Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Are you ready to take your taco nights to the next level? If so, let me introduce you to the ultimate Easy Red Enchilada Sauce! It’s rich, flavorful, and simply bursting with vibrant ingredients that will leave your taste buds dancing. This sauce is not just an accompaniment to your enchiladas; it’s the superstar that elevates the whole dish. And guess what? It’s super simple to prepare, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish! Family-friendly and surprisingly quick, this sauce makes whipping up wholesome dinners a breeze.
Did you know that enchilada sauces date back to ancient Mesoamerica? The art of making rich, complex sauces has evolved over centuries, but today, you can create a delicious version in your own kitchen in no time. If you love our classic taco sauce or the zesty pico de gallo on the blog, you’ll find our Easy Red Enchilada Sauce an equally amazing complement! So, roll up your sleeves and get excited—the flavors are waiting for you!
What is Easy Red Enchilada Sauce?
What’s in a name? Well, when it comes to Easy Red Enchilada Sauce, quite a bit! This sauce is the perfect blend of spices, tomatoes, and chilies, creating a deep red hue that’s both eye-catching and inviting. But here’s a fun fact: you may wonder why we call it “enchilada sauce” rather than just “sauce.” Perhaps it’s the fanciful notion that it makes us feel like we’re dining in a vibrant Mexican cantina! After all, they say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and trust me, this sauce will win hearts near and far. So, why not whip up a batch and see what all the buzz is about? You’ll be glad you did!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
There are so many reasons to love Easy Red Enchilada Sauce that I hardly know where to start! First and foremost, the main highlight is its heavenly depth of flavor, which is created by combining tangy tomatoes with spices and herbs. Every bite will have you dreaming of Latin America’s vibrant streets!
Secondly, making this sauce at home is a real cost-saving benefit compared to store-bought options. Why settle for a sodium-filled dip when you can have a fresh, homemade version? Believe me, your wallet (and your taste buds) will thank you.
Lastly, let’s talk about the flavorful toppings. You can customize your enchiladas with your favorite toppings like cilantro, cheese, or avocado, creating a meal that suits everyone’s preferences. If you love how our homemade marinara sauce perfectly complements pasta night, this enchilada sauce will do the same for Taco Tuesdays! So grab that saucepan and let’s get started on this flavor-packed journey!
How to Make Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Quick Overview
Making Easy Red Enchilada Sauce is as simple as mixing a few ingredients in a pan. It’s not just quick—it’s a deliciously satisfying way to turn any meal into an occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this tasty sauce that can elevate your burritos, tacos, and enchiladas into something spectacular. With only about 15 minutes on the clock, you’ll have a homemade creation that rivals your favorite restaurant!
Key Ingredients for Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Here’s a list of all the necessary ingredients to create your new favorite sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Oil: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Make the Roux: Once the oil is hot, sprinkle in the flour. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until smooth and slightly bubbly.
- Add Spices: Mix in the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin, stirring for another minute to let the spices bloom.
- Incorporate Tomato Sauce: Slowly pour in the tomato sauce while stirring, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
- Add Broth: Gradually add the vegetable broth and continue to stir until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Season: Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve Hot: Use immediately or let it cool down if storing for later!
What to Serve Easy Red Enchilada Sauce With
Now that you’ve made your Easy Red Enchilada Sauce, you may wonder what to serve alongside it. Consider pairing your sauce with fluffy corn tortillas, crispy baked enchiladas, or even tacos filled with your favorite proteins. Need a refreshing side? Try a zesty Mexican slaw or elote (Mexican street corn), which complements the saucy goodness beautifully. Don’t forget to pour yourself a nice glass of margarita or mocktail for an authentic fiesta experience!
Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
- Customize Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice levels to match your taste—feel free to add more chili powder if you like it spicy!
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh spices will greatly enhance the flavor, so check your pantry for older spices and replace them if necessary.
- Consistency Tips: If the sauce is too thick, simply add a bit more vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing your Easy Red Enchilada Sauce is simple! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Your homemade sauce can be refrigerated for up to one week or frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also toss it in the microwave for a quick reheat, but be sure to cover it to avoid splatter.
Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on making and enjoying Easy Red Enchilada Sauce, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and give it a try. Your family (and your taste buds) will thank you for it! Happy cooking!
Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, sprinkle in the flour. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until smooth and slightly bubbly.
- Mix in the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin, stirring for another minute to let the spices bloom.
- Slowly pour in the tomato sauce while stirring, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
- Gradually add the vegetable broth and continue to stir until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Use immediately or let it cool down if storing for later!
