Senor Pico’s Baked Chile Rellenos 🌶️🧀🍽️
Description
From the Senior Pico restaurant in Los Angeles, these Chile Rellenos are a delightful twist on a classic dish. Unlike the traditional fried version, these rellenos are baked to perfection, offering a healthier alternative without sacrificing any of the delicious flavors. The use of fresh peppers elevates the dish, but for convenience, canned chilies are also a viable option. Serve these with Senor Pico’s Picante Sauce for an authentic Southwestern experience. With a cook time of just 15 minutes and a prep time of 25 minutes, you’ll have these delectable rellenos ready in no time. Ideal for cheese lovers and those following a low-carb diet, this recipe is a must-try!
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 25 minutes | 15 minutes | 40 minutes |
Ingredients
- 6 whole green chilies
- 6 chilies (if using fresh, additional preparation required)
- 6 strips of Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 strips of Cheddar cheese
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- 1/4 cup of melted butter (not hot)
- 6 eggs
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 398.4
- Fat Content: 31.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 18.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 322.7mg
- Sodium Content: 489.3mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 5.3g
- Fiber Content: 0.7g
- Sugar Content: 2.8g
- Protein Content: 23.2g
Instructions
- Prepare the Chilies: Start by rinsing the chilies thoroughly and discarding the seeds. If you’re using fresh chilies, you’ll need to roast them first until the skins blister, then peel off the skins.
- Stuff the Chilies: Cut a slit down one side of each chili and insert one strip of Monterey Jack cheese and one strip of Cheddar cheese into each chili. This blend of cheeses will give a rich, creamy texture with a slight tang.
- Coat with Flour: Dust each stuffed chili lightly with flour. This helps the egg mixture adhere better and adds a slight crispiness to the final dish.
- Prepare the Egg Batter: Separate the eggs, placing the whites in one bowl and the yolks in another. Beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. In a separate bowl, beat the yolks and then gently fold them into the whites. Once combined, carefully fold in the melted butter. Make sure the butter isn’t hot, as it could deflate the egg mixture.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Generously grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Pour a thick layer of the egg batter into the bottom of the dish.
- Assemble and Bake: Place the stuffed chilies on top of the batter in the baking dish. Spoon the remaining batter over the chilies, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 minutes or until the batter is set and lightly golden.
- Serve: Top the baked rellenos with Senor Pico’s Picante Sauce or your favorite salsa. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, flavorful delight!
Tips for the Best Chile Rellenos
- Choosing Chilies: If you have the option, go for fresh poblano peppers as they provide a robust flavor and perfect size for stuffing. However, canned green chilies are a great time-saving alternative.
- Cheese Selection: While Monterey Jack and Cheddar are the recommended choices for their meltability and taste, you can experiment with other cheeses like Queso Fresco or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Egg Mixture: Ensure your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks to achieve a light, airy batter. This step is crucial for the texture of the baked rellenos.
- Baking Dish Prep: Greasing the baking dish generously prevents the batter from sticking and makes serving easier.
Serving Suggestions
These baked chile rellenos are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways:
- With Rice and Beans: A traditional accompaniment that complements the flavors of the rellenos perfectly.
- As a Topping: Serve the rellenos atop a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
- With a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal option.
- Breakfast Option: Believe it or not, these rellenos make a fantastic breakfast when served with a side of scrambled eggs and avocado.
Customization Ideas
- Spice Level: If you like it hot, consider adding a slice of jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes inside the chilies.
- Meat Lovers: Add a layer of cooked chorizo or ground beef inside the chilies for an added protein boost.
- Vegetarian Delight: Enhance the veggie content by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or corn to the stuffing.
Making it a Feast
For a complete meal experience, you might want to prepare a few additional dishes to complement your chile rellenos:
- Guacamole and Chips: Fresh guacamole with crispy tortilla chips makes for a perfect starter.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn topped with mayo, cheese, and chili powder adds a delightful street food element to your meal.
- Horchata: A traditional Mexican drink made from rice, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon, which is refreshing and pairs wonderfully with the spicy, cheesy rellenos.
Picante Sauce Recipe
To make Senor Pico’s Picante Sauce, you will need:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all the ingredients in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until you reach your desired consistency—chunky or smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with your chile rellenos for an authentic touch!
Conclusion
Senor Pico’s Baked Chile Rellenos are a fantastic dish that brings the flavors of Los Angeles’ renowned restaurant right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only delicious but also healthier thanks to the baking method. Whether you’re serving these for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or simply craving a cheesy, spicy treat, they are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Southwestern goodness in every bite! 🌶️🧀🍴
