Red Chili Enchilada Sauce
A rich, smoky red chili enchilada sauce with bold flavors, perfect for topping enchiladas, tacos, or as a spicy dip, appealing to fans of Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute garlic in hot bacon drippings in a medium saucepan over low heat.
- Add flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Stir in seasonings (red chili powder, salt, oregano, cumin).
- Gradually add tomato sauce and water; simmer about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of vinegar. If you want to reduce the heat, use mild chili powder instead of red chili powder. You can also substitute the bacon drippings with olive oil for a vegetarian version. This sauce works well in dishes like Aunt Jean'S Enchiladas or Mexican Mac.
Serving Suggestions
This enchilada sauce is perfect for drizzling over enchiladas, tacos, or burritos. It also pairs beautifully with Beefy Tostada Casserole or Spanish Delight Casserole. Serve it alongside a side of rice or beans for a complete meal, and don't forget to garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover enchilada sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Chili Enchilada Sauce contains roughly 49 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1405mg per serving (61% 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 make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the enchilada sauce in advance. It keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, and the flavors will deepen as it sits. Just reheat it before using to ensure a smooth consistency.
Is this sauce spicy?
The spice level of this sauce primarily depends on the red chili powder you use. For a milder sauce, opt for a mild variety or reduce the amount of chili powder. You can also balance the heat with a bit of sugar.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?
Absolutely! You can blend fresh tomatoes to make your own sauce. Use about 2-3 medium tomatoes, and cook them down until they reach a sauce-like consistency before adding to the recipe. This will give a fresh flavor to your enchilada sauce.
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).