Making your own enchilada seasoning at home is not only simple but also allows you to control the heat and flavor. It's a blend of common spices that can be adjusted to your liking.
All of the ingredients for this enchilada seasoning recipe are likely already in your spice rack. If not, they can easily be found in the spice aisle of any supermarket. The chili powder is the primary ingredient so choose one that suits your heat preference.
Ingredients for Homemade Enchilada Seasoning
Chili powder: The base of the seasoning, it adds the spicy kick. Choose a heat level that suits your preference.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the seasoning.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other spices.
Ground cumin: Adds a warm and earthy flavor.
Dried oregano: Gives a hint of sweetness and a slight peppery zest.
One reader, Jamal Forrester says:
This homemade enchilada seasoning recipe is a game-changer! It adds an authentic, robust flavor to my enchiladas, and I love that I can control the spice level. It's so easy to make and beats any store-bought seasoning. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves Mexican cuisine!
Techniques for Blending the Perfect Spice Mix
How to whisk ingredients together: Combine all the listed ingredients in a small bowl and mix them thoroughly until they are well combined.
How to store in an airtight container: After mixing the ingredients, transfer the homemade enchilada seasoning into an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor for up to 1 year.
How To Make Enchilada Seasoning
Make your meal more flavorful and exciting with this enchilada seasoning made with simple ingredients and super easy to make as well.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½cupchili powder
- 1tsppowder garlic
- 1tspsalt
- ½tspground cumin
- ½tspdried oregano
Instructions
-
Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl until combined.
-
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 year.
Nutrition
- Calories: 189.91kcal
- Fat: 9.41g
- Saturated Fat: 1.60g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.21g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.17g
- Carbohydrates: 33.54g
- Fiber: 22.65g
- Sugar: 4.67g
- Protein: 9.02g
- Sodium: 1837.25mg
- Calcium: 234.03mg
- Potassium: 1284.30mg
- Iron: 12.00mg
- Vitamin A: 950.22µg
- Vitamin C: 1.41mg
Pro Tip for Enhancing Enchilada Seasoning Flavor
When making your homemade enchilada seasoning, it's important to use fresh spices. Spices lose their potency over time, so for the best flavor, check the expiration dates on your spices before using them. If they're over a year old, consider replacing them. Also, to enhance the flavors of the ground cumin and dried oregano, you can lightly toast them in a dry pan over low heat before adding them to the mix. Just be careful not to burn them.
Time-Saving Tips for Homemade Enchilada Seasoning
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes and cook everything in one pot for easy cleanup.
Batch cooking: Make a large batch of the seasoning and store it for future use to save time on measuring and mixing each time.
Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.
Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and slow cookers to expedite the cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Enchilada Seasoning Recipe
chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can provide a similar smoky and slightly sweet flavor to chili powder, making it a suitable substitute.
powder garlic - Substitute with minced garlic: Minced garlic can be used as a substitute for garlic powder, providing a more intense and fresh garlic flavor.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory and salty flavor similar to salt, while also providing a hint of umami richness.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, offering a slightly citrusy and earthy flavor.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram can replace oregano, providing a similar herbaceous and slightly floral flavor.
Creative Ways to Package Enchilada Seasoning
Elevate the plating: Arrange the enchilada seasoning in a small, elegant spice dish to showcase its vibrant colors and aromatic appeal.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of finely chopped green onions to add a pop of freshness and visual appeal.
Utilize contrast: Present the seasoning on a contrasting dark plate to make the colors stand out and create a visually striking presentation.
Emphasize texture: Consider adding a small wooden spoon or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes alongside the seasoning to add a textural element to the presentation.
Highlight authenticity: Place the seasoning alongside traditional corn tortillas or enchiladas to emphasize its role in creating authentic Mexican flavors.
Essential Equipment for Mixing Spices
- Whisk: A utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, typically with a handle and loops of wire.
- Small bowl: A container used for mixing and holding small amounts of ingredients.
- Airtight container: A sealed container used for storing the enchilada seasoning to maintain its freshness.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Spice Mixes
- This homemade enchilada seasoning can be stored in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid, to maintain its freshness and potency.
- When stored properly in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, this seasoning blend should last for up to 1 year.
- For optimal flavor, it's best to use the seasoning within 6 months of preparing it.
- If you want to make a larger batch of the seasoning, feel free to double or triple the recipe. Just make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- To keep the seasoning fresh for an extended period, consider storing it in the refrigerator. This will help prevent any moisture from affecting the quality of the spices.
- If you notice any clumping or hardening of the seasoning over time, simply break up the clumps with a fork or give the container a good shake before using.
- For those who prefer to have the seasoning readily available for future use, you can freeze the mixture in an airtight container for up to 6 months. When ready to use, allow the seasoning to thaw at room temperature before adding it to your dishes.
- To maintain the best flavor and aroma, avoid storing the seasoning near heat sources or in areas with high humidity, as this can cause the spices to lose their potency more quickly.
How To Reheat Dishes Made with Enchilada Seasoning
To reheat leftover homemade enchilada seasoning, simply sprinkle the desired amount over your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes, such as tacos, burritos, or quesadillas, before reheating them in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop.
For a quick and easy way to revive the flavors of your leftover enchilada seasoning, mix a tablespoon or two with some olive oil and lime juice to create a flavorful marinade for chicken, pork, or shrimp. Grill or sauté the marinated protein for a delicious and spicy meal.
Stir a spoonful of leftover enchilada seasoning into a pot of chili, soup, or stew to add depth and complexity to the dish. The seasoning will infuse the broth with a rich, smoky flavor that complements a variety of ingredients.
Combine leftover enchilada seasoning with some sour cream or Greek yogurt to create a zesty dip for tortilla chips, vegetables, or crackers. This quick and easy appetizer is perfect for parties or snacking.
Mix a tablespoon of leftover enchilada seasoning with some mayonnaise and spread it on a sandwich or wrap for a spicy and flavorful twist on a classic lunchtime staple. The seasoning adds a kick of heat and a depth of flavor that elevates any ordinary sandwich.
Interesting Trivia About Enchilada Spices
Enchilada seasoning is a versatile spice blend that can be used in various Mexican dishes, such as tacos, burritos, and fajitas.
Is Making Your Own Enchilada Seasoning Cost-Effective?
This homemade enchilada seasoning recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making it an affordable option. With a rating of 9/10, this seasoning adds a burst of flavor to vegetables, meat, and soups. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Is This Seasoning Mix Healthy?
The homemade enchilada seasoning recipe is a healthier alternative to store-bought seasoning mixes, as it allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any unnecessary additives or preservatives. The recipe primarily consists of spices and herbs, which are naturally low in calories and fat.
However, there are a few aspects of this recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- The high amount of chili powder may contribute to a significant sodium content, especially when combined with added salt. Reducing the salt or using a low-sodium alternative could help lower the overall sodium levels.
- While the recipe does include some beneficial spices like cumin and oregano, it lacks other nutritious ingredients that could boost its health profile.
To enhance the nutritional value of this enchilada seasoning, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of salt in the recipe or opt for a low-sodium alternative to decrease the overall sodium content
- Add more health-promoting spices and herbs, such as:
- Turmeric, which contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Smoked paprika, which is rich in vitamin A and can provide a depth of flavor
- Cinnamon, which may help regulate blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory effects
- Include some nutritional yeast, which is a good source of B vitamins and can add a cheesy, umami flavor to the seasoning blend
- Experiment with adding dried, ground vegetables like spinach or beetroot powder to increase the fiber and micronutrient content of the seasoning
By making these adjustments, you can create a more well-rounded and nutritious enchilada seasoning that still delivers on flavor while supporting your overall health goals.
Editor's Take on This Enchilada Seasoning Recipe
This homemade enchilada seasoning recipe is a versatile and flavorful blend that will elevate your dishes. The combination of chili powder, garlic, salt, cumin, and oregano creates a rich and aromatic seasoning that can be used to add depth to enchiladas, tacos, and other Mexican-inspired dishes. The simplicity of the recipe allows for easy customization to suit your personal taste preferences. By making your own seasoning blend, you can ensure the quality and freshness of the ingredients, resulting in a more vibrant and authentic flavor profile. This seasoning is a must-have for any home cook looking to add a delicious kick to their meals.
Why trust this Enchilada Seasoning Recipe:
This homemade enchilada seasoning recipe is a must-try for all Mexican cuisine enthusiasts. Crafted with a blend of chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano, this seasoning promises an authentic and robust flavor profile. With carefully selected spices and precise measurements, this recipe ensures a perfect balance of heat and earthy undertones. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the expertise behind this blend, and elevate your enchilada dishes to new heights. Embrace the convenience of having this homemade seasoning on hand, and savor the rich, aromatic essence it brings to your culinary creations.
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