Crispy Chilaquiles: A Delicious Latin American Classic

I’ll never forget the first time I tried chilaquiles. I had heard about this traditional Mexican dish, but I was curious to experience the flavors for myself. As soon as I took the first bite, I knew I was in for something special. The combination of crispy tortilla chips, simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce, was truly amazing. Topped off with a range of toppings, from cheese to eggs and more, it’s no wonder chilaquiles is such a popular dish. If you’re looking for a delicious and flavorful meal, chilaquiles is definitely the way to go.

Chilaquiles Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 (7 ounce) cans diced green chiles
• 12 (6-inch) corn tortillas, cut into strips
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives

Instructions

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
• Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
• Add the cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, and diced green chiles to the pan. Simmer for 5 minutes.
• Add the tortilla strips and cook for another 5 minutes.
• Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and olives.
• Transfer the chilaquiles to a serving dish and let cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 454
• Total Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 91mg
• Sodium: 656mg
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 30g

What is chilaquiles?

Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican dish made from lightly fried corn tortillas cut into quarters and topped with green or red salsa. It is often served with eggs, chicken, and cheese. It is also a popular brunch dish in Mexico and the United States.

The origin of chilaquiles is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in Mexico in the pre-Hispanic era. The dish is believed to have been developed as a way to use up stale tortillas, which were fried and then covered with a spicy sauce.

Chilaquiles are usually served at breakfast or brunch and are a simple and inexpensive way to feed a large group of people. The dish can be made as a light meal or enjoyed as part of a larger meal. The dish can be served with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, beans, eggs, or chicken. It is also commonly served with a side of Mexican-style beans and rice.

The dish is typically made with yellow or white corn tortillas, which are fried and then broken into pieces. These pieces are then topped with a salsa made from either fresh or canned tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chili peppers. This salsa can be either mild or spicy, depending on the desired flavor. The dish is then topped with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, eggs, and chicken. Finally, the dish is garnished with fresh cilantro, onions, and Mexican-style crema.

Chilaquiles is a delightful and flavorful dish that is easy to make and can be enjoyed as part of a larger meal. It is a great way to use up stale tortillas, and it is perfect for feeding a large group of people.

What are some of the health benefits of chilaquiles?

Chilaquiles are a traditional Mexican dish composed of crispy fried tortilla chips, salsa or mole, and cheese.

• There are numerous health benefits associated with chilaquiles, including improved digestion, cardiovascular health, and blood glucose regulation.
• Eating chilaquiles can help to improve digestion because the ingredients are high in dietary fiber. This helps to reduce constipation, improve bowel movement, and promote better digestion.
• The combination of fried tortilla chips, salsa, and cheese also provides important vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium, and selenium. These nutrients are essential for cardiovascular health and optimal blood glucose regulation.
• Additionally, chilaquiles are a great source of protein, which can help to promote muscle growth and repair. The protein also helps to keep you feeling full for longer, making chilaquiles an ideal food for weight management.
• Finally, chilaquiles are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those trying to lose weight. The combination of healthy fats, carbohydrates, and proteins found in chilaquiles can help to keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day.

What are the main ingredients used in making chilaquiles?

The main ingredients used in making chilaquiles are tortillas, salsa, and cheese.

Chilaquiles are a traditional Mexican dish that is often eaten for breakfast or brunch. They are made from lightly fried corn tortilla strips that are topped with a red or green salsa and then topped with cheese. The dish can be served with a variety of other ingredients such as refried beans, eggs, and/or sour cream, depending on the region and personal preference.

The fried tortilla strips known as totopos are an essential part of chilaquiles. Traditionally, they are made from fried corn tortillas that have been cut into strips. They are then lightly fried in oil and topped with salsa.

The salsa is usually either a red or green salsa made from a variety of ingredients including tomatoes, onions, chiles, garlic, and fresh herbs. The salsa adds a delicious flavor and texture to the chilaquiles.

Finally, the dish is topped with cheese. This can be either a Mexican cheese such as queso fresco, or a more common cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.

Chilaquiles are a delicious, traditional Mexican dish that is sure to please any crowd. With only a few simple ingredients, you can easily make this dish at home.

What are the different ways to serve chilaquiles?

Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican dish, and there are many different ways to serve it. Some of the most popular ways to serve chilaquiles include with eggs, with salsa verde, with crema, with nopales, and with shredded chicken.

Chilaquiles with eggs is a classic breakfast dish. It is made by layering corn tortillas with salsa, cheese, and eggs, and then baking it until the eggs are cooked through. Toppings such as fresh cilantro, diced onions, and sliced jalapenos can be added to taste.

Chilaquiles with salsa verde is a popular dish for lunch or dinner. It is made by layering corn tortillas with salsa verde, cheese, and shredded chicken. The dish is then baked until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.

Chilaquiles with crema is a creamy, comforting version of the dish. It is prepared by layering corn tortillas with cheese, salsa, and crema. The dish is then baked until the cheese is melted and the crema is heated through.

Chilaquiles with nopales is a healthier version of the dish. It is made by layering corn tortillas with salsa, cheese, and nopales (cactus pads). The dish is then baked until the cheese is melted and the nopales are cooked through.

Chilaquiles with shredded chicken is a hearty version of the dish. It is prepared by layering corn tortillas with salsa, cheese, and shredded chicken. The dish is then baked until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through.

No matter which way you choose to serve chilaquiles, it is sure to be a delicious, comforting meal.

What are the regional variations of chilaquiles?

Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican dish that varies from region to region. Depending on the region, the ingredients and preparation of the dish can vary greatly from one place to the next. In some regions, the dish is made with fried tortillas and green or red salsa, while others may use scrambled eggs or shredded chicken. Some versions of the dish also include refried beans, cheese, onions, and other vegetables.

In Central Mexico, the dish is typically made with fried tortillas, green salsa, and cheese. The dish is usually served with refried beans and a side of crema or sour cream. In the southern state of Oaxaca, chilaquiles are made with dried chiles, garlic, and tomatoes, and can either be served with chicken or as a vegetarian option. In the northern state of Coahuila, the dish is made with fried tortillas, red sauce, and a combination of ingredients like beans, cheese, and shredded chicken.

In the state of Veracruz, the dish is served with green salsa and includes a variety of ingredients such as eggs, shredded chicken, and cheese. In the Yucatán Peninsula, the dish is most commonly served with scrambled eggs, fried tortilla strips, and a spicy red sauce. In the state of Zacatecas, the dish is made with fried tortillas, red sauce, and a combination of ingredients like shredded chicken, potatoes, and cheese.

No matter what region you find yourself in, chilaquiles are sure to be a delicious and filling meal. With so many variations of the dish, you are sure to find one that fits your taste.

What side dishes go well with chilaquiles?

When it comes to the classic Mexican dish, chilaquiles, there are a variety of side dishes that can be served to complete the meal. Popular sides to go along with chilaquiles include refried beans, guacamole, nopalitos, and a fresh green salad.

Refried beans are a traditional accompaniment to chilaquiles, as they are a staple of Mexican cuisine and bring additional flavor and texture to the dish. For a tasty variation, try using black beans instead of the traditional pinto beans. Guacamole is also a common side dish for chilaquiles and adds a creamy, flavorful contrast to the dish.

Nopalitos, or cactus leaves, are another great side to serve with chilaquiles. This traditional Mexican dish is made with diced nopales, onions, garlic and tomatoes, and is a fantastic way to add more vegetables to the meal. A fresh green salad is another simple side dish that can be served with chilaquiles. Add a little lime juice and chili powder to really bring out the flavors of the dish.

For a complete Mexican meal, try pairing chilaquiles with one of these delicious sides. Whether you choose refried beans, guacamole, nopalitos, or a simple green salad, these side dishes are sure to complement the flavors of the chilaquiles perfectly.

What are some creative ways to enjoy chilaquiles?

One creative way to enjoy chilaquiles is to combine them with breakfast foods. This can be done by topping the chilaquiles with scrambled eggs, diced bell peppers, and melted cheese. For extra flavor, you could also add some diced onions, jalapenos, and Mexican-style hot sauce. This dish is perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast.

Another creative way to enjoy chilaquiles is to use them in a layered dip. Start by spreading a thin layer of chilaquiles on the bottom of a shallow dish, followed by a layer of refried beans, your favorite salsa, and then a layer of melted cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly and then enjoy with tortilla chips.

Finally, you can use chilaquiles to make an inventive version of nachos. Start by topping tortilla chips with chilaquiles and then add all of your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and then enjoy with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro.