enchilada sauce

Enchilada sauces are commonly sold in labeled spice levels such as mild (or mild heat), medium, and hot (or spicy), with exact wording varying by brand.

They are typically sold as pureed or pourable/liquid sauces. Some are labeled ready-to-eat, while others are marked as prepared for heating or 'heat and serve.'

Common bases and ingredients include green chile or green chiles, jalapeño peppers, tomatillos, tomato puree or ground yellow chiles, roasted jalapeño and chipotle, dried epazote, onion, and various peppers and seasonings.

Labels often claim vegan or plant-based, low fat or fat free, 0 g trans fat, gluten-free, and cholesterol-free. Many also state no artificial sweeteners, no added sugar, no high-fructose corn syrup, no hydrogenated oil, and sometimes no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Some product labels advise shaking before use and recommend refrigerating after opening. Follow the specific storage and use-by instructions on the label for best quality.

Both options exist: many enchilada sauces are labeled ready-to-eat, while others are marked as prepared for heating or 'heat and serve' before serving.