Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a traditional Mexican dish consisting of a corn tortilla rolled around a filling and covered with a chili pepper sauce. The fillings can include a variety of ingredients, such as meats, cheese, beans, potatoes, vegetables, or combinations thereof.

History

The origin of Enchiladas dates back to Mayan times, when people in the Valley of Mexico would eat corn tortillas wrapped around small fish. These early forms of enchiladas were documented by Spanish conquistadors.

Preparation

The preparation of enchiladas begins with the tortillas. In traditional Mexican cooking, corn tortillas are used, which are made from masa harina, a type of corn flour. The tortillas are lightly fried before being filled and rolled.

The filling for enchiladas can vary widely, but typically includes some type of protein, such as chicken, beef, or cheese. Vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, or potatoes, may also be included.

The rolled tortillas are then covered with a chili pepper sauce, which can range in flavor from mild to very spicy. The sauce is typically made from chili peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and various spices.

Finally, the enchiladas are baked until the sauce is bubbling and the filling is heated through. They are often garnished with additional ingredients, such as cilantro, sour cream, or guacamole, before serving.

Varieties

There are many varieties of enchiladas, which can vary by region, ingredients, and preparation method. Some of the most popular types include:

• Enchiladas rojas: These "red" enchiladas are covered with a red chili pepper sauce.
• Enchiladas verdes: These "green" enchiladas are covered with a green sauce, typically made from tomatillos and green chili peppers.
• Enchiladas suizas: These "Swiss" enchiladas are topped with a creamy white sauce, often made from cream and cheese.

In popular culture

Enchiladas are a popular dish in both Mexico and the United States, and they have been featured in numerous films, television shows, and books. They are often associated with Mexican-American culture and cuisine.

See also

• Mexican cuisine
• Taco
• Burrito
• Quesadilla