Are you a fan of enchiladas, but find that the spicy sauce is just too much for your taste buds? Do you want to enjoy the rich, savory flavor of enchilada sauce without the burning sensation that comes with it? If so, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll explore the ways to make spicy enchilada sauce mild, so you can enjoy your favorite dish without the heat.
Understanding the Heat in Enchilada Sauce
Before we dive into the ways to make spicy enchilada sauce mild, it’s essential to understand what makes it spicy in the first place. The heat in enchilada sauce comes from the peppers, specifically the chili peppers, that are used to make it. Chili peppers contain a chemical called capsaicin, which is responsible for the burning sensation we feel when we eat spicy food.
Capsaicin is a natural defense mechanism that helps to deter predators from eating the peppers. It’s also what gives chili peppers their unique flavor and aroma. However, for those who are sensitive to spice, capsaicin can be overwhelming.
The Scoville Scale: Measuring the Heat in Peppers
The Scoville scale is a method of measuring the heat in peppers. It was developed by Wilbur Scoville in 1912 and is still widely used today. The Scoville scale measures the amount of capsaicin present in a pepper by dissolving it in water and then measuring the amount of sugar needed to neutralize the heat.
The Scoville scale ranges from 0 SHU (Scoville Heat Units), which is the rating for a sweet pepper, to over 2 million SHU, which is the rating for some of the hottest peppers in the world. The most common peppers used in enchilada sauce, such as jalapenos and serranos, have a Scoville rating of 2,500-10,000 SHU.
Methods for Making Spicy Enchilada Sauce Mild
Now that we understand the heat in enchilada sauce, let’s explore the ways to make it mild. Here are some methods you can try:
Diluting the Sauce
One of the simplest ways to make spicy enchilada sauce mild is to dilute it with a non-spicy ingredient. You can try adding a little water, broth, or cream to the sauce to reduce the heat. This method is effective, but it can also affect the flavor and texture of the sauce.
Adding Dairy
Dairy products, such as milk, cream, or cheese, contain casein, a protein that binds to capsaicin and helps to neutralize it. Adding a dairy product to your enchilada sauce can help to reduce the heat. However, be careful not to add too much, as it can also affect the flavor and texture of the sauce.
Substituting Peppers
If you’re making your own enchilada sauce from scratch, you can try substituting the peppers with milder varieties. For example, you can use Anaheim or poblano peppers instead of jalapenos or serranos. This method allows you to control the level of heat in your sauce from the beginning.
Removing the Seeds and Membranes
The seeds and membranes of chili peppers contain most of the capsaicin. If you’re using fresh peppers in your sauce, you can try removing the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat. This method is effective, but it can also affect the flavor and texture of the sauce.
Adding Sweetness
A small amount of sweetness can help to balance out the heat in enchilada sauce. You can try adding a little sugar, honey, or tomato paste to the sauce to reduce the heat. However, be careful not to add too much, as it can also affect the flavor and texture of the sauce.
Using Heat-Reducing Ingredients
There are several ingredients that can help to reduce the heat in enchilada sauce. These include:
-
- Bread: Bread can help to absorb some of the capsaicin in the sauce. Simply tear a piece of bread into small pieces and add it to the sauce. Let it sit for a few minutes before removing the bread.
- Potatoes: Potatoes contain a starch that can help to absorb some of the capsaicin in the sauce. Simply boil a potato in the sauce for a few minutes before removing it.
Conclusion
Making spicy enchilada sauce mild is a matter of experimentation and patience. By understanding the heat in peppers and using one or more of the methods outlined above, you can enjoy your favorite dish without the burning sensation. Remember, when working with spicy ingredients, it’s always better to start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Happy cooking!
Additional Tips and Variations
- When making your own enchilada sauce, use a variety of peppers to achieve a balanced flavor.
- Experiment with different types of dairy products, such as Greek yogurt or sour cream, to add a tangy flavor to your sauce.
- Add a little smokiness to your sauce by using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
- Use roasted peppers to add a deep, rich flavor to your sauce.
- Experiment with different spices, such as cumin and coriander, to add a unique flavor to your sauce.
By following these tips and variations, you can create a delicious and mild enchilada sauce that’s perfect for your taste buds.
What is the main ingredient that makes enchilada sauce spicy?
The main ingredient that makes enchilada sauce spicy is typically the type and amount of peppers used in the recipe. Many traditional enchilada sauce recipes include hot peppers such as jalapenos, serranos, or habaneros, which contain a high concentration of capsaicin, the compound that gives peppers their heat.
To reduce the heat of the sauce, you can try substituting in milder peppers, such as Anaheim or poblano peppers, or reducing the amount of peppers used in the recipe. You can also try removing the seeds and membranes from the peppers, as these contain a high concentration of capsaicin.
How can I tone down the heat of my enchilada sauce without losing flavor?
One way to tone down the heat of your enchilada sauce without losing flavor is to add dairy products, such as sour cream or milk. The casein in dairy products binds to the capsaicin, helping to neutralize the heat. You can also try adding a small amount of sugar or honey to balance out the heat.
Another option is to add more of the non-spicy ingredients in the recipe, such as tomatoes or onions, to dilute the heat of the peppers. You can also try simmering the sauce for a longer period of time, as this can help to mellow out the flavors and reduce the heat.
Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce and still make it mild?
Yes, you can use store-bought enchilada sauce and still make it mild. Many store-bought enchilada sauces are quite spicy, but you can tone down the heat by adding dairy products, such as sour cream or milk, or by adding a small amount of sugar or honey.
You can also try mixing the store-bought enchilada sauce with other ingredients, such as diced tomatoes or tomato sauce, to dilute the heat. Just be aware that some store-bought enchilada sauces may contain preservatives or other additives that can affect the flavor and texture of the sauce.
How do I know if my enchilada sauce is too spicy?
If your enchilada sauce is too spicy, you may notice that it has a intense, burning sensation on your tongue or the back of your throat. You may also notice that your eyes water or that you start to sweat.
If you’re unsure whether your enchilada sauce is too spicy, try tasting a small amount of it on a tortilla chip or a piece of bread. If it’s too spicy, you can try toning down the heat using one of the methods described above.
Can I make my enchilada sauce mild and still have it be flavorful?
Yes, you can make your enchilada sauce mild and still have it be flavorful. While the heat of the peppers can add a lot of flavor to the sauce, there are many other ingredients that can add depth and complexity to the sauce, such as onions, garlic, cumin, and oregano.
To make a mild but flavorful enchilada sauce, try using a combination of mild peppers, such as Anaheim or poblano peppers, and adding in other aromatics, such as onions and garlic. You can also try adding in a small amount of smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the sauce.
How long does it take to make mild enchilada sauce from scratch?
The time it takes to make mild enchilada sauce from scratch can vary depending on the recipe and the method used. Some recipes can be made in as little as 30 minutes, while others may take several hours to simmer and reduce.
In general, making enchilada sauce from scratch involves roasting or sautéing the peppers and other aromatics, then simmering the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.
Can I freeze mild enchilada sauce for later use?
Yes, you can freeze mild enchilada sauce for later use. In fact, freezing is a great way to preserve the flavor and texture of the sauce. To freeze the sauce, simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
When you’re ready to use the sauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Frozen enchilada sauce can be stored for up to 6 months in the freezer.