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Create a flavorful homemade enchilada sauce with this easy recipe using simple pantry ingredients like chili powder, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Perfect for adding rich, authentic taste to your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes, this sauce is quick to make, versatile, and customizable to suit any meal. Learn tips for perfecting the consistency, explore substitutions, and find serving ideas to elevate your enchiladas, tacos, or casseroles.

Ingredients

Seasonings

2 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tsp EACH: garlic powder, onion powder, cumin
1 pinch of cinnamon

Enchilada Sauce

3 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 tsp honey
2 cups chicken broth
1 tsp apple cider vinegar (or distilled white vinegar)

Instructions

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the seasonings and flour until evenly mixed.

Step 2: Create the Base

Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and seasoning mixture, whisking continuously. Cook for about 1 minute, until it reaches the consistency of wet sand.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

Stir in the tomato paste and honey, cooking for another minute to deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, adding it in small splashes while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Simmer and Thicken

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.

Step 6: Finish

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the vinegar. Allow the sauce to cool slightly; it will continue to thicken as it stands.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Goodness: Skip the store-bought versions for a fresher, more flavorful enchilada sauce.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with simple pantry staples.
Customizable: Adjust the heat level and consistency to suit your preference.

Tips

For a smoother sauce, strain it through a fine mesh sieve after cooking.
Stir frequently while simmering to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for extra heat or depth.
Substitute honey with agave syrup or sugar for a different touch of sweetness.

FAQs

Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use this sauce for dishes other than enchiladas?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, or as a flavorful base for soups and stews.

Serving

Use this rich, flavorful enchilada sauce in your favorite enchilada recipes, or drizzle it over rice bowls, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken for an extra kick.

Suggestions

Pair it with homemade tortillas for an unbeatable combination.
Add fresh cilantro and lime juice to the finished sauce for a zesty twist.
Layer it in casseroles or baked pasta dishes for a Mexican-inspired flair.