Canned enchilada sauce is a popular ingredient used in many households for making enchiladas, tacos, and other Mexican dishes. While it can offer convenience and speed in the kitchen, many people wonder if they need to add anything to the canned sauce to enhance the flavor or make it more authentic.
Some cooks may feel that the canned sauce lacks a certain depth of flavor or may be too sweet or salty for their taste. Others may prefer a spicier sauce or want to customize the flavor to suit their preferences. So, the question remains – do you add anything to canned enchilada sauce? In this article, we will explore different options and tips that can help elevate the flavor of canned enchilada sauce and make it your own.
The basics of canned enchilada sauce
Canned enchilada sauce is a pantry staple for many home cooks looking to add a quick burst of flavor to their meals. This sauce is typically made from a combination of tomatoes, chili peppers, spices, and other seasonings. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different Mexican-inspired dishes, like enchiladas, tacos, burritos, and more.
The great thing about canned enchilada sauce is that it’s already seasoned and ready to use straight out of the can. However, some individuals may choose to add additional ingredients to enhance the flavor or customize it to their liking. Some common additions include diced onions, garlic, jalapeños, and cilantro. Whether you choose to use it straight from the can or add your own personal touch, canned enchilada sauce is a convenient and flavorful addition to any recipe.
Why people prefer to add ingredients to canned enchilada sauce
Many people prefer adding ingredients to their canned enchilada sauce to give it a personal touch and improve its overall taste. While store-bought sauces can be convenient, they are often lacking in flavor and depth. By adding fresh ingredients such as onions, garlic, and spices, one can easily elevate canned sauces to a whole new level.
Another reason why people prefer to add ingredients to their sauce is that it allows them to customize the flavor to their liking. Some may prefer their sauce to be spicier, while others may want it to be sweeter or tangier. Adding ingredients such as chipotle peppers, honey, or lime juice can help create a sauce that perfectly suits one’s individual preferences. In summary, adding ingredients to canned enchilada sauce not only enhances its flavor but also allows for customization to create a unique and personalized experience.
Top 5 ingredients to enhance the flavor of canned enchilada sauce
Although canned enchilada sauces are readily available in most supermarkets, they can taste pretty bland and lack the punch that comes with homemade sauces. So, if you are looking to enhance its flavor, here are the top 5 ingredients that you can add.
1. Cumin: Adding cumin powder is an excellent way to give your canned enchilada sauce a more authentic Mexican flavor. It is widely used in Mexican cuisine and works fantastically well with enchilada sauce.
2. Garlic: Garlic has been a go-to ingredient for millions of people to make store-brought sauces more flavorful. It adds a robust and complex flavor to the sauce and makes it more appealing.
3. Chili Powder: For that extra spicy kick, try adding chili powder to your canned enchilada sauce. It will create a more vibrant flavor profile and give it that little bit of heat that you are looking for.
4. Oregano: Oregano gives your canned enchilada sauce a subtle yet pleasing herby flavor. It is one of the quintessential ingredients of Mexican cuisine and can take your canned sauce to the next level.
5. Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky and earthy flavor to your canned enchilada sauce. It transforms your sauce and makes it taste like homemade in just a few small steps.
How to add the ingredients to canned enchilada sauce for best results
Adding extra ingredients to canned enchilada sauce is a great way to enhance its flavor and customize it to your liking. Here are some tips on how to add ingredients to your canned enchilada sauce for maximum results.
Firstly, start by heating up the canned sauce in a small saucepan on medium heat. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low and add in your chosen ingredients slowly. It’s best to add things like spices, herbs, and aromatics first and let them simmer in the sauce for a few minutes. Next, you can add vegetables, such as onions, peppers, and corn, and let them cook in the sauce until they’re tender. Lastly, if you’re adding meat, it’s best to brown it separately first, then add it to the sauce and let it simmer for a few more minutes. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a flavorful enchilada sauce that’s perfect for your taste buds.
Quick and easy recipes using canned enchilada sauce with added ingredients
Adding ingredients to canned enchilada sauce is an easy way to enhance its flavor and customize it to your liking. One quick and easy recipe using canned enchilada sauce with added ingredients is chicken enchiladas. Simply mix shredded cooked chicken with diced onions, canned green chilies, and a spoonful of sour cream. Roll the mixture into corn tortillas, place them in a baking dish, and cover with canned enchilada sauce that has been mixed with a pinch of cumin and garlic powder. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes for a delicious and easy dinner.
Another quick and easy recipe using canned enchilada sauce with added ingredients is vegetarian black bean enchiladas. Mix together black beans, diced peppers, corn kernels, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Roll the mixture into tortillas and place them in a baking dish. Cover with canned enchilada sauce that has been mixed with a spoonful of salsa. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes for a tasty and healthy meal. These recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend dinner party.
Comparing homemade vs. canned enchilada sauce with added ingredients
When it comes to homemade enchilada sauce, the recipe is often a closely guarded secret passed down through generations. However, for those who want to add their own touch to store-bought canned enchilada sauce, there are several simple ingredients that can be added. These include spices such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder, along with fresh onions and tomatoes, and a touch of honey or brown sugar to balance the acidity.
But how does homemade enchilada sauce compare to the canned variety with added ingredients? Many argue that homemade sauce provides a fresher taste and a deeper flavor profile, while the canned version can lack complexity. However, adding just a few simple ingredients to canned sauce can help elevate the taste and surpass the store-bought flavor. Ultimately, the choice between homemade and canned enchilada sauce with added ingredients comes down to personal preference and convenience.
Surprising ingredients that can take canned enchilada sauce to the next level
If you are a fan of canned enchilada sauce but feel like it’s missing something, this subheading is for you. There are several ingredients you can add to canned enchilada sauce to take it to the next level. One surprising ingredient is peanut butter. Adding a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce can give it a nutty flavor and add creaminess. Alternatively, you can use almond butter or cashew butter. Just make sure to mix it well before adding it to the sauce.
Another surprising ingredient that can enhance canned enchilada sauce is cocoa powder. Adding a teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder can add a subtle chocolate flavor and deepen the color of the sauce. You can also experiment with adding other spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or even cinnamon for a unique twist on traditional enchilada sauce. These ingredients are easy to find and can make your canned enchilada sauce taste like it was made from scratch.
The Bottom Line
Enhancing the flavor of canned enchilada sauce is a personal preference, and some people do it to meet their cultural or taste requirements. If you want to modify the canned enchilada sauce you have, without spoiling its texture, keep it simple, and add small increments of spices to it. Similarly, adding different ingredients like diced vegetables, sour cream, or cheese can improve the texture and make the sauce more filling.
In conclusion, whether you choose to add ingredients to canned enchilada sauce or not, it’s always helpful to have it. It can save your time in the kitchen and give you a helping hand in making quick and easy meals. Although most canned enchilada sauces already have an excellent taste, tweaking them to your liking can add more value and make your meal more enjoyable.
