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Red Enchilada Sauce

A rich, smoky, and slightly spicy sauce that elevates enchiladas, tacos, and more, perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Condiments, Sauces
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 80

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • 6 pieces dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded Can substitute with other dried chiles if needed.
  • 4 pieces dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded Can substitute with other dried chiles if needed.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth Adjust amount for desired consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the dried ancho and guajillo chiles under cold water. Remove the stems and seeds, then place them in a saucepan with enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat and let the chiles soak for about 15 minutes, or until they are soft.
  2. In a separate large skillet, add a drizzle of vegetable oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Once the chiles are soft, drain them and add them to a blender along with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth, and add ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  4. Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet. Simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  5. Your Red Enchilada Sauce is ready to use! Drizzle it over tortillas filled with your favorite ingredients, or use it as a base for numerous dishes.

Notes

For a deeper flavor, roast the dried chiles before soaking. Store the sauce in airtight containers; it keeps in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for three months.