Introduction:
Enchiladas Rojas are a classic Mexican dish, known for their vibrant red sauce made from dried chiles.
The name “rojas” refers to the red color of the sauce.
These enchiladas are filled with delicious ingredients like shredded chicken, beef, or cheese, rolled in soft corn tortillas, and smothered in a rich, spicy red sauce.
This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the Red Sauce:
4-5 dried guajillo chilies, seeds removed
2-3 dried ancho chilies
2 cloves of garlic
1 small onion, chopped
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp oregano
Salt to taste
1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Enchiladas:
10-12 corn tortillas
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or beef, or cheese)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup sour cream (optional for garnish)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Red Sauce:
Start by rinsing the dried chilies. In a hot skillet or on a comal, toast the chilies lightly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
In a bowl, cover the toasted chilies with hot water and let them soak for about 10 minutes until soft.
Drain the chilies and place them in a blender with garlic, onion, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Pour the blended sauce into the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Adjust salt to taste.
Prepare the Tortillas:
Heat the tortillas lightly on a griddle or in a skillet to make them pliable, about 10-15 seconds on each side.
Assemble the Enchiladas:
Dip each tortilla into the red sauce, making sure it’s well-coated.
Place a spoonful of shredded chicken (or beef) and some cheese in the center of each tortilla. Roll them up and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
Repeat this process for all tortillas, placing the rolled enchiladas in the dish.
Bake the Enchiladas:
Pour the remaining red sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese and onions on top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Garnish with sour cream and chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve hot with rice, beans, or a fresh salad.
Description: Homemade Enchiladas Rojas are a perfect blend of spicy, savory, and cheesy goodness. The rich, smoky flavor of the red sauce combined with the tender fillings in each tortilla creates a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or at a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its authentic taste and comforting appeal.
Tips:
For a smoother sauce: Blend the ingredients for the sauce longer until you get a velvety consistency.
Make-ahead: You can prepare the sauce and filling ahead of time. Assemble the enchiladas just before baking.
To reduce spice level: If you prefer a milder sauce, remove the seeds and veins from the chilies before soaking.
Crispier tortillas: Lightly fry the tortillas in hot oil before dipping them in the sauce for a crispier texture.
Variations:
Vegetarian Enchiladas: Use beans, roasted vegetables, or a combination of both in place of meat.
Cheese-only Enchiladas: Skip the meat and fill your tortillas with just cheese, adding some fresh herbs and onions for extra flavor.
Beef Enchiladas: Ground beef or shredded beef is another delicious filling choice.
Add Toppings: Sautéed bell peppers, olives, or sliced jalapeños are great toppings.
Corrections:
If the sauce becomes too thick during cooking, simply add a little more broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
If the enchiladas are too dry, you can add more sauce to the top before baking, ensuring they stay moist.
Enjoy: Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade enchiladas rojas! These enchiladas are the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy, with a satisfying depth of flavor. Enjoy with your favorite sides, or on their own, and share them with family and friends for a truly memorable meal!