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Enchilada Sauce

Enchilada Sauce

  • Author: Madison
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 cups 1x
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A rich and flavorful homemade enchilada sauce made with tomatoes, chili, and a blend of spices — perfect for smothering your favorite enchiladas or any Mexican dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to toast the spices.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.
  5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your desired consistency.
  6. Adjust seasoning as needed and remove from heat. Let the sauce cool slightly before using.

Notes

  • For a smoother sauce, blend the mixture with an immersion blender or regular blender.
  • This sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper or using mild chili powder.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup
  • Calories: 40
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 2g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: enchilada sauce, homemade enchilada sauce, Mexican sauce, chili sauce, vegan enchilada sauce