Are you ready to elevate your enchiladas from good to unforgettable? Then look no further! This recipe unlocks the secrets to a truly authentic Las Palmas-style enchilada sauce – a vibrant, flavorful sauce that's surprisingly easy to make at home. Forget those jarred sauces; this homemade version offers a depth of flavor that's simply unmatched. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe provides a delicious and satisfying culinary journey. Let's get started on this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavor
This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of enchilada sauce, perfect for a family-sized batch of enchiladas. Feel free to double or halve it depending on your needs.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies (like Ortega), undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Culinary Magic
This simple, healthy meal comes together effortlessly. Here's how to create your delicious enchilada sauce:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Flavor Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced green chilies, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well to combine.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. This slow cooking process is key to developing a deep, complex taste. For an even more intense flavor, try simmering for 30-45 minutes.
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Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the sauce to your desired consistency. Leaving some texture adds a nice rustic touch.
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Taste and Adjust: Before using, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more cayenne pepper for extra heat, salt for more savoriness, or a touch of sugar to balance the acidity.
Tips and Tricks for Enchilada Sauce Success
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach your desired heat level.
- Fresh Ingredients: While canned tomatoes are convenient, using fresh tomatoes will give the sauce an even brighter flavor.
- Homemade Spice Blends: For a truly customized flavor, create your own blend of spices. Experiment with different combinations of chili powders, chipotle peppers, or ancho chili powder.
- Make it Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage.
Delicious Variations: Beyond the Basics
- Chicken Enchilada Sauce: Add cooked and shredded chicken to the sauce during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Beef Enchilada Sauce: Similarly, incorporate cooked and crumbled ground beef for a hearty twist.
- Vegetarian Enchilada Sauce: Keep it vegetarian by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms during the sautéing stage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is based on a 2-cup recipe and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used:
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: Approximately 4-6g
- Protein: Approximately 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-18g
This easy recipe offers a fantastic foundation for countless delicious enchilada creations. Enjoy the simple homemade cooking process and the satisfying results! Happy cooking!