UFO Enchiladas: A Family Recipe Inspired by Santa Fe
Embark on a culinary adventure with this unique and flavorful recipe for UFO Enchiladas, a delightful dish that brings a touch of Santa Fe into your kitchen. Originating from a family tradition rooted in the vibrant flavors of New Mexico, these enchiladas are not only satisfying but also packed with a combination of savory ingredients and a special fried egg on top that elevates them to new heights. This recipe captures the essence of homemade cooking, reflecting the creative spirit of my father who learned to make these without a fixed recipe, allowing for delightful improvisation and a personal touch.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Recipe Category: Meat
- Keywords: Mexican, < 4 Hours
Description
These UFO Enchiladas come to life with a blend of ground beef, savory spices, and a creamy sauce that envelops corn tortillas and cheese. A special chili powder from Chimayo adds an aromatic punch, making each bite a burst of flavor. The fried egg perched atop the enchilada is a nod to my father’s original creation, providing a rich, indulgent finish that is both unique and delicious. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner, inviting you to share in the warmth of a beloved family recipe.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Tomato sauce | 2 cups |
| Chili powder | ½ – 1 ½ cups |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 4 tablespoons |
| Corn tortillas | 12 |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Iceberg lettuce | ½ head, chopped |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 684.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 37.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 322.2 mg |
| Sodium | 1947.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 49.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g |
| Sugars | 14.7 g |
| Protein | 41.5 g |
Instructions
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Brown the Beef and Onion: Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with three-quarters of the chopped onion. Cook the mixture until the beef is browned and the onion has softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Reserve the remaining onion for garnishing later if desired.
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Prepare the Sauce: Once the beef is browned, add the tomato sauce and the desired amount of chili powder to the pot. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the sauce in the pot, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, which should take around 10 minutes.
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Fry the Tortillas: In a skillet just slightly larger than the tortillas, heat a generous amount of oil over medium heat until hot. Carefully slide one tortilla into the oil, frying it for about 5 seconds on each side. Be cautious not to let them become too crisp; the goal is to soften them. Use a slotted spatula to remove the tortilla and place it on a plate. Spread some of the prepared sauce over the top and sprinkle with a quarter cup of cheddar cheese.
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Layer the Enchiladas: Repeat the process with another layer of tortillas, followed by more sauce and cheese. Aim for about two layers of tortillas, sauce, and cheese to create a hearty dish.
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Fry the Eggs: In the same skillet, carefully crack an egg into the hot oil. Using a spatula, gently splash hot oil over the egg to cook the white while keeping the yolk intact. This technique will ensure that the egg cooks evenly. After a minute or so, scoop the egg out of the oil and place it delicately on top of the prepared enchiladas.
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Garnish and Serve: Scatter some of the remaining chopped lettuce and onions around the plate for added freshness and a pop of color.
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Enjoy: Serve the UFO Enchiladas hot, allowing everyone to dive into this flavor-packed dish that is sure to become a favorite at your dining table.
These UFO Enchiladas not only deliver on flavor but also tell a story of family heritage and creativity in the kitchen, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy this unique and satisfying dish with family and friends, and feel the warmth of New Mexico come alive in every bite!
