New Mexico Style Green Chili-Sour Cream Enchiladas are a tribute to the rich culinary heritage of New Mexico, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and robust ingredients. This recipe, passed down and perfected through generations, embodies the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine while incorporating personal touches that make it a cherished dish in the household.
Cooking Time and Preparation:
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, these enchiladas are ideal for a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or authenticity. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever a craving for comforting Mexican flavors strikes, the efficiency of this recipe is matched only by its deliciousness.
Ingredients:
The foundation of these enchiladas is a harmonious blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Begin with 2 cups of milk, which forms the creamy base of the sauce, complemented by 1 finely diced onion and 1 minced garlic clove to provide aromatic depth. The star of the dish, 1 1/2 cups of fresh green chilies, brings a distinctive New Mexican flair, while 1/2 cup of butter adds richness. For seasoning, include 2 teaspoons of oregano and 2 teaspoons of cumin, which infuse the dish with earthy, warming notes. Enhance the sauce with 2 cups of salsa for tanginess and depth of flavor. To achieve the creamy texture that sets these enchiladas apart, incorporate 2 cups of sour cream. Lastly, 1/2 cup of shredded cheese adds a decadent finish, balancing the heat of the chilies with its mellow creaminess.
Nutritional Highlights:
Each serving of these enchiladas delivers 481 calories, providing a satisfying meal that’s filling yet not overly heavy. They are rich in fats, with 34.5 grams of fat content, including 16.5 grams of saturated fats, contributing to their indulgent texture and flavor. With 35.1 grams of carbohydrates and 11.6 grams of protein, these enchiladas offer a balanced nutritional profile that fuels and satisfies.
Cooking Instructions:
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Sautéing Aromatics: Begin by sautéing the diced onions, minced garlic, and green chilies in butter until the onions turn translucent, releasing their savory aromas and setting the foundation for the sauce.
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Creating the Sauce: Once the vegetables are tender, add 2 cups of milk, 2 cups of salsa, and season with 2 teaspoons each of oregano and cumin. Allow the mixture to simmer over low heat for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the flavors meld together harmoniously.
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Preparing Tortillas: Meanwhile, prepare the tortillas by frying them briefly in hot oil until they soften. Alternatively, you can microwave them wrapped in a dishtowel for a few seconds to achieve the desired texture. Drain excess oil from the tortillas by placing them on paper towels.
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Incorporating Sour Cream: To enrich the sauce, stir in 2 cups of sour cream, ensuring it blends thoroughly to achieve a velvety consistency that coats each layer of the enchiladas with creamy goodness.
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Assembly: Unlike traditional rolled enchiladas, these New Mexico style enchiladas are assembled flat, akin to a stack of pancakes. Begin by placing a tortilla on an individual serving plate, generously spoon sauce over it, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat the layers according to personal preference—some may prefer three layers, while others, like the creator’s husband, may indulge in up to five layers for a hearty portion.
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Final Touch: Before serving, pop the assembled plates into the oven just long enough to melt the cheese, enhancing the dish with gooey, cheesy goodness that ties together all the flavors.
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Customization: For those craving extra protein, diced cooked chicken can be added between the layers of tortillas and sauce, elevating the dish to a heartier meal option without compromising its essence.
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Alternative Preparation: If preferred, these enchiladas can also be prepared casserole-style in a 9×13-inch baking dish, layering the tortillas, sauce, cheese, and optional chicken in a format that’s perfect for family gatherings or potluck dinners.
Conclusion:
New Mexico Style Green Chili-Sour Cream Enchiladas epitomize the fusion of tradition and innovation in Mexican cuisine, offering a taste of authentic flavors enhanced by personal touches. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or shared at festive gatherings, these enchiladas are sure to delight with their creamy texture, robust flavors, and the comforting warmth of New Mexican green chilies.
