Green Enchilada Sauce
A vibrant, tangy green enchilada sauce made from roasted green tomatoes and garlic, perfect for adding bold flavor to Mexican dishes and suitable for vegetarian meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash tomatoes; quarter and remove all seeds.
- Peel garlic.
- Put all ingredients in a large pot with a quart of water.
- Watch the pot so the tomatoes won't stick.
- Add water as needed during cooking.
- When all tomatoes are tender, remove from stove and cool.
- Run everything through a blender until smooth.
- Return the blended mixture to the stove and bring to a boil.
- Pour into quart jars and process for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an enhanced flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes and garlic before blending. If green tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute with tomatillos for a similar taste. Adjust the salt and red chili powder to your desired spice level. Fresh ground cumin adds depth, but ground cumin can also work in a pinch. This sauce is a versatile base for many Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This green enchilada sauce pairs beautifully with enchiladas or as a topping for tacos. It also works well as a zesty dip for chips or drizzled over burrito bowls. Consider serving it alongside Great Guacamole for a fresh and flavorful meal. Add some shredded chicken or beans for a hearty dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover green enchilada sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in ice cube trays or freezer bags for up to three months. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Enchilada Sauce contains roughly 131 calories, with 6g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (107% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 577mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned green tomatoes for this recipe?
While fresh green tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, you can use canned green tomatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and adjust the seasoning since canned versions can be saltier.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To increase the heat in your green enchilada sauce, add more red chili powder or fresh jalapeños while cooking. You can also blend in some chipotle peppers for a smoky kick. Just remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Is this sauce suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this green enchilada sauce is entirely plant-based and fits well within vegan recipes. It contains no animal products, making it a perfect choice for those following a vegan diet or looking for a delicious, meat-free option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).