The Ultimate Guide to Enchilada Sauce: Homemade, Authentic, and Canned Options
Enchiladas are one of the most cherished dishes in Mexican cuisine. At the heart of this flavorful meal lies the signature enchilada sauce. A great enchilada sauce can elevate the dish from good to extraordinary, adding depth, heat, and complexity. Whether you’re looking to make your own homemade version, seeking the most authentic recipe, or trying to find the best canned options available, it’s crucial to know the essentials. This guide will provide everything you need to know about enchilada sauce, from easy recipes to tips on authenticity and recommendations for the best canned varieties.
What Is Enchilada Sauce?
Enchilada sauce is a flavorful, often spicy, sauce used primarily to cover and cook enchiladas. The sauce is what makes enchiladas stand out, providing a deep layer of taste that complements the fillings, whether they are meat, cheese, or vegetables. There are two primary types of enchilada sauce: red and green. The red version is typically made with dried chiles and tomato-based ingredients, while the green version uses tomatillos and green chiles, giving it a more tangy flavor.
Despite its Mexican roots, enchilada sauce has found its way into many kitchens worldwide, with various interpretations and versions. No matter which version you choose, making the perfect sauce requires the right balance of spices, flavors, and sometimes, a little patience.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to make the perfect enchilada sauce, delve into authentic Mexican recipes, and provide tips for choosing the best canned options when you’re in a rush.
How to Make Enchilada Sauce from Scratch
Making your own enchilada sauce from scratch offers you the chance to experiment with flavor and spice levels. It’s much easier than most people think, and with the right ingredients, you can create a sauce that rivals your favorite Mexican restaurants. Here’s a basic recipe to start with:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Make a Roux: Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about a minute to create a roux. This forms the base of your sauce and thickens it as it cooks.
- Add the Spices: Add the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, and paprika to the roux. Stir well to combine and let the spices bloom for about 30 seconds. This step allows the flavors to meld together and become aromatic.
- Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to allow it to caramelize slightly. This adds depth and richness to your sauce.
- Add the Broth: Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring constantly. This ensures the sauce remains smooth and prevents clumps from forming.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more broth.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once your sauce reaches the perfect texture and flavor, it’s ready to use.
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the seasonings and spice levels as you see fit. For those who prefer a spicy sauce, feel free to add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to give it an extra kick.
Authentic Mexican Enchilada Sauce Recipe
When it comes to making authentic Mexican enchilada sauce, nothing beats using dried chiles. This traditional method infuses the sauce with a rich, smoky flavor that is the hallmark of a truly authentic enchilada experience. The most common chiles used for this purpose are Ancho and Guajillo, which provide a mild heat and earthy sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 3 dried Ancho chiles
- 2 dried Guajillo chiles
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 ripe tomato, quartered
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Toast the Dried Chiles: Begin by removing the stems and seeds from the Ancho and Guajillo chiles. Place them in a hot, dry skillet over medium heat and toast for about 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally. This step is crucial, as it enhances the flavor of the chiles without burning them.
- Soak the Chiles: Once toasted, transfer the chiles to a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for about 20 minutes, or until they become soft and pliable.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: While the chiles are soaking, sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of oil until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Blend the Sauce: After the chiles have softened, add them to a blender along with the sautéed onion, garlic, tomato, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Add 2 cups of water and blend until smooth.
- Simmer and Adjust: Pour the sauce into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thick, add more water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Taste and Season: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt or cumin, if necessary. Once it tastes just right, it’s ready to be used on your enchiladas.
This traditional enchilada sauce offers a deep, complex flavor profile with smoky, earthy notes from the dried chiles. It’s perfect for anyone looking to bring a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine to their home-cooked meals.
The Best Canned Enchilada Sauce: Quick and Delicious Options
While making enchilada sauce from scratch is an enjoyable experience, sometimes you need a shortcut without sacrificing taste. Fortunately, there are several excellent canned enchilada sauces available that can save you time and effort without compromising flavor. Here are some of the top canned enchilada sauces:
- Old El Paso Red Enchilada Sauce
Old El Paso is a well-known brand in Mexican cuisine and is a go-to option for many home cooks. Their red enchilada sauce has a balanced blend of spices with a mild to medium heat level. It’s perfect for those who want a reliable and quick option for their enchiladas. The consistency is smooth, and the sauce adds just the right amount of tang and flavor. - Herdez Mexican Enchilada Sauce
If you’re looking for an authentic taste, Herdez is an excellent choice. Known for its traditional flavors, this brand offers a range of enchilada sauces, including a mild and a hot version. The mild sauce is perfect for families who prefer less heat, while the hot version will please those who love a fiery kick. Herdez uses simple ingredients, which helps bring out the true flavors of Mexican cuisine. - La Victoria Enchilada Sauce
La Victoria is another beloved brand offering a tangy red enchilada sauce that’s rich and flavorful. The sauce has a smooth texture, making it ideal for both traditional enchiladas and other Mexican dishes like burritos and tacos. It has a slightly more tangy profile, making it a great option if you enjoy a bit of sharpness in your enchilada sauce. - Roland Enchilada Sauce
Roland is a premium brand known for producing high-quality international products, and their enchilada sauce is no exception. It’s made with rich, flavorful chiles and offers a smooth, hearty sauce that’s ideal for anyone looking for a more refined enchilada sauce. It is slightly thicker than others, making it perfect for a more decadent sauce. - Mild & Spicy Salsa Enchilada Sauce
For those who enjoy the added complexity of salsa, this sauce incorporates a unique blend of tomato, onion, and other vegetables. It’s a tangy and slightly spicy option that works wonderfully with enchiladas and other Mexican dishes. The versatility of this sauce makes it an excellent pantry staple.
When choosing a canned enchilada sauce, it’s essential to read the ingredient list to avoid any sauces that include artificial preservatives or unnecessary additives. Look for options with natural ingredients that prioritize flavor without any unnecessary processing.
Quick and Easy Enchilada Sauce Recipe
For busy nights when you don’t have the time or energy to make a full enchilada sauce from scratch, this easy recipe is a lifesaver. In just a few minutes, you can have a flavorful sauce that’s perfect for any quick enchilada meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and water.
- Simmer: Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook: Allow the sauce to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, cumin, or chili powder to suit your preferences.
This is an excellent go-to sauce for anyone in need of a quick fix. While it doesn’t have the depth of a homemade or traditional sauce, it still brings enough flavor to make a satisfying meal when you’re short on time.
Conclusion: Which Enchilada Sauce is Right for You?
When it comes to enchilada sauce, the right choice depends on your cooking style, time, and flavor preferences. Making a homemade enchilada sauce allows you to experiment with flavors and ingredients, giving you the ability to adjust the spice levels and flavor profiles exactly to your liking. For those who want an authentic taste of Mexico, using dried chiles and blending them into a smooth, flavorful sauce is a true culinary experience.
However, if you’re pressed for time or prefer convenience, the canned options listed above provide excellent alternatives that don’t compromise too much on flavor. Canned enchilada sauces can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights while still delivering a satisfying meal.
No matter how you choose to make your enchilada sauce, it’s sure to elevate your dish and impress everyone at the table. So whether you’re whipping up a homemade sauce from scratch or grabbing a can from the store, your enchiladas will be the star of the meal. Enjoy experimenting and tasting your way to the perfect enchilada sauce!