Sauce for enchiladas

Enchilada sauce – a simple and flavorful recipe

In every culinary culture, sauces play an essential role, having the power to transform an ordinary dish into an unforgettable experience. Enchilada sauce is a perfect example: a combination of rich flavors that blends sweet and spicy in a way that will delight your taste buds. This free and easy-to-make recipe is ideal for adding a touch of flavor to any meal.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 30 grams flour
- 400 grams canned tomatoes (about 1 can)
- 500 ml passata (pureed tomato sauce)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heating the oil: Start by heating the oil in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Choose a good quality oil, such as olive oil or sunflower oil, which adds flavor and helps caramelize the ingredients.

2. Adding the flour: When the oil is hot, add the flour. Using a whisk, mix well for about 1 minute. This will form a roux, which will give your sauce thickness. Be careful not to burn it, as a burnt roux can affect the final taste.

3. Incorporating wet ingredients: Add the canned tomatoes, passata, chili powder, oregano, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Simmering the sauce: Add one cup of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and the flavors will intensify.

5. Seasoning: Finally, taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as desired. If you like a spicier sauce, you can add more chili powder.

Storing the sauce: Enchilada sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It’s perfect for use in various dishes, giving them a special touch.

Helpful tips:
- Types of tomatoes: If you have fresh seasonal tomatoes, you can use them instead of canned tomatoes. It’s a delicious option, but it will require additional cooking to reach the desired consistency.
- Adjusting spices: Everyone has different tastes, so feel free to adjust the amounts of spices according to your preferences. You can also add other spices like paprika or cinnamon for a personal twist.
- Using the sauce: This sauce is ideal for use in dishes like enchiladas, tacos, or even as a pizza sauce. It can also be served as a dip alongside tortilla chips.

Possible variations:
- Green enchilada sauce: Instead of tomatoes, you can use green tomatoes or roasted green peppers to create a spicier and lighter sauce.
- Cheese sauce: Add cheddar cheese or feta cheese to the final sauce for a creamy texture and rich flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This sauce contains tomatoes, which are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and vitamins C and K. Additionally, the spices used provide extra benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of spices?
Of course! You can experiment with different spices like paprika, coriander, or even hot sauces to customize the sauce to your taste.

2. How can I make the sauce lighter?
If you prefer a less thick sauce, you can add more water or vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.

3. What can I do with leftover sauce?
This sauce is versatile and can be used to drizzle over pasta, as a base for soups, or even as a filling for other dishes.

In conclusion, enchilada sauce is an essential element in your kitchen, bringing rich flavors and diverse culinary possibilities. So don’t hesitate to prepare it and enjoy the delights it can offer! Whether you use it for a quick dinner or to impress friends at a party, this sauce will surely become a favorite. Enjoy your meal!