Low Sodium Enchilada Sauce

Although the low sodium enchilada sauce has less salt content, it still provides a rich, spicy flavor. But the traditional versions are high in sodium content. If you are already monitoring your sodium intake, it’s better to make the sauce on your own, where you can customize the ingredients. 

To make your sodium-free red enchilada sauce, you have to skip the salt first. Then you must have some ingredients, like broth, olive oil, tomato paste, flour, and some spices that are available in almost everybody’s house. Let’s now get to the healthy recipe of enchilada sauce for a low-sodium content.

Know About Low Sodium Enchilada Sauce

Traditional enchilada sauces have sodium-rich ingredients and high salt content. But if you want a sauce for low sodium diet, you can make it by yourself. The low-sodium versions have all-natural ingredients and spices. Among all healthy Mexican recipes, the low-sodium enchilada dip is one. Those who are on dietary restrictions can rely on this sauce because it’s vegan-friendly and gluten-free.

Ingredients You Need

To make your homemade enchilada sauce, make sure you have the following ingredients. 

No-Salt Tomato Sauce

Use 15 oz of tomato sauce that has no salt. It’s going to be the base ingredient here and give the condiment a rich tomato flavor.

Low-Sodium Vegetable or Chicken Broth

2 cups of broth can add depth and savory to the sauce, keeping the sodium level in check

Olive Oil

Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to sauté the spices. This will enhance the aroma and flavor.

All-Purpose Flour

2 tablespoons of flour are going to be the thickening agent in this sauce. You can get a desirable consistency with it.

Chilli Powder 

Use 2 tablespoons of chili powder to give color and heat to your enchilada sauce.

Ground Cumin

Take 1 teaspoon of ground cumin to give a warm, earthy flavor. This will, in fact, complement chili powder.

Garlic Powder

For a subtle garlic flavor, use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. It enhances the overall taste.

Onion Powder

1 teaspoon of onion powder can give a sweet and savory flavor, without any texture of onions.

Oregano

To balance the sauce’s flavor, you need a herbal bitterness. So use ½ teaspoon of oregano in it.

Paprika

For a mild sweetness and vibrant color, use ¼ teaspoon of paprika.

Black Pepper 

¼ teaspoon of black pepper will give a subtle heat to your heart healthy enchilada sauce.

Apple Cider Vinegar 

To add some brightness and balance the spices of the sauce, use 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. 

How to Make Low Sodium Enchilada Sauce With 5 Simple Steps?

After you have arranged all the ingredients in their required amounts, you can start with the recipe.

Step 1

Take a medium saucepan and heat the olive oil on medium heat. Once it becomes hot, whisk it into the flour to make a roux. Then cook the mixture for 1 minute until it turns a light golden color.

Step 2

Now add chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper to the roux. Stir it and let it cook for another 1 minute. This will toast the spices well and release a beautiful aroma.

Step 3

Now pour tomato sauce and broth into the saucepan, ensuring a smooth consistency. Then add apple cider vinegar and continue stirring the mixture until it all combines. 

Step 4

Now, simmer the whole mixture and reduce it to low heat. Let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes. Meanwhile, stir the mixture occasionally until you get a thick consistency 

Step 5

Now, remove the saucepan from the heat and taste the sauce to see if everything is perfect. Lastly, adjust the seasoning if necessary. Then allow the sauce to cool before storing or using. 

How to Adjust the Heat Level?

Not everyone has the same heat tolerance. To adjust the heat of your reduced salt enchilada sauce, follow the tricks below:

Mild: To give the sauce a mild flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit black pepper.

Medium: You can follow the recipe guide above. Its ingredients and portions will give medium heat to the sauce.

Hot: Increase the amount of chili powder and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

Best Dishes To Use With Low Sodium Enchilada Sauce

Trust me, the dishes below will only get better if you pair them with mild no-salt enchilada sauce.

• Vegetable enchiladas
• Black bean tacos
• Grilled chicken burritos
• Spanish rice
• Stuffed bell peppers
• Zucchini boats
• Chilaquiles
• Baked nachos
• Mexican lasagna
• Quinoa bowls

Special Tips

• It’s better to use low-sodium broth in your enchilada sauce to control the salt content. 
• Store the sauce in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze the sauce in some portions so that you can use layers for quick meals.
• Make the recipe double to have some extras ready for meal preparation. 
• Always reheat the sauce gently on low flame for a better texture.

Conclusion 

It’s better to go for low-sodium sauce instead of the traditional enchilada sauce, as it’s a healthier option. In fact, you don’t have to compromise the taste here, as it includes all rich flavors. 

Apart from snacks and vegetables, you can pair it up with Mexican rice and chicken enchiladas and use it as taco toppings. And if you prefer thick sauce, use roux, add more tomato puree, or simmer slowly. In short, you have full freedom to customize your enchilada sauce to make it healthier and tastier.

FAQ

How to Make Enchilada Sauce With No Added Salt?

To make enchilada sauce with no added salt, you will need flour, chilli powder, oil, oregano, tomato paste, onion powder, and garlic powder. Then add broth without any salt, and finish with black pepper.

Best Brands for Low Sodium Enchilada Sauce?

If you want to try low-sodium enchilada sauce, go for Rotel and Red Gold. La Victoria is also good; it has a mild flavor. Besides, Old El Paso has lower sodium content than many other enchilada sauces.

Can I Freeze Low Sodium Enchilada Sauce?

Yes, you can freeze your low-sodium enchilada sauce for up to 3 months.