Chilaquiles

Delicious homemade Chilaquiles are a perfect dish for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This comforting recipe features crispy corn tortillas tossed in a rich homemade chilaquiles sauce. Topped with queso fresco, crema, and optional ingredients like avocado and fried eggs, it’s a versatile meal that can easily impress your family or guests. Whether you’re looking for a hearty start to your day or a satisfying dinner option, this dish has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, making chilaquiles is straightforward and quick.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of guajillo and arbol chiles creates a unique flavor that elevates this dish beyond ordinary breakfast fare.
• Customizable: You can easily tailor your chilaquiles with different toppings like avocado, chicken, or beans to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a festive gathering, chilaquiles fit the bill perfectly.
• Satisfying and Filling: With crispy tortillas and protein-rich toppings, this dish will keep you full and happy.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most delicious chilaquiles, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you will need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Blender
• Saucepan
• Slotted spoon
• Fine mesh strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Ideal for frying the tortillas to achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Blender: Essential for creating smooth sauces from the soaked chiles and tomatillos.
• Fine mesh strainer: Helps to ensure a silky-smooth sauce by removing any solids.

Ingredients

Delicious homemade Chilaquiles recipe with crispy corn tortillas tossed in a homemade chilaquiles sauce and topped with queso fresco and crema.

Tortillas

• 15 white corn tortillas, preferably older/stale

Oils & Broths

• oil, for frying
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth (474g)

Chiles & Spices

• 7 dried guajillo chiles
• 4 dried arbol chiles
• ¼ teaspoon whole cumin seeds
• ¼ teaspoon Mexican oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt, or more, to taste

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 3 tomatillos, medium size, outer leaf removed, washed
• 3 cloves garlic
• ½ small onion, sliced thinly
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (4g)

Toppings

• 1/3 cup crumbled Queso fresco (40g)
• ¼ cup Mexican crema (56g), or sour cream
• 1 avocado, chopped
• 5 eggs, fried
• 15 ounce can black refried beans, warmed
• 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken, for heartier dinner option

How to Make Chilaquiles

Step 1: Fry Tortillas

Cut corn tortillas into 6 wedges. Allow them to dry on the counter for a few hours or overnight if possible. Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once hot:
1. Add the tortilla wedges in batches.
2. Fry until crisp, turning them once or twice.
3. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Soak Dried Chiles

Using scissors, cut open the dried chiles to remove veins and seeds. Place them in a saucepan:
1. Cover with water.
2. Bring to boil then reduce heat to simmer.
3. Cook until softened, about 20-30 minutes.

Step 3: Blend Salsa Verde

While the chiles cook:
1. In a blender, combine 1/3 cup chicken broth, garlic, oregano, and cumin seeds.
2. Blend well until combined.
3. Add tomatillos and ¼ cup fresh cilantro; blend until smooth.

Step 4: Simmer Sauce

In another saucepan:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onion; cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Remove onions from the pot then pour in green tomatillo sauce from the blender.
4. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Blend Red Chiles

Once red chiles are soft:
1. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from their liquid.
2. Place them in the blender with 1 cup chicken broth; blend until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Sauces

Pour red chile sauce through a fine mesh strainer into the pot with green sauce:
1. Use a spoon to press it through effectively.
2. Season with salt; simmer for another 10 minutes.
3. Add an additional 2/3 cup chicken broth; continue simmering for about 20 minutes.

Step 7: Add Tortillas

Add the crispy tortillas into the prepared sauce:
1. Toss gently until all pieces are well coated.

Step 8: Serve

Divide your delicious chilaquiles onto plates:
– Sprinkle with queso fresco.
– Top with sautéed onions, drizzle of crema, chopped avocado, and chicken if desired.
– Serve alongside warm black refried beans topped with fried eggs for an extra treat!

How to Serve Chilaquiles

Chilaquiles are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, these delicious layers of flavor can be customized easily.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Sliced Avocado: A creamy addition that complements the crispiness of the tortillas.
• Queso Fresco: Crumbled cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor that enhances the dish.
• Mexican Crema: A drizzle of crema provides a rich and smooth texture on top.

Pair with Eggs

• Sunny Side Up Eggs: The runny yolks add richness and depth to the dish.
• Fried Eggs: Crispy edges and soft centers make for a perfect pairing with chilaquiles.

Include Protein

• Shredded Chicken: For a heartier meal, add tender shredded chicken to the mix.
• Refried Beans: Serve alongside warm black refried beans for extra protein and fiber.

Garnish with Herbs

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds brightness and freshness to each bite.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice can elevate flavors and add zest.

How to Perfect Chilaquiles

Making perfect chilaquiles is all about balance and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Stale Tortillas: Older tortillas absorb sauce better without becoming too soggy.
• Control Oil Temperature: Ensure oil is hot enough for frying so that the tortillas become crispy and golden.
• Soak Chiles Properly: Let dried chiles soften completely for a smoother sauce consistency.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste your sauce as you go; it should have a balance of heat and flavor.
• Serve Immediately: Chilaquiles are best enjoyed fresh, so serve them right after mixing with the sauce.
• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add other toppings like radishes or pickled onions for extra flavor!

Best Side Dishes for Chilaquiles

Chilaquiles can be complemented with a variety of side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes for a filling side dish.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans add protein and richness, balancing the meal beautifully.
3. Fresh Salsa: A zesty salsa brings brightness and additional texture to your plate.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition when grilled alongside your main dish.
5. Corn Elote: Sweet corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, and chili powder makes for a delightful side.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides crunch and coolness against spicy flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chilaquiles can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using fresh tortillas: Fresh tortillas can become soggy quickly. Instead, use older or stale corn tortillas for the best texture.
• Overcooking the sauce: Simmering the sauce too long can make it bitter. Keep an eye on it and taste regularly to ensure optimal flavor.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoned chilaquiles can taste bland. Make sure to adjust the salt and spices to your liking for a vibrant dish.
• Skipping the frying step: Skipping the frying or crisping of tortillas leads to mushy chilaquiles. Ensure they are crispy before tossing them in the sauce.
• Neglecting toppings: Chilaquiles are meant to be topped with delicious extras. Don’t forget the crema, queso fresco, and avocado for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chilaquiles in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will last for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chilaquiles

• Chilaquiles can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the tortillas.
• Use freezer-safe containers and keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chilaquiles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chilaquiles on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chilaquiles in a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth with chilaquiles. Stir gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making chilaquiles.

What are Chilaquiles?

Chilaquiles are a traditional Mexican dish made with fried corn tortillas simmered in a flavorful sauce, typically topped with cheese and crema.

Can I make Chilaquiles ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately from the tortillas. This way, you can enjoy freshly cooked chilaquiles whenever you want.

How do I customize my Chilaquiles?

You can customize chilaquiles by adding proteins like shredded chicken or eggs, incorporating different toppings like beans or salsa, or using various types of cheese.

Is this an authentic Chilaquiles recipe?

Yes! This recipe uses traditional ingredients and techniques that stay true to authentic Mexican flavors while allowing for personal adjustments.

Can I make vegetarian Chilaquiles?

Absolutely! Simply omit any meat and load up on your favorite vegetables and plant-based toppings for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Chilaquiles are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for breakfast or any meal of the day. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite toppings or ingredients. Whether you prefer it spicy, cheesy, or loaded with fresh veggies, homemade chilaquiles will surely please everyone at your table!