Green Enchiladas

Name: Green Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 10 corn tortillas; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup green enchilada sauce; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1 small onion (diced); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped tomatoes for garnish

Looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your table? Green enchiladas are the answer! These rolled tortillas, filled with savory ingredients and covered in a zesty green sauce, are not only mouthwatering but also versatile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving comfort food, green enchiladas are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients

10 corn tortillas
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or beans for a vegetarian option)
1 cup green enchilada sauce
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 small onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped tomatoes for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 enchilada) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g of protein, 12g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 3g of fiber. This is based on a serving size of one enchilada.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until translucent.
Add the shredded chicken (or beans) to the skillet and mix well with the onion.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave for easier rolling.
Spread a layer of green enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and roll them tightly.
Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining green sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Alternative Ingredients

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using shredded beef or sautéed vegetables as filling. For a dairy-free option, replace cheese with nutritional yeast and use vegan sour cream.

Serving and Pairings

Green enchiladas can be served with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. Top with additional cilantro, diced avocado, or jalapeños for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover green enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enchiladas can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.

Cooking Mistakes

Overfilling the tortillas can lead to tearing.
Not warming tortillas makes them brittle and hard to roll.
Using too much sauce can make the dish soggy.
Forgetting to cover the dish while baking may dry out the enchiladas.
Not seasoning the filling adequately can result in bland enchiladas.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh tortillas for the best texture.
Experiment with different proteins or vegetables for variety.
Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh lime juice for added zest.

FAQs

Can I make green enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the enchiladas and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute shredded beef, pulled pork, or even sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a vegetarian option.

How spicy are green enchiladas?

The spice level depends on the green enchilada sauce you choose. You can make it milder by using a sauce labeled ‘mild’ or combining it with sour cream.

Can I freeze green enchiladas?

Yes, green enchiladas can be frozen before baking. Just cover tightly and they can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

What toppings go well with green enchiladas?

Popular toppings include sour cream, avocado, fresh cilantro, and diced tomatoes for added freshness and flavor.

Conclusion

Green enchiladas are a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to customize and can cater to various dietary preferences. Enjoy making this classic recipe and share the joy of Mexican cuisine with family and friends!