Enchiladas, those delicious rolled tortillas smothered in sauce and cheese, are a staple of Mexican cuisine. While making enchilada sauce from scratch can be rewarding, it’s also time-consuming. That’s where canned enchilada sauce comes in. But does this convenient pantry staple measure up to the homemade version? Is it good enchilada sauce? Let’s explore the world of canned enchilada sauce, examining its ingredients, flavors, uses, and some popular brands.
What’s in Canned Enchilada Sauce? Understanding the Ingredients
Understanding what goes into canned enchilada sauce is the first step in determining its quality and flavor. While recipes vary between brands, some core ingredients are almost always present.
Generally, you’ll find a base of chili powder, which provides the foundational flavor and color. Different types of chili powder, such as ancho, guajillo, or New Mexico, contribute unique nuances.
Tomato puree or tomato paste adds body and sweetness. The quality of the tomatoes used significantly impacts the overall flavor of the sauce.
Vegetable oil, often soybean or canola oil, helps create a smooth texture and carries the flavors of the spices.
Onions, garlic, and sometimes other vegetables like bell peppers are typically included for depth of flavor. These are often dehydrated or powdered.
Spices beyond chili powder, such as cumin, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper, are essential for a well-rounded flavor profile.
Thickeners like cornstarch or modified food starch are used to achieve the desired consistency. These ensure the sauce clings nicely to the enchiladas.
Vinegar provides a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the other ingredients.
Salt and sugar are added to enhance the flavors and achieve a palatable balance.
Preservatives such as citric acid or sodium benzoate help extend the shelf life of the canned sauce.
Red vs. Green: Two Distinct Flavors
Canned enchilada sauce comes in two primary varieties: red and green. The difference lies primarily in the type of chili used.
Red enchilada sauce is typically made with dried red chilies like ancho, New Mexico, or California chilies. This gives it a rich, earthy, and slightly sweet flavor. The color is a deep, vibrant red.
Green enchilada sauce, on the other hand, is made with green chilies like poblano or Anaheim. This results in a brighter, tangier, and often spicier flavor. The color is a vibrant green.
Choosing between red and green enchilada sauce is largely a matter of personal preference. Red sauce is often considered more traditional, while green sauce offers a bolder, more vibrant flavor.
The Flavor Profile: What to Expect from Canned Enchilada Sauce
Canned enchilada sauce, while convenient, can sometimes lack the complexity and depth of flavor found in homemade versions. Understanding the common flavor characteristics can help you choose a brand that suits your taste.
A good canned enchilada sauce should have a noticeable chili flavor, but it shouldn’t be overpowering. The chili flavor should be well-balanced with other spices.
Tomato notes are usually present, but they shouldn’t be too dominant. The tomato should complement the chili and spices.
Many canned sauces have a subtle sweetness from the tomatoes and added sugar. This sweetness should be balanced by acidity and spice.
A touch of heat is desirable, but the level of spiciness varies greatly between brands. Some are mild, while others pack a significant punch.
Canned sauces often have an earthy undertone from the dried chilies and spices. This adds depth and complexity to the flavor.
Sometimes, canned enchilada sauce can have a slightly metallic or processed flavor, which is a common drawback of canned goods. Higher-quality brands tend to minimize this.
Adjusting the Flavor of Canned Sauce
If you find the flavor of canned enchilada sauce lacking, don’t despair! There are several ways to enhance it.
Sautéing the sauce in a pan with onions and garlic before using it can add depth of flavor.
Adding a pinch of cumin, oregano, or chili powder can boost the existing spice profile.
A squeeze of lime juice or a splash of vinegar can brighten the flavor and add acidity.
Stirring in a spoonful of tomato paste can intensify the tomato flavor and add richness.
Adding a chopped fresh chili pepper can increase the heat level.
Using Canned Enchilada Sauce: Beyond Enchiladas
While enchiladas are the most obvious use for canned enchilada sauce, its versatility extends far beyond this classic dish.
Use it as a base for soups and stews. It adds depth of flavor and a subtle kick to chili, tortilla soup, or even a simple vegetable stew.
Simmer chicken or pork in enchilada sauce for flavorful tacos or burritos. The sauce tenderizes the meat and infuses it with delicious flavors.
Drizzle it over eggs for a quick and easy breakfast. It adds a Southwestern twist to scrambled eggs, omelets, or huevos rancheros.
Use it as a sauce for casseroles. It adds moisture and flavor to dishes like chicken enchilada casserole or Mexican lasagna.
Add it to ground beef for flavorful taco meat. It’s a quick and easy way to enhance the flavor of your tacos.
Use it as a marinade for chicken or steak. The sauce tenderizes the meat and infuses it with a delicious smoky flavor.
Drizzle it over nachos for an extra layer of flavor. It adds moisture and spice to your favorite nacho toppings.
Popular Brands of Canned Enchilada Sauce: A Comparison
With so many brands of canned enchilada sauce on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here’s a comparison of some popular brands:
- Old El Paso: A widely available brand known for its mild flavor and affordability. It’s a good option for those who prefer a less spicy sauce.
- Las Palmas: Another popular brand, Las Palmas offers a slightly spicier flavor than Old El Paso. It’s a good middle-ground option for those who want a little heat.
- Rosarita: Rosarita is known for its thicker consistency and richer flavor. It’s a good option for those who prefer a more robust sauce.
- 365 Everyday Value (Whole Foods): This brand offers a more natural option with fewer additives. It’s a good choice for those who are health-conscious.
- Hatch: Hatch enchilada sauce is known for using authentic Hatch chilies from New Mexico. This gives it a unique and flavorful taste.
- Siete Family Foods: A grain-free and gluten-free option that uses avocado oil and is paleo-friendly.
Taste Testing and Reviews
Reading reviews and conducting your own taste tests can help you find the best canned enchilada sauce for your palate.
Consider factors like the level of spiciness, the balance of flavors, the consistency, and the presence of any metallic or artificial aftertaste.
Experiment with different brands and varieties to discover your personal favorite.
The Verdict: Is Canned Enchilada Sauce Good?
The answer is a qualified yes. Canned enchilada sauce can be a good option, especially when time is short or you’re looking for convenience. However, the quality and flavor vary significantly between brands. Some canned sauces are bland and lack depth, while others are surprisingly flavorful and complex.
Choosing a higher-quality brand and adjusting the flavor to your liking can make all the difference. With a little experimentation, you can find a canned enchilada sauce that rivals the flavor of homemade.
Ultimately, whether canned enchilada sauce is “good” depends on your individual taste preferences and expectations. But for a quick and easy way to add flavor to your Mexican dishes, it’s a convenient and often satisfying option.
Is canned enchilada sauce a good substitute for homemade?
Canned enchilada sauce offers a convenient and quick alternative to making enchilada sauce from scratch. It saves significant time and effort, especially for busy weeknight meals. Many canned versions boast surprisingly good flavor profiles, incorporating a blend of chili powders, spices, and tomato bases that closely mimic the taste of homemade sauce. However, it’s important to remember that the flavor profile can differ from brand to brand, so experimentation might be needed to find your preferred type.
While canned sauce provides convenience, it often lacks the freshness and nuanced flavors of a truly homemade enchilada sauce. Homemade allows for complete control over ingredients and spice levels, catering specifically to individual tastes. If you’re looking for the most authentic and personalized flavor, dedicating time to crafting your own sauce is highly recommended. However, for a quick and satisfactory meal, canned enchilada sauce remains a viable option.
What are the different flavor profiles of canned enchilada sauce?
Canned enchilada sauce primarily falls into three distinct flavor categories: mild, medium, and hot. Mild enchilada sauce is characterized by a subtle chili flavor with minimal heat, making it ideal for those sensitive to spice or cooking for children. Medium enchilada sauce provides a more pronounced chili flavor with a moderate level of heat, offering a balanced taste that appeals to a wider range of palates. Hot enchilada sauce delivers a significant kick, featuring a bold chili flavor and a substantial level of spiciness for those who enjoy a fiery culinary experience.
Beyond the heat levels, the underlying flavor profiles can also vary significantly. Some brands emphasize a smoky flavor, achieved through the use of smoked paprika or chipotle peppers. Others focus on a brighter, more tomato-forward taste, while still others incorporate earthy notes with the addition of spices like cumin and oregano. Reading the ingredient list and trying different brands is the best way to discover your preferred flavor profile.
What are the best ways to use canned enchilada sauce?
The most common and obvious use for canned enchilada sauce is, of course, in making enchiladas. Simply dip tortillas in the sauce, fill them with your choice of protein and cheese, roll them up, and bake in a dish covered with more sauce and cheese. However, its versatility extends far beyond this classic dish. It can be used as a flavorful simmering sauce for chicken, beef, or vegetables, adding a Southwestern twist to stews and braises.
Canned enchilada sauce can also be used to create quick and easy dips. Mix it with cream cheese, sour cream, or guacamole for a delicious appetizer served with tortilla chips or vegetables. It can even be used as a flavorful base for soups and chili, adding depth and complexity to the overall taste. Consider using it as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables to impart a rich and spicy flavor.
What are some of the best canned enchilada sauce brands?
Several brands consistently receive high praise for their quality and flavor. Old El Paso offers a widely available and affordable option that provides a balanced flavor suitable for general use. Las Palmas is known for its authentic Mexican-inspired flavor and is often favored by those seeking a more traditional taste. Hatch enchilada sauce utilizes Hatch chiles, renowned for their unique flavor profile, resulting in a distinctive and highly regarded sauce.
For those seeking organic options, Amy’s Kitchen provides a vegetarian and organic enchilada sauce with a focus on natural ingredients. 365 by Whole Foods Market also offers an organic option, providing a comparable alternative. Ultimately, the best brand depends on individual taste preferences. Reading reviews and trying a variety of brands is recommended to find the one that best suits your needs.
Can I adjust the flavor of canned enchilada sauce?
Absolutely! One of the advantages of using canned enchilada sauce is the ability to customize it to your specific taste preferences. If you find the sauce too mild, you can easily add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a few drops of hot sauce to increase the heat. Smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor, while cumin adds a more earthy dimension. A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the overall flavor.
To enrich the sauce further, consider sautéing onions, garlic, and peppers before adding the canned sauce. This creates a deeper and more complex flavor base. Adding a tablespoon of tomato paste can also intensify the tomato flavor and thicken the sauce. Experimenting with different herbs and spices will help you tailor the canned enchilada sauce to your liking and create a more personalized taste.
How should I store canned enchilada sauce?
An unopened can of enchilada sauce should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. A pantry or cupboard is typically ideal. Check the expiration date on the can to ensure its freshness and use it before that date. This will help maintain the quality and flavor of the sauce.
Once opened, canned enchilada sauce must be refrigerated promptly. Transfer the remaining sauce to an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing odors from the refrigerator. It is generally recommended to use the opened sauce within 5-7 days for optimal flavor and quality. Discard any sauce that shows signs of spoilage, such as an unusual odor or discoloration.
Is canned enchilada sauce gluten-free?
Whether or not a specific canned enchilada sauce is gluten-free depends on the ingredients used by the manufacturer. Many brands use cornstarch as a thickener, which is naturally gluten-free. However, some brands may include wheat flour or other gluten-containing ingredients. This is often done to achieve a specific texture or flavor profile.
Therefore, it is crucial to carefully read the ingredient list and look for a “gluten-free” label on the can. Brands that are certified gluten-free undergo testing to ensure that their products meet strict standards. If you are unsure, it is best to contact the manufacturer directly to confirm the gluten-free status of their enchilada sauce.