Enchilada Sauce — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 5, 2024
Enchilada sauce nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 54 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 7 g | 2.55% |
| Fiber | 2 g | 7.14% |
| Sugars | 3 g | 6% |
| Glycemic Index | 30 | - |
| Protein | 1 g | 2% |
| Sodium | 400 mg | 17.39% |
| Total Fat | 3 | 3.85% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
30
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
3 g
🥕 Low Fat Content
Enchilada sauce facts & tips
Health benefits
- Rich in flavor, enhancing the taste of dishes and making healthy foods more enjoyable.
- Contains antioxidants from tomatoes and peppers, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Low in calories, making it a healthy option for adding flavor without significantly increasing calorie intake.
- Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, which supports immune function and overall health.
Health risks
- High sodium content in many commercial enchilada sauces, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks when consumed frequently.
- Potential for artificial additives such as preservatives, flavorings, or thickeners in some commercial enchilada sauces, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Potential for digestive discomfort due to the presence of spicy ingredients, which may cause heartburn or stomach irritation in sensitive individuals.
- Low nutrient density as enchilada sauce is typically used as a condiment, offering minimal vitamins or minerals.
How to choose enchilada sauce
With its robust and spicy flavor profile, enchilada sauce should be thick and rich in color. The sauce should coat a spoon well and not be watery or runny, ensuring it will adhere nicely to your enchiladas.
Enchilada sauce that appears thin or has visible separation should be avoided, as it may not provide the desired coating or flavor enhancement. Cans that are dented or have rust should also be avoided, as they could affect the sauce's quality and safety.
How to store enchilada sauce
Enchilada sauce should be stored in the refrigerator after opening, kept in its original jar or an airtight container. Refrigeration preserves its flavor and quality for up to a week.
Exposure to air can cause enchilada sauce to spoil. Avoid leaving it uncovered, and always use clean utensils to scoop out portions. Proper sealing ensures it stays fresh and ready to use.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Enchilada sauce can last for 6-12 months unopened when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within 5-7 days. Proper storage helps maintain its flavor and quality.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover enchilada sauce can be used in a variety of savory and spicy dishes. Use it as a topping for enchiladas, burritos, or tacos, or mix it into a casserole with rice, beans, and cheese. Enchilada sauce is also great when added to a chili or stew for added flavor and richness.
Use enchilada sauce as a base for a Mexican-style pizza, topped with cheese, beans, and your favorite toppings, or mix it into a macaroni and cheese for a spicy twist. If you have a lot of enchilada sauce, consider making a batch of enchilada lasagna by layering the sauce with tortillas, cheese, and meat, then baking until bubbly. Enchilada sauce can also be used as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables, or mixed into a breakfast scramble with eggs, cheese, and salsa. For a quick snack, enjoy enchilada sauce with tortilla chips or use it as a dip for quesadillas or taquitos.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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