This Homemade Enchilada Sauce is a rich and flavorful blend of spices, tomato sauce, and vegetable stock. It’s a perfect base for enchiladas, burritos, and other Mexican-inspired dishes, offering a homemade touch that’s far superior to store-bought versions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
- Rich and Flavorful: A perfect blend of spices creates a deeply satisfying taste.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the spices and heat level to your liking.
- No-Fuss Recipe: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this sauce a breeze to prepare.
Ingredients
- Olive Oil: Used to create a flavorful base for the roux.
- Flour: Thickens the sauce, creating a smooth texture.
- Chili Powder: Provides a warm, earthy spice and the signature enchilada flavor.
- Tomato Sauce: Forms the base of the sauce, adding a rich tomato flavor.
- Vegetable Stock: Adds depth and thins the sauce to the desired consistency.
- Garlic Powder: Contributes a savory, aromatic note.
- Onion Powder: Provides a savory, aromatic note.
- Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy spice.
- Salt & Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Create the Roux
In a medium-sized skillet, add olive oil, flour, and chili powder. Whisk until it starts to brown and is fragrant.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
Slowly whisk in the tomato sauce, vegetable stock, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Whisk until it starts to thicken.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the heat level.
- Use a whisk to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- For a richer flavor, use chicken or beef stock instead of vegetable stock.
How to Serve
- Use as a base for enchiladas, burritos, or tacos.
- Drizzle over nachos or quesadillas.
- Use as a simmering sauce for chicken or other meats.
- Add to soups or stews for a boost of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use tomato paste instead of tomato sauce?
Yes, but you’ll need to dilute it with more vegetable stock to achieve the desired consistency.
2. Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil can be used.
3. How can I make this sauce spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to increase the heat.
4. Can I make this sauce without flour?
Yes, you can use cornstarch or masa harina as a thickener. Whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to make a slurry and add it to the sauce. Or, add masa harina directly and whisk until thickened.
PrintHomemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 3 cups 1x
- Category: Sauces-condiments
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Homemade Enchilada Sauce is a rich and flavorful blend of spices and tomato, perfect for enhancing your favorite Mexican dishes. It’s a simple recipe that delivers a much better taste than store-bought versions.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable stock
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Spices: In a medium-sized skillet, add the olive oil, flour, and chili powder. Whisk until it starts to brown and is fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Slowly whisk in the tomato sauce, vegetable stock, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Whisk until it starts to thicken.
- Season and Serve: Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- You can use chicken broth instead of vegetable stock for a richer flavor.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the spiciness.
- This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For a deeper flavor, let the sauce sit in the fridge overnight before using.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg