When it comes to savory, rich flavors, nothing beats a classic homemade Easy Red Enchilada Sauce. This sauce is the perfect blend of spiciness and savory goodness, enveloping your favorite fillings in a warm, comforting embrace. Made with simple ingredients from your pantry, this sauce can elevate a standard dish into a memorable family feast. I have vivid memories of my mother whisking together spices and tomato puree to create a sauce that brought everyone to the dinner table, and it always sparked laughter and joy. It’s easy to whip up, and the best part? It’s an excellent way to bring people together, reminiscent of heartwarming meals with a hefty dose of nostalgia. If you’re a fan of comforting flavors, just like my popular homemade marinara sauce, then you’ll definitely want to keep reading to find out how your kitchen can be the new gathering spot for delicious meals.
What is Easy Red Enchilada Sauce?
So, what exactly is this delightful concoction called Easy Red Enchilada Sauce? Well, you’d be surprised! It’s not some complex potion brewing in a cauldron. In fact, it gets its name from its vibrant red color, thanks to rich tomatoes and sun-soaked spices that pack a punch. Have you ever thought about how the best recipes often have simple beginnings? Imagine a gathering where everyone is raving about your cooking. Remember the saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? This sauce just might win everybody over, regardless of gender. So why not grab a pot, roll up your sleeves, and join the culinary fun?
Why You’ll Love This Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
You’ll fall head over heels for Easy Red Enchilada Sauce for three main reasons. First, this sauce serves as a perfect highlight for your main dish; imagine rich, oozy cheese wrapped in tortillas smothered with this delectable sauce. Secondly, cooking at home not only saves money but ensures quality ingredients—no hidden surprises or questionable additives. Finally, the possibilities are endless with toppings; whether it’s freshly chopped cilantro, crumbled cheese, or a dollop of sour cream, each bite becomes an explosion of flavor. Compared to store-bought versions that can often disappoint, this homemade sauce is a revelation. Don’t leave your taste buds hanging; let’s dive into making this alluring sauce!
How to Make Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Quick Overview
The fantastic thing about this Easy Red Enchilada Sauce is just how simple it is to put together and how satisfying it can be. In just about 20 minutes, you’ll unravel a tantalizing sauce whose textures will have you reaching for extra servings. It’s the ideal way to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure!
Key Ingredients for Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to prepare your delicious sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Make sure to have these on hand for a foundational sauce that bursts with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to create your Easy Red Enchilada Sauce? Follow these simple steps:
- Heat the Oil: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, carefully add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux—this will give your sauce a lovely thickness.
- Add the Spices: Toss in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder, and continue whisking for another 30 seconds until the spices become fragrant.
- Incorporate Tomato Sauce: Next, slowly pour in the tomato sauce, whisking well to avoid any lumps.
- Pour the Broth: Gradually add the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while whisking.
- Season: Finally, sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon beautifully.
- Serve or Store: Remove from heat, and your sauce is ready to be utilized in your favorite enchiladas or stored for later!
Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
- Adjust the Spiciness: Feel free to add more or less chili powder based on your spice tolerance; you can even use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch mixed with a bit of cold water.
- Don’t Rush the Roux: Ensuring that the roux is well-cooked before adding other ingredients helps develop richer flavors.
- Mix and Match: The sauce can be used in various ways beyond enchiladas; drizzle it over quesadillas or even use it as a pizza sauce for a spicy kick!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Easy Red Enchilada Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until warmed through.
This homemade sauce is one that promises to love you back with its bold flavors and warm embrace. So what are you waiting for? Get those pots and pans ready, and let’s create some delicious memories together with this sensational Easy Red Enchilada Sauce!
Easy Red Enchilada Sauce
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Can be substituted with cornstarch for gluten-free version.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, carefully add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Toss in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder, and continue whisking for another 30 seconds until the spices become fragrant.
- Slowly pour in the tomato sauce, whisking well to avoid any lumps.
- Gradually add the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while whisking.
- Sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
- Remove from heat, and the sauce is ready to be utilized in your favorite enchiladas or stored for later.
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