The bold and spicy flavors of Mexican cuisine have become increasingly popular in recent years, with ancho sauce being one of the most sought-after ingredients. This versatile sauce is made from ancho chilies, which are dried poblano peppers, and can be used in a variety of dishes to add a rich and smoky flavor. In this article, we will explore the history of ancho sauce and provide a simple yet delicious recipe for you to try at home.
Main Ingredients: Ancho, Guajillo, Fresh Tomatoes, Crushed Tomatoes
Making your own homemade enchilada sauce is easier than you think! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful sauce that will take your enchilada recipes to the next level.
2of 20
Red Enchilada Sauce on YouTube!
Main Ingredients: Ancho, Guajillo, Fresh Tomatoes, Crushed Tomatoes
If you're a visual learner, check out this red enchilada sauce recipe on YouTube! You'll see exactly how to make it step-by-step, making it foolproof for even the most novice of chefs.
3of 20
Salsa de Chile Ancho (Chile Ancho Sauce)
Main Ingredients: Ancho, Peppers, Water, Chicken Broth, Mexican Oregano
For a unique twist on traditional enchilada sauce, try making this salsa de chile ancho. The smoky and slightly sweet flavor of the chile ancho peppers will add a whole new dimension to your enchilada dishes.
4of 20
Salsa Borracha
Main Ingredients: Large Tomatillos, Roma Tomatoes, Peppers, Serrano
If you're a fan of a little kick in your enchilada sauce, then this salsa borracha is for you. Made with tequila and beer, this sauce has a unique and bold flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken enchiladas.
5of 20
Red Chili Sauce
Main Ingredients: Ancho, Guajillo Chiles, Water, Garlic, Cloves, Black
For a more traditional enchilada sauce, try this red chili sauce. Made with a blend of chili peppers, tomatoes, and spices, this sauce is bursting with flavor and is perfect for any Mexican-inspired dish.
6of 20
Honey Chipotle Barbecue Sauce
Main Ingredients: Diced Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil, Ketchup, Brown Sugar
If you're a fan of barbecue chicken enchiladas, then this honey chipotle barbecue sauce is a must-try. The combination of sweet and smoky flavors will take your enchilada recipes to the next level.
7of 20
Whats A Substitute For Enchilada Sauce
Main Ingredients: Chile Powder, Ancho, Flour, Chicken Bouillon, Cocoa
Don't have any enchilada sauce on hand? No problem! You can easily substitute it with a few simple ingredients. Try using tomato sauce, chili powder, and cumin for a quick and easy enchilada sauce alternative.
8of 20
Fresh Homemade Salsa For Canning
Main Ingredients: Tomato, Cilantro, Garlic, Sweet Onion, Red Bell Pepper
If you have an abundance of fresh tomatoes and peppers from your garden, why not make a batch of this fresh homemade salsa for canning? It's perfect for adding to enchiladas or simply enjoying with some tortilla chips.
9of 20
Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce
Main Ingredients: Chipotle Pepper, Adobo Sauce, Chicken Stock, Olive Oil
If you're looking for a homemade red enchilada sauce that is quick and easy to make, look no further. This recipe uses tomato sauce, chicken broth, and spices to create a delicious sauce that will elevate any enchilada dish.
10of 20
Quick Enchilada Sauce
Main Ingredients: Diced Tomatoes, Vegetable Broth, Chipotle Pepper, Adobo
Short on time? No problem! This quick enchilada sauce can be made in just 10 minutes. It's perfect for a last-minute enchilada dinner or for those nights when you don't feel like spending hours in the kitchen.
11of 20
Easy Homemade Enchilada Sauce
Main Ingredients: Tomato Sauce, Minced Onion, Oil, Chili Powder, Paprika
For a sauce that is even easier to make, try this easy homemade enchilada sauce. It uses enchilada sauce, chicken broth, and spices for a quick and flavorful sauce that can be used in a variety of Mexican dishes.
12of 20
Mexican Chocolate Almond Butter
Main Ingredients: Almonds, Vegetable Oil, Coconut Sugar, Cocoa Powder
For a unique twist on enchilada sauce, try making this Mexican chocolate almond butter. The combination of chocolate, almond butter, and spices creates a rich and decadent sauce that is perfect for chicken mole enchiladas.
13of 20
The Best Enchilada Sauce
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves, Chicken Broth, Tomato Sauce
Looking for the best enchilada sauce recipe? Look no further! This recipe has been tried and tested and is loved by many. Made with tomatoes, chili powder, and spices, this sauce is perfect for any enchilada dish.
14of 20
The Best Chipotle Mayo (Mexican Secret Sauce)
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, Chipotle Peppers, Adobo Sauce, Cilantro
If you're a fan of chipotle mayo, you'll love this Mexican secret sauce. Made with chipotle peppers, mayonnaise, and spices, this sauce is perfect for adding to enchiladas, tacos, or even as a dip for tortilla chips.
15of 20
Restaurant Style Salsa
Main Ingredients: Roma Tomatoes, Petite Diced Tomatoes, Green Onions, Red
For a salsa that tastes just like the one from your favorite Mexican restaurant, try making this restaurant style salsa. It's made with tomatoes, onion, jalapeno, and cilantro for a fresh and flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with enchiladas.
16of 20
Green Enchilada Sauce
Main Ingredients: Hatch Chiles, Olive Oil, Tomatillos, White Onions
If you're a fan of green enchiladas, then this green enchilada sauce is a must-try. Made with tomatillos, green chilies, and spices, this sauce has a tangy and slightly spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken or vegetable enchiladas.
17of 20
Authentic Red Enchilada Sauce
Main Ingredients: Dried Guajillo Chiles, Dried Ancho Chiles, Arbol Chile
If you're looking to recreate the authentic flavors of Mexico, then this authentic red enchilada sauce is for you. Made with chili peppers, tomatoes, and spices, this sauce is rich and flavorful and will transport you to Mexico with every bite.
18of 20
Homemade Salsa
Main Ingredients: Tomatoes With Juice, Rotel, Chopped Onion, Garlic
For a salsa that is fresh and flavorful, try making your own homemade salsa. It's made with tomatoes, onion, jalapeno, and cilantro for a classic and delicious dip that goes perfectly with enchiladas.
19of 20
Jalapeno Hot Sauce
Main Ingredients: Mexican Oregano, Cumin, Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
If you're a fan of spicy food, then this jalapeno hot sauce is a must-try. Made with jalapeno peppers, garlic, and spices, this sauce is perfect for adding a kick to your enchilada recipes.
20of 20
Pico de Gallo Salsa
Main Ingredients: Tomatoes, Red Onion, Jalapenos, Cilantro, Lime
For a salsa that is fresh and flavorful, try making this pico de gallo salsa. It's made with tomatoes, onion, jalapeno, and cilantro for a classic and delicious dip that goes perfectly with enchiladas.
The Origins of Ancho Sauce
Ancho sauce has a long history dating back to the Aztecs, who were known for their use of chili peppers in their cooking. The ancho chili itself is a staple in Mexican cuisine, and when dried and ground into a powder, it becomes the base for ancho sauce. The word "ancho" actually means "wide" in Spanish, referring to the wide shape of the poblano pepper. This pepper was first cultivated in the Mexican state of Puebla, and its popularity quickly spread throughout the country and beyond.
The Flavor Profile of Ancho Sauce
Ancho sauce is known for its bold and complex flavors, which can vary depending on the specific ingredients used in each recipe. However, the base ingredients typically include dried ancho chilies, garlic, onion, and various herbs and spices. The resulting sauce has a smoky and slightly sweet taste, with a mild to medium level of heat. It is often described as having a "raisin-like" flavor, due to the dried chilies used to make it.
Ways to Use Ancho Sauce
Ancho sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Its smoky and slightly sweet flavor makes it the perfect addition to meat dishes, such as chicken, beef, and pork. It can also be used as a marinade or a dipping sauce for vegetables and seafood. For a vegetarian option, ancho sauce can be added to beans, rice, or even tofu for a burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating ancho sauce into your cooking.
A Simple Ancho Sauce Recipe
Now that you know a bit about the origins and flavor profile of ancho sauce, it's time to try making it for yourself. Here is a simple and delicious recipe that will have you hooked on this Mexican favorite.
Ingredients:
4 dried ancho chilies
1 cup boiling water
2 cloves of garlic
1 small onion, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Remove the stems and seeds from the ancho chilies and place them in a bowl. Pour boiling water over them and let them soak for 30 minutes.
Drain the chilies and place them in a blender or food processor. Add the garlic, onion, oregano, cumin, and salt.
Blend until smooth, slowly adding the olive oil while the blender is running.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
In Conclusion
Ancho sauce is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can add a bold and smoky flavor to any dish. Its history and flavor profile make it a staple in Mexican cuisine, and now you can easily make it at home with this simple recipe. So next time you're craving some bold and spicy flavors, give ancho sauce a try and see what all the hype is about.