Are you in the middle of cooking a Mexican-inspired dish, only to realize you’re out of enchilada sauce? Don’t worry, it’s not the end of the world. There are plenty of alternatives and DIY recipes you can use as a substitute for enchilada sauce. In this article, we’ll explore the different options available, including store-bought alternatives, homemade recipes, and creative hacks.
Store-Bought Alternatives to Enchilada Sauce
If you’re short on time or not feeling like cooking from scratch, there are several store-bought alternatives to enchilada sauce you can use. Here are a few options:
Salsa Roja or Red Sauce
Salsa Roja, also known as red sauce, is a common substitute for enchilada sauce. It’s made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, and has a similar consistency and flavor profile to enchilada sauce. You can find salsa Roja in most supermarkets, usually in the international or Mexican food section.
Pico de Gallo
Pico de Gallo is a fresh, uncooked salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice. While it’s not as thick as enchilada sauce, it has a similar flavor profile and can be used as a substitute in a pinch. Simply cook it down for a few minutes to thicken it up.
Taco Sauce
Taco sauce is another store-bought alternative to enchilada sauce. It’s usually thinner and more acidic than enchilada sauce, but can still be used as a substitute. Look for a taco sauce that’s low in sugar and made with wholesome ingredients.
Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipes
If you have a little more time on your hands, making your own enchilada sauce from scratch is a great option. Here are a few recipes you can try:
Simple Enchilada Sauce Recipe
This recipe makes about 2 cups of enchilada sauce, which you can store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Roasted Tomato Enchilada Sauce Recipe
This recipe makes about 2 cups of enchilada sauce, which you can store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chopped tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, onion, oregano, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Creative Hacks for Making Enchilada Sauce
If you’re in a pinch and don’t have any of the ingredients for the above recipes, here are a few creative hacks you can use to make a substitute for enchilada sauce:
Use Canned Crushed Tomatoes and Spices
Mix together canned crushed tomatoes, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and paprika for a quick and easy enchilada sauce substitute.
Make a Sauce with Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce have a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with enchiladas. Simply blend together chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, and chicken or vegetable broth for a spicy and flavorful enchilada sauce substitute.
Use Salsa Verde as a Substitute
Salsa Verde, also known as green sauce, is a tangy and herby sauce made from tomatillos, jalapeños, garlic, and cilantro. It has a similar consistency to enchilada sauce and can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of alternatives and DIY recipes you can use if you don’t have enchilada sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or want to make a homemade sauce from scratch, there’s an option for everyone. So next time you’re cooking up a Mexican-inspired dish, don’t worry if you’re out of enchilada sauce – just get creative and make your own!
| Alternative | Description |
|---|---|
| Salsa Roja | A common substitute for enchilada sauce, made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. |
| Pico de Gallo | A fresh, uncooked salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice. |
| Taco Sauce | A thinner and more acidic alternative to enchilada sauce, made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. |
By following these tips and recipes, you’ll be able to make delicious and authentic-tasting enchiladas without enchilada sauce. So go ahead, get creative, and happy cooking!
What can I use as a substitute for enchilada sauce in a recipe?
You can use various alternatives as a substitute for enchilada sauce in a recipe, depending on the desired flavor and texture. Some popular options include salsa, tomato sauce, and a mixture of diced tomatoes and spices. If you want a creamier sauce, you can try using sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with some diced tomatoes and spices.
When substituting enchilada sauce, keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may be slightly different. You can adjust the amount of spices and seasonings to taste, and add other ingredients to enhance the flavor. For example, you can add some cumin, chili powder, or paprika to give it a more authentic Mexican flavor.
How do I make a simple DIY enchilada sauce from scratch?
To make a simple DIY enchilada sauce from scratch, you will need some basic ingredients such as diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in a pan until they are softened, then add the diced tomatoes and spices. Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
You can customize the flavor of your DIY enchilada sauce by adding other ingredients such as chipotle peppers, cumin, or oregano. You can also use different types of tomatoes, such as crushed or fire-roasted tomatoes, to give it a unique flavor. Once the sauce is ready, you can use it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for later use.
What is the difference between enchilada sauce and salsa?
Enchilada sauce and salsa are both popular Mexican condiments, but they have some key differences. Enchilada sauce is typically thicker and more sauce-like, with a richer flavor profile that is designed to coat and flavor tortillas and other ingredients. Salsa, on the other hand, is thinner and more chunky, with a brighter, fresher flavor that is often used as a dip or topping.
While both enchilada sauce and salsa can be used in similar dishes, they are not interchangeable. Enchilada sauce is usually used as a sauce or gravy, while salsa is often used as a topping or mixed into other ingredients. However, you can use salsa as a substitute for enchilada sauce in a pinch, or vice versa, with some adjustments to the recipe.
Can I use store-bought salsa as a substitute for enchilada sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought salsa as a substitute for enchilada sauce in a recipe, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different. Store-bought salsa is often thinner and more acidic than enchilada sauce, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe and add some spices or seasonings to taste.
To use store-bought salsa as a substitute for enchilada sauce, try mixing it with some tomato paste or diced tomatoes to thicken it up. You can also add some cumin, chili powder, or oregano to give it a more authentic Mexican flavor. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, as store-bought salsa can be quite strong.
How do I make a spicy enchilada sauce from scratch?
To make a spicy enchilada sauce from scratch, you can add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the sauce while it’s simmering. You can also add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give it an extra kick. Start with a small amount of heat and adjust to taste, as the sauce can quickly become too spicy.
Another way to make a spicy enchilada sauce is to use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. These smoked jalapenos have a rich, smoky flavor that adds depth and heat to the sauce. Simply add the chipotle peppers and adobo sauce to the sauce while it’s simmering, and adjust the heat level to taste.
Can I make enchilada sauce ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, you can make enchilada sauce ahead of time and freeze it for later use. In fact, making a big batch of enchilada sauce and freezing it can be a convenient way to have a stash of sauce on hand for future meals. Simply let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer.
When you’re ready to use the frozen enchilada sauce, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or thaw it quickly by submerging the container in cold water. Reheat the sauce gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through and ready to use.