Can you substitute marinara sauce for enchilada sauce?

Here's what you need to know:

Similarities:

* Both marinara and enchilada sauces are tomato-based.

Differences:

* Spice level: Marinara is generally milder, while enchilada sauce is usually spicier due to the addition of chili peppers.

* Flavor profile: Enchilada sauce has a richer, more complex flavor due to spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Marinara is typically more savory and slightly sweet.

* Texture: Enchilada sauce tends to be thicker than marinara.

Substituting:

* If you're substituting marinara for enchilada sauce, you'll likely want to add some spice. You can use chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a commercially prepared enchilada seasoning blend.

* To thicken the marinara, you can simmer it for a few minutes or add a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour slurry.

Considerations:

* The substitution may not be ideal for traditional enchilada recipes, as the flavor profile will be significantly different.

* If you're using a very sweet marinara sauce, you may need to add additional salt to balance the flavors.

Alternatives:

* If you don't have enchilada sauce, you can use a red chile sauce, such as New Mexican red chile sauce.

* Another option is to make your own enchilada sauce. There are many simple recipes available online.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to substitute marinara for enchilada sauce depends on your personal preferences and the specific recipe you're using.