Name: Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tbsp avocado oil; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; ¼ cup chili powder; ½ tsp powder; ½ tsp ground cumin; ¼ tsp oregano; 2 cups chicken stock; fine sea salt

The authentic red enchilada sauce, a staple in Mexican cuisine, is incredibly versatile. The robust blend of spices combined with a tangy hint makes it an ideal addition to a variety of dishes. It's simple, quick to make, and far superior to any store-bought version.

Photos of Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe

While most ingredients of this recipe should be readily available in your pantry, the key ingredient, chili powder, might require a trip to the grocery store. Ensure that it is pure chili powder, not a chili seasoning mix or a blend. For a vegan version, substitute the chicken stock with a vegetable version.

Ingredients for Authentic Red Enchilada Sauce

avocado oil: It is preferred for its high smoke point and buttery flavor. Can be replaced with canola or vegetable oil.

all-purpose flour: Used as a thickening agent. You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

chili powder: This is the main ingredient, giving the sauce its unique flavor and color.

garlic powder: Adds a depth of flavor. Fresh minced garlic can be used as an alternative.

ground cumin: Provides an earthy, smoky note.

oregano: Adds a touch of Italian flavor. Mexican oregano is an even better fit.

chicken stock: Enhances the flavor of the sauce. Use vegetable stock for vegan alternatives.

fine sea salt: Balances out the flavors.

One reader, Alexa Murdock says:

This authentic red enchilada sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and authentic, and it's incredibly easy to make. It's the perfect balance of spices and heat. I've used it for enchiladas, tacos, and even as a dipping sauce. It's a must-try for any Mexican cuisine lover!

Alexa Murdock

Key Techniques for Crafting Authentic Red Enchilada Sauce

How to make the enchilada sauce: This involves heating the oil, adding the flour, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano, and then gradually adding the stock while whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.

How to season the sauce: After the sauce has thickened, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.

How To Make Red Enchilada Sauce

You’ll never have to put up with the store-bought stuff again when you have this enchilada sauce recipe. This easy-to-make sauce is full of various herbs.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspavocado oil,or olive oil
2tbspall-purpose flour
¼cupchili powder
½tsppowder
½tspground cumin
¼tsporegano,dried
2cupschicken stock,or vegetable stock
fine sea salt,to taste

Instructions

Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly. Add in the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin and oregano and cook for 1 more minute, whisking constantly.
Gradually pour in the stock, whisking constantly to combine until no lumps remain. Continue cooking until the sauce reaches a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low to maintain the simmer (the sauce should continue lightly bubbling) for about 10-15 minutes, uncovered, until the sauce has slightly thickened.
Give the sauce a taste and season with salt, as needed.
Use immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 858.05kcal
Fat: 58.09g
Saturated Fat: 8.41g
Monounsaturated Fat: 35.61g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.19g
Carbohydrates: 68.11g
Fiber: 17.66g
Sugar: 14.94g
Protein: 27.34g
Cholesterol: 21.60mg
Sodium: 2408.97mg
Calcium: 204.17mg
Potassium: 1749.96mg
Iron: 12.09mg
Vitamin A: 720.37µg
Vitamin C: 1.91mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Authentic Red Enchilada Sauce

When making your enchilada sauce, it's important to whisk constantly when adding the flour and spices to the oil. This ensures that the flour is fully incorporated and prevents the formation of lumps. Similarly, when adding the chicken stock, continuous whisking helps to create a smooth, velvety sauce. Remember, the key to a great sauce is patience and constant attention.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Enchilada Sauce

Plan ahead: Prep ingredients and tools in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: Look for opportunities to combine tasks, such as chopping vegetables while waiting for water to boil.

Use leftovers: Repurpose leftover ingredients to create new dishes and reduce cooking time.

Invest in quality tools: High-quality knives and kitchen gadgets can make food preparation more efficient.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to minimize time spent searching for ingredients and tools.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming fixes.

Minimize distractions: Focus on the task at hand to work more efficiently and save time.

Clean as you go: Wash dishes and clean up spills while cooking to reduce post-meal cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe

avocado oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a suitable substitute for avocado oil and will provide a similar richness and flavor to the dish.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent in place of all-purpose flour, and it is also gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika and cayenne: A combination of paprika and cayenne can replicate the flavor and heat of chili powder in the enchilada sauce.
powder - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for onion powder to add a similar savory flavor to the sauce.
ground cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can be used as a substitute for ground cumin to provide a similar earthy and citrusy flavor to the dish.
oregano - Substitute with marjoram: Marjoram can be used as a substitute for oregano to provide a similar herbaceous flavor to the enchilada sauce.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a substitute for chicken stock to make the enchilada sauce vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used as a substitute for fine sea salt and will provide a similar level of salinity to the dish.

How to Present This Delicious Sauce

Elevate the plating: When presenting the enchilada sauce, consider using a white, wide-rimmed plate to create a stunning contrast with the rich red color of the sauce. The white plate will allow the sauce to take center stage and showcase its vibrant hue.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle a few fresh cilantro leaves over the top of the enchilada sauce. The bright green color will provide a beautiful pop of contrast against the red sauce, and the aromatic herb will add a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider serving the enchilada sauce in a small, sleek ramekin to add a modern touch to the presentation. The smooth, glossy surface of the ramekin will complement the velvety texture of the sauce, creating an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Accent with a drizzle of cream: Use a squeeze bottle to create a delicate drizzle of cream over the top of the enchilada sauce. The contrast of the white cream against the red sauce will add visual interest and create an elegant, restaurant-worthy presentation.
Pair with artisanal tortilla chips: Serve the enchilada sauce alongside a stack of golden, house-made tortilla chips. The combination of the rich red sauce and the crispy, golden chips will create a visually appealing and inviting presentation that is sure to impress.

Essential Tools for Making Enchilada Sauce

Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and often a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking foods.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients such as eggs, sauces, and batters.
Small saucepan: A smaller version of a saucepan, ideal for heating and cooking smaller quantities of sauces and liquids.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring and portioning out liquid and dry ingredients in cooking and baking.
Measuring spoons: Used for measuring small amounts of ingredients, such as spices, flavorings, and baking powder.
Wooden spoon: A versatile kitchen tool used for stirring, mixing, and tasting dishes, especially those cooked at high temperatures.
Small whisk: A smaller-sized whisk used for blending and mixing ingredients in smaller containers or for more delicate tasks.
Spatula: A flat, flexible kitchen tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients, such as when making enchiladas.
Cooking thermometer: Essential for checking the temperature of the sauce to ensure it reaches a simmer and is cooked to the desired level.
Tasting spoon: A small spoon used for sampling and adjusting the seasoning of the sauce as it cooks.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Enchilada Sauce

Once the enchilada sauce has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or jar. Make sure to leave some headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when it was made.
Store the enchilada sauce in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little water or chicken stock to thin it out when reheating.
If you want to freeze the sauce for later use, pour it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Squeeze out any excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
The enchilada sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, thaw the sauce overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or chicken stock to adjust the consistency if it's too thick.
If you have leftover enchiladas made with the sauce, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, cover the enchiladas with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Enchilada Sauce

To reheat leftover enchilada sauce, start by transferring the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters and help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the sauce is heated through and reaches your desired temperature. This method is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy your leftover sauce without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Another great way to reheat your enchilada sauce is on the stovetop. Pour the sauce into a small saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water to thin it out and help it heat more evenly. Continue heating and stirring until the sauce is warmed through and reaches your desired consistency. This method allows you to have more control over the temperature and texture of your reheated sauce, ensuring that it tastes just as delicious as when it was first made.
For those who prefer a more hands-off approach, reheating your leftover enchilada sauce in a slow cooker or Crockpot can be an excellent option. Simply transfer the sauce to the slow cooker, cover it with the lid, and set the temperature to low. Allow the sauce to heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This method is perfect for those who want to reheat a large batch of sauce without having to constantly monitor it on the stovetop. Plus, the slow, gentle heating process helps to preserve the rich flavors and textures of your homemade enchilada sauce.
If you find yourself with a large amount of leftover enchilada sauce and don't plan on using it all at once, consider freezing it for later use. To do this, allow the sauce to cool completely to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to use the frozen sauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it using one of the methods mentioned above. Freezing your leftover sauce is a great way to extend its shelf life and ensure that you always have a delicious, homemade sauce on hand for future Mexican-inspired meals.

Interesting Fact About Authentic Red Enchilada Sauce

The authentic red enchilada sauce recipe is a staple in Mexican cuisine and is known for its rich and robust flavor. It is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, not just enchiladas. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and oregano gives the sauce its distinct taste, while the chicken stock adds depth and richness. This sauce can be made in advance and stored for later use, making it a convenient addition to any kitchen. Whether used as a topping for enchiladas, a dip for chips, or a base for soups, this authentic red enchilada sauce is sure to elevate any dish.

Is Making Enchilada Sauce at Home Cost-Effective?

This authentic red enchilada sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens and are relatively inexpensive. The use of simple pantry staples like flour and chili powder keeps the cost low. Additionally, the recipe yields a generous amount of sauce, making it suitable for multiple meals. Overall, this recipe is a budget-friendly option for households. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate it an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $8-$10.

Is Authentic Red Enchilada Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?

The authentic red enchilada sauce recipe is relatively healthy, as it uses avocado oil, which is a heart-healthy fat, and includes spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano, which offer various health benefits. The recipe also uses chicken stock, which can provide some protein and nutrients. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the sauce even healthier:

Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour would increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients
Reducing the amount of oil used or substituting it with a lower-fat option, such as vegetable broth, could help decrease the overall fat content
Adding more vegetables, such as diced tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers, would boost the sauce's vitamin and mineral content while also increasing its fiber
Opting for low-sodium chicken stock and adjusting the added salt accordingly would help control the sauce's sodium levels, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure

By incorporating these changes, the authentic red enchilada sauce can be transformed into an even healthier version without compromising its flavor. The addition of vegetables and the use of whole wheat flour would make the sauce more nutrient-dense and filling, while the reduction in oil and sodium would help align the recipe with heart-healthy guidelines. Ultimately, these modifications would allow individuals to enjoy the delicious sauce while also supporting their overall health and well-being.

Editor's Opinion on This Authentic Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe

This red enchilada sauce recipe is a classic and authentic version that captures the bold flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and oregano creates a rich and aromatic sauce that is perfect for smothering enchiladas or using as a base for other Mexican dishes. The use of chicken stock adds depth of flavor, and the sauce thickens beautifully to coat your favorite ingredients. It's a versatile and delicious sauce that will elevate any dish with its robust and spicy profile. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and adding your own twist to make it your own.

Enhance Your Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a zesty and creamy guacamole with ripe avocados, fresh lime juice, and a hint of spice.

Mexican Street Corn: Grill up some sweet corn and slather it with a tangy and savory mixture of mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder.

Churros: Whip up a batch of crispy and sugary churros for a sweet and satisfying dessert option.

Pico de Gallo: Mix together fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapenos for a refreshing and flavorful salsa to accompany your enchiladas.

Tres Leches Cake: Indulge in a decadent and moist tres leches cake soaked in three types of milk for a rich and satisfying dessert.

Delicious Alternatives to Authentic Red Enchilada Sauce

Spicy Beef Tacos: These tacos are packed with flavor and heat, perfect for a spicy food lover!

Mango Salsa Chicken: This dish combines the sweetness of mango with the savory flavor of chicken for a delicious and refreshing meal.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A comforting and creamy soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. Pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Berry Cobbler: This classic dessert is a great way to showcase the sweetness of fresh berries. Top it with some vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Authentic Red Enchilada Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs.

Bruschetta: Serve up a classic Italian appetizer with a twist by topping crispy baguette slices with a variety of fresh and vibrant toppings, such as tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Fluffy Lemon Soufflé: Delight in a light and airy lemon soufflé, bursting with bright citrus flavor. This delicate dessert is sure to impress with its fluffy texture and zesty taste.

Why trust this Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe:

This authentic red enchilada sauce recipe is a tried and true favorite, crafted with care by a seasoned chef. The chili powder, cumin, and oregano infuse the sauce with rich, aromatic flavors. The use of avocado oil and chicken stock ensures a wholesome, satisfying base. With meticulous attention to detail and a balance of traditional spices, this recipe promises to deliver an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe and savor the delicious results.

Share your thoughts on the Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

What type of chili powder should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of chili powder for this recipe, but I recommend using a mild or medium chili powder for a balanced flavor.

Can I make this enchilada sauce ahead of time and store it?

Yes, you can make this enchilada sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just reheat it before using.

Is there a substitute for chicken stock in this recipe?

If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for this recipe.

Can I freeze this enchilada sauce?

Yes, you can freeze this enchilada sauce for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

How spicy is this enchilada sauce?

The spiciness of the enchilada sauce will depend on the type of chili powder you use. If you prefer a milder sauce, you can use a mild chili powder or reduce the amount of chili powder in the recipe.