Description
This easy enchilada sauce recipe brings vibrant, rich flavors with a perfect balance of bold spices and freshness. Made from natural, plant-based ingredients, it is simple to prepare and versatile for enchiladas, tacos, casseroles, and more, adding a flavorful boost to any meal in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chili powder (natural)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (natural)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (natural)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste (natural)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Variations
- A pinch of cayenne pepper for spicy boost
- Fresh chopped cilantro or oregano for herb infusion
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (natural) for smoky sweet flavor
- Diced fire-roasted tomatoes for chunky style
- Natural gelling agent dissolved in water for thicker sauce
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Begin by warming olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. This release of aroma sets the stage for a flavorful sauce.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle chili powder (natural), smoked paprika (natural), ground cumin, garlic powder (natural), and onion powder (natural) into the hot oil. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spices and enhance their natural oils.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in tomato paste (natural) and cook for another minute, letting the paste meld with the spices and oil to deepen its flavor.
- Pour in Vegetable Broth: Slowly whisk in vegetable broth, making sure to dissolve any concentrated paste, creating a smooth sauce base.
- Add Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce and Season: Mix in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), sea salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a low simmer.
- Simmer and Stir: Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to combine the flavors fully.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust salt or spice levels to your preference. Your enchilada sauce is now ready to add unbeatable flavor to your favorite meals!
Notes
- Toast spices briefly in oil to bring out richer, deeper flavors.
- Use fresh or low-sodium vegetable broth for best flavor and controlled saltiness.
- Stir frequently to prevent sauce from sticking to the pan during simmering.
- Adjust consistency by adding more broth to thin or a natural gelling agent for thicker sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze in portioned containers or ice cube trays for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on stove or microwave, stirring occasionally; add a splash of vegetable broth to restore consistency if needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 30
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: enchilada sauce, plant-based sauce, homemade enchilada sauce, gluten free, easy sauce, southwestern sauce
