Enchiladas

Deutsch: Enchiladas / Español: Enchiladas / Português: Enchiladas / Français: Enchiladas / Italiano: Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a traditional Mexican dish consisting of corn tortillas filled with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese, beans, or vegetables, rolled up and covered in chile sauce. They are typically baked and served with toppings like sour cream, cheese, cilantro, and onions. Enchiladas can be spicy or mild, depending on the type of sauce used, such as red, green, or mole sauce.

Description

Enchiladas are believed to have originated from the Aztecs, who would wrap corn tortillas around fish and cover them with a chili sauce. Over time, the dish evolved and became a staple of Mexican cuisine. Enchiladas are highly versatile, with countless regional variations and fillings. Some popular types include:

• Enchiladas Rojas: Made with a red chili sauce, usually mild to medium spicy.
• Enchiladas Verdes: Prepared with a green tomatillo sauce for a tangy and slightly spicy flavour.
• Enchiladas de Mole: Covered in rich, chocolate-infused mole sauce for a deep, complex taste.
• Enchiladas Suizas: Topped with a creamy, cheese-based sauce.

Recipe

Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce

Ingredients:

• 10 corn tortillas
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 2 cups red enchilada sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro and sour cream (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the onion until softened. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 3–4 minutes.
3. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave to make them pliable.
4. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
5. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and a small handful of shredded cheese. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sour cream before serving.

Application Areas

• Home Cooking: Enchiladas are a family favourite and easy to customize with different fillings.
• Street Food: In Mexico, enchiladas are popular street food, often served with rice and beans.
• Restaurants: Featured in both traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, enchiladas are a common menu item.
• Party Food: Perfect for gatherings and potlucks, as they can be made in large quantities and reheated.

Summary

Enchiladas are a delicious and versatile dish deeply rooted in Mexican cuisine. Whether filled with chicken, beef, beans, or vegetables, and covered in a variety of sauces, enchiladas offer endless possibilities for flavour combinations. This dish is both comforting and vibrant, making it a favourite around the world.

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