Easy Enchilada Sauce: A Budget-Friendly Delight from Budget Bytes

Hey there, readers!

Are you yearning for the tantalizing flavors of enchiladas without breaking the bank? Look no further than this ultimate guide to crafting an irresistible and budget-conscious enchilada sauce inspired by the iconic Budget Bytes blog. Get ready to elevate your Mexican-inspired feasts to new heights with this simple yet extraordinary recipe.

The Perks of a Homemade Enchilada Sauce

Flavor Customization:

Indulge in the freedom to tailor the sauce to your palate’s desires. Want a touch of heat? Add some chili powder. Craving a hint of sweetness? Stir in a dash of honey. The possibilities are endless!

Budget-Friendly:

Enchilada sauce from scratch is surprisingly easy on the wallet. With pantry staples and affordable ingredients, you can whip up a large batch for a fraction of the cost of store-bought versions.

The Art of Enchilada Sauce-Making

Ingredients and Equipment:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12-inch skillet
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute or two.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Gradually whisk in the broth until smooth.
7. Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until thickened.

Enhancing Your Enchilada Sauce

Spice It Up:

Ignite your taste buds with a fiery kick by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

Add Some Sweetness:

Balance the flavors with a touch of sweetness. Stir in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to create a harmonious symphony.

Get Cheesy:

Transform your sauce into a creamy delight by whisking in a handful of grated cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.

Enchilada Sauce Breakdown

Conclusion

With this easy enchilada sauce recipe from Budget Bytes, you can effortlessly create a flavorful and affordable foundation for your Mexican culinary adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned enchilada enthusiast or just starting your journey into homemade sauces, this guide will empower you to master the art of crafting this budget-friendly and delectable dish.

So, go ahead and experiment, customize, and elevate your enchiladas to tantalizing new heights. Explore other Budget Bytes recipes for more budget-savvy cooking inspiration and leave a comment below if you have any questions or additional sauce-making tips to share!

FAQ about Easy Enchilada Sauce Budget Bytes

What ingredients do I need to make easy enchilada sauce?

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How do I make easy enchilada sauce?

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, or until the mixture is bubbly.
3. Whisk in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until it has thickened.
6. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

Add more chicken or vegetable broth until the sauce is the desired consistency.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?

Cook the sauce for a few more minutes, or until it has thickened. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken the sauce.

How long will easy enchilada sauce keep in the refrigerator?

Easy enchilada sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze easy enchilada sauce?

Yes, you can freeze easy enchilada sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight before using.

What are some ways to use easy enchilada sauce?

Easy enchilada sauce can be used to make enchiladas, burritos, tacos, and other Mexican dishes. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for chips.

What are some tips for making the best easy enchilada sauce?

• Use high-quality ingredients.
• Don’t skip the step of browning the flour. This will give the sauce a richer flavor.
• Cook the sauce over medium heat. This will prevent the sauce from burning.
• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

Is easy enchilada sauce gluten-free?

Yes, easy enchilada sauce is gluten-free.

Is easy enchilada sauce vegan?

No, easy enchilada sauce is not vegan because it contains chicken or vegetable broth. To make a vegan version of the sauce, use vegetable broth and omit the cheese.