Quick & Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Are you looking for a quick and delicious way to elevate your Mexican dishes? Look no further than this Easy Red Enchilada Sauce! This homemade sauce is perfect for enchiladas, burritos, and tacos. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can make this savory sauce in no time.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own enchilada sauce is not only cost-effective, but it also allows you to control the flavors and spice levels. Homemade sauce is fresher and healthier than store-bought options, often filled with preservatives and additives. This Easy Red Enchilada Sauce is rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit your taste. Plus, it’s an excellent way to impress your family and friends at your next gathering!
How to Make Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Making Easy Red Enchilada Sauce is simple and quick. Follow these easy steps to create the perfect sauce for your Mexican dishes.
Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil ($0.08)
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour ($0.02)
- 2 Tbsp chili powder ($0.60)
- 2 cups water ($0.00)
- 3 oz. tomato paste ($0.47)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin ($0.05)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder ($0.05)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper ($0.02)
- 3/4 tsp salt or pepper (to taste, $0.03)
Directions:
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Add the cooking oil, flour, and chili powder to a sauce pot. Turn the heat on to medium and whisk the ingredients together. Continue to whisk as the mixture begins to bubble. Whisk and cook the mixture for one minute once it begins bubbling.
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After one minute, whisk in the water, tomato paste, cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until smooth. Allow the sauce to come up to a simmer. Once it reaches a simmer, it will begin to thicken slightly.
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Starting with a 1/2 teaspoon, add salt to taste. I used about 3/4 teaspoon total. The sauce is now ready to use!
How to Serve Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
You can serve Easy Red Enchilada Sauce over a variety of dishes. It pairs perfectly with enchiladas, burritos, grilled chicken, or even bean tacos. Drizzle it over your favorite Mexican dishes for added flavor and enjoy!
How to Store Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
If you have leftover sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week. You can also freeze the sauce for longer storage. Simply pour the cooled sauce into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
Tips to Make Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
- You can add other ingredients like chopped onions or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
- To make the sauce thicker, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
Variation
Try adding a splash of lime juice or chopped cilantro for a fresh twist. You can also substitute the chili powder with a blend of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
FAQs
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Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
- Yes! You can make Easy Red Enchilada Sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for later use.
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Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
- Yes, you can use whole wheat flour if you prefer. It may slightly change the flavor and color of the sauce but will still be delicious!
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Is this sauce spicy?
- The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with a smaller amount of cayenne pepper to taste and gradually add more if you like it spicier.
With this Easy Red Enchilada Sauce recipe, you’ll bring a taste of Mexico right into your kitchen. Enjoy creating flavorful dishes with this simple and versatile sauce!
Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Ingredients
Base ingredients
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour You can substitute with whole wheat flour.
- 2 Tbsp chili powder Adjust based on spice preference.
- 2 cups water
- 3 oz. tomato paste
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper Reduce for a milder sauce.
- 3/4 tsp salt or pepper (to taste) Start with 1/2 tsp and adjust as needed.
Instructions
Cooking the Sauce
- Add the cooking oil, flour, and chili powder to a sauce pot. Turn the heat on to medium and whisk the ingredients together.
- Continue to whisk as the mixture begins to bubble. Whisk and cook the mixture for one minute once it begins bubbling.
- After one minute, whisk in the water, tomato paste, cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Allow the sauce to come up to a simmer. Once it reaches a simmer, it will begin to thicken slightly.
- Starting with a 1/2 teaspoon, add salt to taste. The sauce is now ready to use!
