t rush this step.
Texture Matters: The blending of tomatoes should be smooth. If you prefer a chunky sauce, blend less.
Heat Control: Adjust the heat level by changing the amount of chili powder or adding fresh chilies.
Storage Tips: Store the sauce in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer shelf life.

Variations to Try

There’s so much you can do with Homemade Enchilada Sauce! It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your tastes. Here are some variations and tips to consider:

Storage: Make a large batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: This sauce freezes well! Pour it into freezer bags, lay them flat in the freezer, and it’ll be ready whenever you need it.
Spice Levels: For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the blend.
Herbs: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like cilantro for a fresh pop of flavor.
Texture Variations: If you enjoy a chunkier sauce, reserve some diced tomatoes and stir them in at the end.

Serving This Homemade Enchilada Sauce

Finding the perfect way to serve your Homemade Enchilada Sauce can turn your everyday meals into something special. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Enchiladas: Of course, the classic use! Pour over rolled tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or veggies.
Burritos: Drizzle this sauce over burritos for a delectable finish.
Chilaquiles: Use it as a base for delicious chilaquiles topped with fried eggs.
With Grilled Chicken: Brush it over grilled chicken for a flavorful glaze.
On Tacos: Drizzle over hard or soft tacos for a burst of flavor.
Soups and Stews: Stir some into your soups or stews to enhance the flavor profile.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can make Homemade Enchilada Sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes well, so if you make a large batch, just portion it out into freezer bags for later use. This way, you have a delicious sauce ready whenever you want to whip up some enchiladas or other Mexican dishes.

If you’re looking to experiment, you can use other canned tomatoes, like plain diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes. For a different flavor profile, roasted tomatoes can add a richer taste. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as different varieties may have varying levels of sweetness and acidity.

Definitely! The Homemade Enchilada Sauce recipe is very flexible. You can increase the amount of chili powder for more heat or add fresh chilies to the mix. If you find it too spicy, a little sugar can help balance the heat without affecting the flavor too much.

This sauce is incredibly versatile! Of course, it’s perfect for enchiladas, but you can also use it in burritos, tacos, or chilaquiles. It makes a great topping for grilled chicken or even as a flavorful addition to soups and stews. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

The Homemade Enchilada Sauce is truly a game changer in the kitchen, transforming ordinary meals into something special. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for this sauce again and again. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; you’ll be amazed at how much better your dishes taste with this homemade touch!