Red Enchilada Sauce
Red Enchilada Sauce is a rich, smooth, and flavorful homemade sauce made with simple pantry ingredients. It has a deep red color, warm chili flavor, and a perfectly seasoned taste that makes it ideal for enchiladas, burritos, casseroles, and many other Mexican-inspired dishes.
Ingredients
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Add the olive oil to a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and stir continuously for about 1 minute until smooth and lightly cooked.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder, and cook for 20–30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Slowly pour in the broth while whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free.
5. Add the tomato paste, salt, and black pepper, then mix until fully combined.
6. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Remove from heat and use warm, or let it cool before storing.
Notes
- Choose fresh chili powder for vibrant color and better flavor.
- Add or reduce chili powder to match your desired heat level.
- Whisk continuously while adding broth to achieve a silky texture.
- Keep chilled in a sealed airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze in small portions for easy future use.
- This sauce is also perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, and layered casseroles.