Burrito Sauce Vs Enchilada Sauce
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, burritos and enchiladas are two of the most popular dishes. Both dishes are delicious and satisfying, but they are not the same. One of the main differences between these two dishes is the sauce. Burrito sauce and enchilada sauce might seem similar, but they have distinct flavors and uses. In this article, we'll take a closer look at burrito sauce vs enchilada sauce and help you decide which one to use for your next Mexican feast.
What is Burrito Sauce?
Burrito sauce is a smooth, mild sauce that's typically made with a combination of tomatoes, onions, garlic, cumin, and other Mexican spices. The sauce is used to add flavor and moisture to burritos, which typically consist of a tortilla filled with beans, rice, meat, and other ingredients. Burrito sauce is usually served on the side or drizzled over the burrito before it's rolled up. It's also a great sauce for dipping tortilla chips or quesadillas.
What is Enchilada Sauce?
Enchilada sauce is a rich, spicy sauce that's made with a combination of dried chili peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and other Mexican spices. The sauce is used to add flavor and heat to enchiladas, which are filled tortillas that are typically rolled up with cheese, meat, or vegetables. Enchilada sauce is usually poured over the enchiladas before they are baked to give them a delicious, spicy flavor. It's also a great topping for tacos, tostadas, and other Mexican dishes.
What are the Main Differences?
While both burrito sauce and enchilada sauce contain similar ingredients, there are a few key differences that set them apart.
- Spiciness: Enchilada sauce is typically spicier than burrito sauce. It's made with dried chili peppers, which give it a more intense heat than burrito sauce, which is usually made with fresh tomatoes.
- Consistency: Burrito sauce is typically smoother than enchilada sauce. It's meant to be a mild, flavorful sauce that adds moisture to burritos and other dishes. Enchilada sauce is thicker and chunkier, with pieces of tomato and onion in the sauce.
- Usage: Burrito sauce is usually served as a side sauce or drizzled over the top of burritos. It's a great sauce for dipping tortilla chips or quesadillas. Enchilada sauce is used as a topping for enchiladas and other Mexican dishes. It's a great sauce for adding flavor and heat to your favorite Mexican dishes.
Ultimately, the choice between burrito sauce and enchilada sauce comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a mild, smooth sauce, burrito sauce is the way to go. If you like your Mexican food spicy and chunky, enchilada sauce is the better choice.
How to Make Burrito Sauce
If you want to make your own burrito sauce, here's an easy recipe:
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until the onions are translucent.
- Add the diced tomatoes and spices to the pan and stir to combine.
- Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Take the pan off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Puree the sauce in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Now you can enjoy homemade burrito sauce with your favorite Mexican dishes!
How to Make Enchilada Sauce
If you want to make your own enchilada sauce, here's an easy recipe:
- 4 dried ancho chili peppers
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of oil
Instructions:
- Remove the stems and seeds from the ancho chili peppers and soak them in hot water for 20-30 minutes.
- While the peppers are soaking, heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until the onions are translucent.
- Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
- Add the soaked ancho chili peppers to the pan and stir to combine.
- Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Take the pan off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Puree the sauce in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Now you can enjoy homemade enchilada sauce with your favorite Mexican dishes!
Conclusion
Burrito sauce and enchilada sauce might seem similar, but they are two very different sauces with distinct flavors and uses. Whether you prefer a mild, smooth sauce or a spicy, chunky sauce, there's a Mexican sauce that's perfect for your next meal. By following these easy recipes, you can make your own burrito sauce or enchilada sauce at home and enjoy the delicious flavors of Mexican cuisine.