Authentic Red Chili Sauce for Enchiladas

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Rehydrate the Chili Pods

1. Remove the stems and seeds from the dried chili pods.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil, then add the chili pods.
3. Boil for 30 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Blend the Garlic Mixture

1. In a blender, combine:
   • 3 garlic cloves
   • 1 cup of the chili cooking liquid
   • Cumin, bouillon, and salt
2. Blend until smooth, then pour into a large bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Blend the Chili Pods

1. Working in batches, blend the softened chili pods with 1 ½ cups of the cooking liquid.
2. Blend for 2+ minutes until very smooth. (Add more liquid if needed.)
3. Strain the blended chili sauce into the bowl with the garlic mixture using a fine-mesh sieve.
4. Press out as much liquid as possible to extract all the rich flavor.

Step 4: Simmer & Final Touch

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the strained chili sauce and let it simmer for 15 minutes. (This step prevents separation and enhances flavor.)
3. Remove from heat, let cool, and store in glass jars.

Storage & Shelf Life

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight glass jars for up to 3 months.
• Freezing: Freeze in small portions for up to 6 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

🔥 For Enchiladas: Pour over tortillas, fill with cheese or shredded chicken, and bake!
🌮 As a Taco Sauce: Drizzle over carne asada or carnitas tacos.
🍳 For Huevos Rancheros: Spoon over fried eggs on corn tortillas.
🥣 For Chili Colorado: Use as a base for slow-cooked beef chili.
🫕 As a Dip: Serve with chips or queso for a smoky kick!

Tips for the Best Chili Sauce

✔ Adjust Heat Level – Use Guajillo for mild, Ancho for medium, Arbol for hot.
✔ For Thicker Sauce – Simmer longer or add a bit of cornstarch slurry.
✔ For a Smokier Flavor – Roast the dried chilis before boiling.
✔ Make it Vegan – Swap chicken bouillon for vegetable bouillon.

Nutrition Information (Per Tablespoon)

• Calories: 15 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 0.5g
• Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 100mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this sauce milder?

Yes! Use Guajillo chilis for a mild, slightly sweet taste.

2. What if I don’t have a strainer?

Blend the sauce longer and let it sit—then pour off any excess liquid.

3. Can I make this without oil?

Yes! Use vegetable broth instead for an oil-free version.

4. Can I use this sauce in pasta?

Absolutely! Try mixing with alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.

5. Does this sauce get spicier over time?

Yes, flavors intensify after 24 hours—adjust spices accordingly.

Authentic Red Chili Sauce for Enchiladas

A bold, smoky red chili sauce perfect for enchiladas, tacos, and chilaquiles.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 minute min

Course Condiment, souce

Cuisine Mexican

Calories 15 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender
• Strainer
• Large pan

Ingredients

  

• 30 dried red chili pods mild, medium, or hot
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp chicken bouillon or vegetable bouillon
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp oil

Instructions

 

• Remove stems and seeds from chili pods.
• Boil in water for 30 minutes, then let cool.
• Blend garlic, 1 cup cooking liquid, cumin, bouillon, and salt.
• Blend chili pods with 1 ½ cups liquid.
• Strain into the garlic mixture, pressing out liquid.
• Simmer with oil for 15 minutes.
• Store in glass jars for up to 3 months.

Keyword Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free Friendly, Vegan

🔥 Try this Authentic Red Chili Sauce and transform your dishes with bold, smoky flavor! 🌮🔥