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Green Enchilada Sauce

Green Enchilada Sauce

This easy and authentic Green Enchilada Sauce recipe brings the vibrant, tangy flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine right to your kitchen. Made with fresh tomatillos, chilies, and herbs, it is a versatile sauce perfect for enchiladas, marinades, dips, and more. Ready in under 20 minutes, this sauce delivers a bright, zesty punch with customizable heat, adding a delicious depth to your favorite dishes without any hassle.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 68 fresh tomatillos, husked and rinsed
  • 23 jalapeños or serrano peppers, rinsed (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 3 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup vegetable broth or water
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (optional)

Optional Variations

  • Extra jalapeños, serranos, or pinch of cayenne pepper for added heat
  • 1/2 avocado or 2 tablespoons coconut cream for dairy-free creaminess
  • Fresh parsley or basil instead of cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle in adobo sauce for smoky flavor
  • Low-sodium broth and reduced salt for a low-sodium option

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tomatillos and Chilies: Rinse and husk the tomatillos, then roughly chop them along with the jalapeños or serrano peppers. This ensures even cooking and easier blending later.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This develops a savory base for the sauce.
  3. Cook Tomatillos and Chilies: Add the chopped tomatillos and chilies to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tomatillos soften and change color, which mellows acidity and enhances sweetness.
  4. Blend Until Smooth: Transfer the cooked mixture to a blender. Add fresh cilantro, lime juice, vegetable broth (or water), salt, and pepper. Blend until silky smooth—add broth or water gradually to reach desired consistency.
  5. Adjust Seasoning and Heat: Taste the sauce and tweak salt, lime juice, or chili quantity as preferred, allowing you to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and heat.

Notes

  • Roasting Tomatillos: For a deeper flavor, roast tomatillos under the broiler before cooking.
  • Remove Seeds for Less Heat: Remove chili seeds to reduce spiciness without sacrificing flavor.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Always opt for fresh cilantro to maintain a bright, fresh taste.
  • Blend Thoroughly: Blend long enough to ensure a smooth, restaurant-quality texture.
  • Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months, leaving room for expansion.
  • Reheating: Warm gently over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring to maintain texture.

Nutrition

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