Are you tired of bland, store-bought enchilada sauces that leave your taste buds begging for more? Get ready to transform your Mexican cooking game with this incredibly simple, mouth-watering homemade enchilada sauce that will make your friends and family think you've been secretly trained by a professional chef! In just 30 minutes, you'll create a rich, vibrant sauce that's bursting with authentic Mexican flavors and will elevate any enchilada dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, ensuring the pan is evenly coated.
- Add all-purpose flour to the heated oil, whisking continuously to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour turns slightly golden and releases a nutty aroma.
- Gradually pour in tomato sauce and vegetable broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming and to create a smooth, integrated base.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder, stirring to distribute the spices evenly throughout the sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reducing heat to low and allowing the sauce to thicken for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper, adjusting spices to your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Use immediately in your enchilada recipe or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Whisk Continuously: When creating the roux and adding liquids, constant whisking is key to preventing lumps and ensuring a smooth, silky sauce.
- Toast Your Spices: For an extra depth of flavor, lightly toast your chili powder and cumin in the oil before adding flour to release their essential oils.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the chili powder quantity to control the sauce's spiciness. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños.
- Quality Matters: Use high-quality tomato sauce and fresh spices for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: This sauce freezes beautifully! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months, giving you a quick flavor boost whenever you need it.
- Consistency Check: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply whisk in a little more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
