Which Enchilada Sauce Is Not Spicy? A Guide to Mild & Flavorful Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a beloved comfort food, a symphony of tortillas, fillings, and, of course, a generous dousing of enchilada sauce. But for those sensitive to spice, or simply preferring a milder flavor profile, navigating the world of enchilada sauces can be tricky. This article delves into the realm of non-spicy enchilada sauces, exploring the ingredients, brands, and homemade options that allow you to enjoy this delicious dish without the fiery kick.

Table of Contents

Understanding Enchilada Sauce and its Spice Levels

Enchilada sauce is traditionally a chili pepper-based sauce used in Mexican cuisine. Its core ingredients often include dried chili peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. The type of chili pepper used is the primary determinant of the sauce’s heat level.

Different chili peppers possess varying levels of capsaicin, the compound responsible for the burning sensation we perceive as heat. Ancho chiles, for example, are known for their mild, fruity flavor, while habaneros and ghost peppers are notorious for their intense heat. The Scoville scale is used to measure the piquancy (spiciness or “heat”) of chili peppers.

Common commercial enchilada sauces often range in spice levels from mild to medium, though some hotter varieties exist. Even sauces labeled as “mild” can sometimes possess a subtle kick, making it essential to understand the ingredients and potential sources of heat.

The Culprits Behind the Heat

Identifying the sources of heat in enchilada sauce is crucial for finding a mild option. Here are some common ingredients that contribute to the spiciness:

Chili Powders: Many commercial blends contain cayenne pepper, which adds significant heat. Check the ingredient list carefully.
Jalapeños: Though often pickled or used in a less concentrated form, jalapeños can still contribute noticeable heat, especially in sauces labeled “medium.”
Serrano Peppers: These peppers pack more heat than jalapeños and are sometimes used in spicier enchilada sauces.
Cayenne Pepper: Even a small amount of cayenne pepper can significantly increase the heat level of a sauce.
Chili Extracts or Oils: These concentrated forms of chili heat are added for a potent kick.

Identifying Mild Enchilada Sauces: What to Look For

Finding a non-spicy enchilada sauce requires careful label reading and, potentially, some experimentation. Here are some key indicators to look for:

Labeling: Start by looking for sauces explicitly labeled “mild” or “mildly spiced.” However, remember that “mild” is subjective, so further investigation is often needed.
Ingredient List: Scrutinize the ingredient list. If you see cayenne pepper, serrano peppers, habaneros, or chili extracts listed high up (near the beginning), the sauce is likely to be spicy. Look for sauces primarily using ancho chiles or other mild chili varieties.
Customer Reviews: Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the actual heat level of a sauce. Pay attention to comments from people who are also sensitive to spice.
Sugar Content: Oddly, some manufacturers add sugar to supposedly ‘mild’ sauces to counteract the small amount of heat still present. This won’t remove spice from a spicier sauce, but it’s worth noting as it alters the overall flavor profile.

Specific Brands and Options: A Guide to Mildness

While availability can vary depending on your location, here are some brands and specific sauces that are often considered to be on the milder side:

Old El Paso Mild Enchilada Sauce: This is a widely available and generally considered a safe bet for those seeking a mild option. It typically relies on milder chili powders and a touch of sweetness.
Las Palmas Mild Enchilada Sauce: Similar to Old El Paso, Las Palmas’ mild offering is usually a good choice for those avoiding heat. Again, carefully check the ingredient list for any unexpected additions.
Hatch Brand Mild Enchilada Sauce: Hatch is known for its New Mexican chiles, and their “mild” offering uses milder varieties. This can be a good option if you appreciate the flavor of New Mexican chiles without the intense heat.
Homemade Versions: Making your own enchilada sauce offers the greatest control over the ingredients and spice level. This allows you to specifically select mild chiles and adjust the recipe to your liking. More on this later.

Making Your Own Mild Enchilada Sauce: The Ultimate Control

The best way to ensure a truly non-spicy enchilada sauce is to make it yourself. This allows you to completely control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your exact preferences.

Choosing the Right Chiles

The key to a mild homemade enchilada sauce is selecting the right chili peppers. Here are some excellent options:

Ancho Chiles: These dried poblano peppers offer a rich, fruity flavor with very little heat. They are a staple in many mild enchilada sauce recipes.
Guajillo Chiles: These peppers have a slightly more complex flavor than ancho chiles, with hints of berry and tea. They offer a very mild heat level.
New Mexico Chiles (Mild Variety): If you have access to New Mexico chiles, opt for a mild variety. These chiles have a distinctive flavor and aroma.

Remember to remove the seeds and veins from the dried chiles to further reduce any potential heat.

A Basic Mild Enchilada Sauce Recipe

This recipe provides a foundation for a delicious and mild enchilada sauce. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your taste.

Ingredients:

4-6 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Toast the dried chiles: Lightly toast the dried chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
Rehydrate the chiles: Place the toasted chiles in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 20-30 minutes, or until softened.
Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Blend the sauce: Drain the chiles, reserving about 1 cup of the soaking liquid. Add the chiles, onion mixture, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika (if using), tomato sauce, and 1 cup of broth to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Add more broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Simmer the sauce: Pour the blended sauce into the saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Season and adjust: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add more broth or reserved soaking liquid to thin it out.

This homemade sauce provides the best control over heat levels. Taste and adjust seasonings to create your perfect mild enchilada experience.

Tips for Minimizing Spice in Store-Bought Sauces

Even if you opt for a store-bought sauce, there are ways to minimize the potential heat:

Dilute the sauce: Mix the enchilada sauce with tomato sauce or tomato paste to dilute the heat. Start with small amounts and taste as you go.
Add sweetness: A touch of honey or maple syrup can help to balance out the heat. Again, add small amounts and taste.
Pair with cooling ingredients: Use cooling ingredients in your enchilada filling, such as sour cream, avocado, or shredded lettuce, to counteract any residual heat.
Serve with cooling sides: Serve your enchiladas with cooling sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad.

Beyond the Heat: Other Flavor Considerations

While avoiding spice is the primary goal, remember that enchilada sauce is also about flavor. When searching for a mild option, consider the other flavor elements you enjoy:

Smoky: Some sauces have a smoky flavor, often achieved through the use of smoked paprika or chipotle peppers (which, even in small amounts, can add heat).
Fruity: Ancho chiles and other mild peppers can impart a fruity sweetness to the sauce.
Earthy: Some sauces have an earthy flavor, often due to the use of dried herbs and spices.
Tangy: The addition of vinegar or lime juice can add a tangy element.

Ultimately, finding the perfect non-spicy enchilada sauce is a matter of personal preference. By understanding the ingredients, reading labels carefully, and potentially experimenting with homemade versions, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of enchiladas without the unwanted heat. Remember that homemade options offer complete control, allowing you to create a sauce that perfectly suits your palate. And never hesitate to adjust store-bought options to make them your own.

What makes an enchilada sauce spicy?

The primary culprit behind the spiciness of enchilada sauce is the type and amount of chili peppers used in its preparation. Common chili peppers like ancho, guajillo, pasilla, and chipotle can all contribute varying degrees of heat. The specific Scoville Heat Units (SHU) of these peppers determine their spiciness, with chipotle generally being the hottest among those typically used in enchilada sauce. Furthermore, the inclusion of ingredients such as cayenne pepper or chili powder blends with high heat levels will directly increase the sauce’s overall spiciness.

Beyond the chili peppers themselves, the preparation method can also influence perceived heat. Roasting or toasting the peppers before grinding them can intensify their flavor and, in some cases, make the heat more pronounced. Similarly, the length of time the peppers are simmered in the sauce can affect the extraction of capsaicin, the compound responsible for the spicy sensation. Therefore, even using relatively mild peppers can result in a moderately spicy sauce if they are prepared and cooked in a way that maximizes their heat potential.

How can I identify a mild enchilada sauce at the store?

The best way to identify a mild enchilada sauce at the store is by carefully reading the product label and ingredient list. Look for descriptions like “mild,” “original,” or “traditional,” which often indicate a lower spice level. The ingredient list should be scrutinized for mentions of particularly spicy peppers like chipotle or cayenne. If the label prominently features “habanero” or “ghost pepper,” it’s almost certainly going to be very spicy.

Another helpful clue is the color of the sauce. Generally, darker, richer red sauces tend to be made with a wider variety of chili peppers, some of which could be spicier. Lighter red or brown sauces often rely more on milder peppers like ancho or a blend of spices for flavor rather than heat. However, this is not a foolproof method, as the specific ingredients and recipes can vary widely between brands, so reading the label is crucial.

What are some naturally mild chili peppers suitable for enchilada sauce?

Several chili peppers offer excellent flavor with minimal heat, making them ideal for creating a mild enchilada sauce. Ancho peppers are a popular choice, providing a rich, fruity flavor with a very mild heat profile. Pasilla peppers are another good option, adding a smoky and slightly sweet flavor with a low level of spiciness. New Mexico chiles, particularly the mild variations, also offer a distinctive earthy taste without excessive heat.

Other options include California chiles and guajillo peppers, although guajillos can sometimes have a slight kick depending on the specific pepper. When using these peppers, it’s essential to remove the seeds and membranes, as this is where most of the capsaicin, the compound responsible for heat, is concentrated. Experimenting with different combinations of these milder peppers can create a complex and flavorful sauce that is enjoyable for those sensitive to spice.

Can I make my own mild enchilada sauce at home?

Absolutely! Making your own enchilada sauce at home is a fantastic way to control the ingredients and spice level, ensuring a mild and flavorful result. Start by selecting mild chili peppers, such as ancho or pasilla, and rehydrating them in hot water. Then, blend them with other ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices to create the sauce base. You can adjust the amount of chili powder or other spices to your preference, tasting as you go to achieve the desired flavor profile.

Furthermore, homemade enchilada sauce allows you to avoid artificial preservatives and additives often found in store-bought versions. This gives you complete control over the ingredients and ensures a fresh, authentic flavor. Many recipes are available online, providing detailed instructions and variations to suit different tastes. With a little practice, you can easily create a delicious and mild enchilada sauce that is perfect for your family’s needs.

What other ingredients can help mellow out the spiciness of enchilada sauce?

Several ingredients can be added to enchilada sauce to help mellow out its spiciness, creating a more balanced flavor. Dairy products, such as sour cream or Mexican crema, are effective at neutralizing capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in chili peppers. Adding a small amount of these ingredients directly to the sauce or as a topping can significantly reduce the perceived spiciness. Sugar or honey can also help balance the heat by adding sweetness that complements the other flavors.

Another effective ingredient is tomato paste. The acidity in tomato paste helps to cut through the spiciness, while also adding depth and richness to the sauce. Similarly, adding a squeeze of lime juice or a splash of vinegar can help to brighten the flavor and reduce the heat. Finally, blending in cooked vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash can add sweetness and creaminess, effectively diluting the spiciness of the sauce while adding nutritional value.

Are there brands that specifically offer mild enchilada sauces?

Yes, several brands offer enchilada sauces that are specifically labeled as “mild” or “original,” catering to those who prefer less spice. Look for brands like Old El Paso, Hatch, and Siete Family Foods, as they often have milder options within their product lines. Reading online reviews and checking the product’s official website can provide additional information about the spice level and flavor profile.

Keep in mind that even within a brand’s “mild” offerings, the spice level can vary. It’s always a good idea to check the ingredient list for any ingredients that typically indicate heat, such as cayenne pepper or chili flakes. Comparing different brands and their respective “mild” options can help you find the perfect sauce that matches your taste preferences. Smaller, regional brands might also offer less spicy options focusing on flavor rather than heat.

Can I mix a spicy enchilada sauce with something to make it milder?

Yes, you can definitely tone down a spicy enchilada sauce by mixing it with other ingredients to reduce its heat. A simple method is to combine the spicy sauce with a can of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. This will dilute the concentration of chili peppers and reduce the overall spiciness. Adding some chicken broth or vegetable broth can also help to stretch the sauce and mellow out the flavor.

Alternatively, consider adding ingredients that counteract the spiciness, such as sour cream, Mexican crema, or even a touch of sugar. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, gradually adding more until you reach your desired spice level. Remember to simmer the mixture for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. These adjustments will help create a milder, more palatable enchilada sauce without completely sacrificing its original flavor.