Are you a vegan who loves Mexican cuisine? If so, you might be wondering if Old El Paso’s enchilada sauce is vegan-friendly.
Well, we have good news for you! This popular store brand enchilada sauce is not only vegan but also gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.
But what about the taste? Is it any good? We can assure you that it has an authentic Mexican flavor, thanks to the use of chili peppers, garlic, and onion in the recipe. And the best part? It has just the right amount of spice to give it a little kick without being too overwhelming.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious and vegan-friendly enchilada sauce, Old El Paso’s is definitely worth trying! Let’s dive deeper into the ingredients and nutritional information to learn more.
Is Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce Vegan?
Yes, Old El Paso’s enchilada sauce is vegan. It contains no animal products, making it a great option for those following a vegan diet. The ingredients include tomato paste, chili peppers, garlic, onion, and a blend of seasonings. There are no animal-derived ingredients listed on the packaging.
Ingredients In Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce
Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce is made with a simple yet flavorful blend of ingredients. The first ingredient listed is water, followed by tomato puree made from water and tomato paste. Modified corn starch is also included, which helps to thicken the sauce and give it a smooth consistency.
Other ingredients in the sauce include sugar, salt, chili pepper, soybean oil, vinegar, hydrolyzed corn protein, citric acid, onion powder, red pepper, natural flavor, and color added. The natural flavor is likely a blend of spices and herbs that give the sauce its distinct taste.
The color added is derived from black carrot and paprika extract. This gives the sauce its rich red color without the use of artificial colors or dyes.
Nutritional Information Of Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce
Old El Paso Mild Enchilada Sauce is a low-calorie option, with only 20 calories per 1/4 cup serving. It also contains 0 grams of saturated fat, making it a healthier option compared to other sauces that are high in saturated fat. However, it does contain 290 mg of sodium, which is 13% of the daily value (DV). This may be a concern for individuals who are watching their sodium intake.
The main ingredients in the sauce are water, tomato puree (water, tomato paste), and modified corn starch. The sauce also contains sugar, salt, chili pepper, soybean oil, vinegar, hydrolyzed corn protein, citric acid, onion powder, red pepper, color added, and natural flavor. It is important to note that the sauce contains soybean oil, which may be a concern for individuals with soy allergies.
How To Use Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce In Your Recipes
Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate it into your cooking:
1. Classic Beef Enchiladas: As mentioned in the scraped text, Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce is perfect for making classic beef enchiladas. Simply brown ground beef and mix it with the sauce, then spoon the mixture into tortillas and bake.
2. Vegetarian Enchiladas: For a vegetarian twist on the classic recipe, substitute the beef with black beans or tofu. You can also add in some sautéed veggies like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor.
3. Chicken Enchiladas: Swap out the beef for shredded chicken for a different take on the classic recipe. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook up some chicken breasts and shred them yourself.
4. Enchilada Casserole: Layer tortillas, enchilada sauce, cheese, and your choice of filling (such as ground beef or black beans) in a baking dish to make a delicious enchilada casserole. Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
5. Mexican Rice: Add some Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce to your favorite rice recipe to give it a spicy kick. You can also mix in some black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes for a complete meal.
No matter how you use it, Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce is a tasty and convenient ingredient that can help you whip up delicious meals in no time.
Other Vegan-Friendly Mexican Sauces To Try
If you’re looking to switch up your Mexican sauce game, there are plenty of vegan-friendly options to try. Here are a few to consider:
1. Salsa Verde: This tangy and slightly spicy sauce is made with tomatillos, jalapenos, onion, and garlic. It’s a great addition to tacos, burritos, or as a dip for chips.
2. Mole Sauce: This rich and complex sauce is made with chili peppers, spices, and sometimes chocolate or peanut butter. It’s often served with chicken or beef, but can also be used as a topping for enchiladas or as a dip.
3. Guacamole: This classic avocado-based dip is a staple in Mexican cuisine. It’s made with mashed avocado, lime juice, salt, and sometimes tomato or onion. It’s perfect for topping tacos or as a dip for chips.
4. Pico de Gallo: This fresh and flavorful salsa is made with chopped tomatoes, onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s a great addition to tacos or as a topping for grilled vegetables.
5. Hot Sauce: There are many different types of hot sauce available, but most are vegan-friendly. Look for options made with chili peppers, vinegar, and salt for a spicy kick to your Mexican dishes.
