Spicy Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada Recipe

Indulge in the rich flavors of the Southwest with our beloved Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada sauce. This recipe holds the essence of New Mexico comfort, boasting the earthy allure of authentic Chimayo chile powder and the velvety richness of a hand-whisked roux. As it simmers, the aromas will transport you to cherished memories of family gatherings and the nostalgic scents of kitchens past.

Crafted to perfection, this Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada sauce is a staple in our home, ready to elevate any meal with its deep toasty notes and bold flavors. Whether generously poured over classic enchiladas, drizzled atop huevos rancheros, or used as a dip for warm tortillas, this sauce adds a touch of tradition and warmth to every dish. It’s a culinary legacy worth savoring, one simmer at a time.

Embrace the centuries-old tradition of Chimayo chile with this homemade sauce that encapsulates the heart of New Mexico cuisine. Keep a jar of this flavorful goodness on hand for a quick burst of Southwestern flair in your meals, and let the spirit of Chimayo bring your family together over the shared love of good food and cherished memories.

Quick Benefits

• Renowned for its earthy, mild-to-medium heat and slightly smoky undertones, Chimayo red chile powder adds depth and authentic flavor to dishes.
• Traditional lard provides the richest flavor and texture, but vegetable shortening or high-quality oil can be used as substitutes for a delicious result.
• Versatile sauce perfect for drizzling over enchiladas, burritos, eggs, and roasted vegetables, offering an authentic Southwestern taste experience.
• Easily adjustable heat level by varying the amount of chile powder or spices to cater to individual preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada Recipe Recipe

• Authentic Southwestern Flavor: This recipe captures the essence of New Mexico cuisine with the rich, earthy flavor of Chimayo red chile powder.
• Family Tradition: The process of making this sauce can be a bonding experience, creating lasting memories with loved ones.
• Versatile Sauce: Use it generously on enchiladas, burritos, eggs, or roasted vegetables for a burst of flavor.
• Adjustable Heat: You can customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of chile powder and spices to suit your personal preference.
• Long-Lasting: Store the sauce in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for later use without compromising its delicious taste.
• Culinary Adventure: Experiment with different dishes like huevos rancheros or breakfast burritos to explore the full potential of this versatile sauce.
• Cultural Connection: By using Chimayo red chile powder, you’re connecting with a rich culinary tradition that has been cherished for centuries in New Mexico.

Ingredients for Spicy Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada Recipe

Main Components

• 125 ml Chimayo red chili powder
• 125 ml lard or vegetable shortening
• 125 ml all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Seasonings

• Ground Mexican cumin to taste
• Onion powder to taste
• Garlic powder to taste
• Salt to taste

Pro Tips for Spicy Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada Recipe

To enhance the flavor of your Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada sauce, consider toasting the Chimayo red chile powder in a dry skillet over low heat before incorporating it into the roux. This will deepen the smoky undertones and bring out the chile’s natural oils, intensifying its flavor profile.

For a more authentic touch, opt for lard over vegetable shortening when making the roux. The richness and depth of flavor that lard provides can truly elevate the taste of your sauce, bringing it closer to traditional New Mexican cuisine. However, if lard isn’t available, a high-quality vegetable shortening can be a suitable substitute to achieve a similar texture and taste.

When storing your homemade Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada sauce, ensure it cools completely before transferring it to glass jars or airtight containers. Labeling containers with the date can help you keep track of freshness, allowing you to enjoy the sauce at its best for up to five days in the refrigerator or longer in the freezer. This way, you can savor the rich flavors and aromas of this beloved sauce with every meal.

How to Make Spicy Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Roux with Aromatics

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine lard or vegetable shortening, all-purpose flour, and minced garlic. Whisk constantly over medium heat to prevent the garlic from burning.

Step 2: Develop Color and Add Chili Powder

Continue whisking the mixture until it turns a medium blonde color. Then, whisk in Chimayo red chili powder until well combined.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency

Whisk warm water into the sauce gradually until smooth and pourable.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Simmer

Lower the heat to low. Stir in salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and ground Mexican cumin to taste. Whisk to combine, then let the sauce simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes.

Storage Tips

Once you have made your delectable Chimayo red chile enchilada sauce, ensure it is cooled completely before storing to maintain its freshness. For short-term storage, transfer the sauce into glass jars or airtight containers and refrigerate for up to five days. If you plan to keep it for an extended period, freeze the sauce in portions in freezer-safe bags with the air pressed out. It is advisable to label the containers with the date to keep track of the freshness of your delicious sauce and prevent any waste.

Chimayo red chile enchilada sauce is versatile and can be enjoyed in various dishes such as enchiladas, burritos, eggs, and even roasted vegetables. Its mild-to-medium heat and smoky undertones make it a perfect addition to your Southwestern-inspired meals. Remember that the sauce can be adjusted in terms of thickness and heat level by gradually adding warm water or varying the amount of chile powder and spices. By storing your homemade Chimayo red chile enchilada sauce properly, you can continue to savor its authentic flavors and bring a touch of tradition to your table for future meals.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Chimayo red chile powder, feel free to substitute it with New Mexican red chile powder or a fresh California chile blend. These alternatives will still provide a delicious flavor profile similar to the original recipe. However, avoid using generic chili powder blends, as they may not offer the same depth of flavor.

While lard is traditionally used in this recipe for its rich flavor, you can substitute it with vegetable shortening or even butter for a slightly different but equally tasty result. These substitutions will still provide the necessary fat content and help create a smooth, velvety texture for your enchilada sauce.

To adjust the heat level of the sauce, you can easily vary the amount of chile powder or spices used according to your preference. Start with smaller amounts and gradually increase to achieve your desired level of spiciness. This flexibility allows you to customize the sauce to suit your taste buds, whether you prefer a milder or spicier version.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try layering this rich and aromatic Chimayo red chile enchilada sauce over a bed of fluffy Spanish rice and topping it with grilled shrimp for a delicious and vibrant seafood dish that bursts with Southwestern flavors. The smoky undertones and mild heat of the sauce will perfectly complement the sweetness of the shrimp, creating a memorable culinary experience that is sure to impress your guests.

Another creative idea is to use this Chimayo red chile enchilada sauce as a marinade for grilled vegetables. Simply coat your favorite veggies in the sauce, allow them to marinate for a few hours, then grill them to perfection. The charred, smoky flavor from the grill combined with the rich, earthy notes of the sauce will create a mouthwatering dish that is both hearty and satisfying. Serve the grilled vegetables alongside warm tortillas and fresh guacamole for a festive and flavorful meal that celebrates the essence of Southwestern cuisine.

FAQs for Spicy Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada Recipe

Can I substitute lard with vegetable shortening or oil?

Yes, you may use vegetable shortening or a high-quality oil, though traditional lard provides the richest flavor and texture.

How do I adjust the thickness of the red chile enchilada sauce?

Gradually add warm water while whisking until the sauce reaches the desired thickness for your dish.

What dishes can I use the Chimayo red chile enchilada sauce for?

This sauce is ideal for drizzling over enchiladas, burritos, eggs, and roasted vegetables for authentic Southwestern flavor.

How spicy is the Chimayo red chile powder, and can I adjust the heat level?

The heat level is moderate but can be adjusted by varying the amount of chile powder or spices to suit your taste.

Conclusion

As you savor the rich flavors of this Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada sauce, let it transport you to the vibrant kitchens of New Mexico, where generations have gathered around the table to enjoy the warmth and tradition it brings. The earthy notes of Chimayo chile powder infuse each dish with a depth of flavor that is truly unforgettable.

Whether you are spooning it over classic enchiladas, drizzling it on breakfast burritos, or using it as a dip for warm tortillas, this versatile sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Embrace the spirit of Southwest cuisine and create memories with your loved ones as you pass on the tradition of homemade Chimayo Red Chile Enchilada sauce, one simmering pot at a time.