Quick Answer
Yes, there are several substitutes that can be used in place of traditional enchilada sauce. Some popular options include chili sauce or ketchup mixed with chili powder, tomatillo salsa, mole sauce, blended tomatoes and chilies, and homemade red enchilada sauce. The best substitute will depend on the specific flavor profile and ingredients you want in your enchilada sauce.
Substitutes to Consider
Here are some common substitutes for enchilada sauce and how they can be used:
Chili Sauce or Ketchup with Chili Powder
This is one of the quickest and easiest substitutes for enchilada sauce. Simply combine:
| 1 cup chili sauce or ketchup |
| 2-3 tablespoons chili powder |
| 1/4 teaspoon cumin |
| Salt and pepper to taste |
Mix well and add to your enchiladas as you would regular enchilada sauce. The ketchup or chili sauce provides thickness and tomato flavor, while the spices give it that classic chili taste.
Tomatillo Salsa
Pre-made tomatillo salsa is another good stand-in for enchilada sauce. Look for salsa made with roasted tomatillos, chilies, garlic, onion, and cilantro. The tart, tangy flavor of tomatillos gives a similar flavor profile to traditional red enchilada sauce. Thin it out with a little water or chicken broth if needed to get a pourable consistency.
Mole Sauce
Mole sauce makes a unique, flavorful substitute for enchilada sauce and is popular in Oaxacan cuisine. It contains over 20 ingredients, including chili peppers, cinnamon, chocolate, seeds, and spices. The complex sweet and savory flavors pair wonderfully with chicken, cheese, or vegetable enchiladas. Purchase mole sauce pre-made or try making your own.
Blended Tomatoes and Chilies
For a quick homemade enchilada sauce, blend together:
| 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce |
| 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes |
| 1-2 chilies like ancho, guajillo or chipotle, stems removed |
| 1 tablespoon chili powder |
| 2 garlic cloves |
| 1/2 onion, chopped |
| 2 teaspoons cumin |
| Salt and pepper to taste |
This produces a smooth, full-flavored red enchilada sauce quickly with pantry staples. Adjust chili peppers to your desired spice level.
Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce
Make an authentic red enchilada sauce from scratch by simmering:
| 2 tablespoons oil |
| 1 onion, chopped |
| 3 garlic cloves, minced |
| 2 tablespoons flour |
| 2 tablespoons chili powder |
| 1 teaspoon oregano |
| 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce |
| 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth |
| Salt and pepper to taste |
Cook the onion and garlic in oil until soft. Stir in flour and spices. Whisk in tomato sauce and broth. Simmer 20 minutes until thickened. Season to taste. This makes an easy homemade enchilada sauce.
Tips for Using Enchilada Sauce Substitutes
When using a substitute sauce, keep these tips in mind:
– Start with a small amount of the sauce and add more to taste. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
– If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a little broth, water, or milk to get an easily pourable consistency.
– Adjust spices to your liking. Add more chili powder or cayenne if you want more heat.
– To enhance flavor, stir in extra garlic, cumin, oregano, coriander or a dash of vinegar.
– Mix in fresh chopped cilantro just before serving for bright, aromatic flavor.
– Allow flavors to meld by making the sauce in advance and refrigerating overnight, if possible.
– If the sauce seems too thin after baking the enchiladas, you can thicken it by whisking in a teaspoon of flour.
What to Avoid in an Enchilada Sauce Substitute
There are a few ingredients that are not recommended for enchilada sauce:
– Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce – This will give an unpleasant salty, tangy flavor.
– Barbecue sauce – The smoky flavor will clash with Mexican spices.
– Alfredo sauce – Too heavy and creamy for enchiladas.
– Brown gravy – Not the right flavor profile and will make enchiladas taste muddled.
– Mustard – Will be too tangy and strong tasting.
– Mayonnaise or sour cream – Too rich and creamy for enchiladas.
The best subs for enchilada sauce will have a tomato, chili or tomatillo flavor base complemented by the right Mexican-style seasonings.
Conclusion
Enchilada sauce can be replaced with various store-bought and homemade substitutes if you’re in a pinch. Tomato-based sauces like chili sauce, salsa, and blended fresh tomatoes make easy swaps. For more authentic, from-scratch flavor, a homemade enchilada sauce using chili powders and broth is best. With the right spices and seasoning, these substitutes can give you very close to the taste of true enchilada sauce. Next time a recipe calls for enchilada sauce and you don’t have any on hand, try one of these tasty alternatives to save your dish.