Low Sodium Green Enchilada Sauce

Low Sodium Green Enchilada Sauce

Roasting tomatillos and peppers creates a deep, rich flavor in this homemade enchilada sauce. By skipping added salt and using low-sodium broth, it’s kidney-friendly and suitable for anyone managing blood pressure. Lime juice and fresh cilantro brighten the sauce, making it a delicious and versatile condiment for low sodium cooking.

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Ingredients Needed

  • 1 pound tomatillos: husked and rinsed for tart, bright flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic: roasted for sweetness.
  • 2 jalapeño peppers: adds mild heat (adjust to taste).
  • 2 poblano peppers: smoky and mild.
  • 2 serrano peppers: for extra spice (optional).
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro: fresh and herbal.
  • ½ tbsp cumin: earthy depth.
  • 1 tbsp chili powder (salt-free): warmth and mild heat.
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegan): thins the sauce.
  • Juice of 1 lime: adds brightness.
  • Black pepper to taste: optional seasoning.

How to Make Low Sodium Green Enchilada Sauce

Roast Vegetables:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Husk tomatillos and cut in half. Slice peppers in half and remove seeds if desired for less heat. Place tomatillos, peppers, and garlic on a lightly oiled baking sheet, skin side up. Roast for 20–30 minutes until skins are charred.

Blend Sauce:
Peel pepper skins if desired. Add roasted tomatillos, peppers, and garlic to a blender or food processor. Add cilantro, cumin, chili powder, broth, lime juice, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.

Simmer for Flavor:
Pour sauce into a saucepan and simmer 5–10 minutes to deepen flavor. Taste and adjust spice with extra lime or chili powder if needed.

Low Sodium Green Enchilada Sauce
Low Sodium Green Enchilada Sauce

Recipe Tips

  • Use low-sodium broth to keep sodium levels low.
  • Remove seeds from jalapeño and serrano for a milder sauce.
  • Roast longer for more smoky flavor.
  • Make it vegan with low-sodium vegetable broth.
  • Add extra lime at serving for a bright finish without salt.

How to Store & Reheat

  • Room Temperature: Refrigerate promptly; do not leave out more than 2 hours.
  • Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 6 months; thaw in fridge overnight and stir before use.

Nutrition Facts (Per ½ cup, approx.)

  • Calories: 83
  • Sodium: ~45 mg (using low-sodium broth)
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fat: 2 g
  • Carbs: 14 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 7 g

FAQs

Is green enchilada sauce usually high in sodium?
Yes, most canned versions are high in sodium. This homemade recipe uses low-sodium broth and no added salt for a heart-healthy option.

Can I use only jalapeños instead of poblano and serrano?
Yes, but the flavor will be spicier and less smoky. Poblanos add mild depth to the sauce.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for 5 days or freezes for months.

How do I make this sauce milder?
Remove seeds and membranes from all peppers before roasting.

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Low Sodium Green Enchilada Sauce

Recipe by Evelyn ReedCourse: SauceCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4 cups

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

83

kcal

Smoky, tangy, and naturally low sodium, this roasted tomatillo sauce is perfect for enchiladas and other Mexican dishes.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb tomatillos, husked

  • 4 cloves garlic

  • 2 jalapeños

  • 2 poblanos

  • 2 serranos (optional)

  • 2 tbsp cilantro

  • ½ tbsp cumin

  • 1 tbsp chili powder (salt-free)

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • Black pepper to taste

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Roast tomatillos, peppers, and garlic for 20–30 minutes until charred.
  • Blend roasted vegetables with cilantro, cumin, chili powder, broth, lime juice, and black pepper until smooth.
  • Simmer sauce 5–10 minutes to deepen flavor. Use immediately or store for later.

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