If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, then you’re in for a treat with this article. We’ll be taking a closer look at one classic dish that will undoubtedly make your taste buds sing: Enchiladas Suizas. But hold on, we won’t stop there. We’ll also be exploring a mouthwatering lineup of Mexican delicacies, from Tacos al Pastor to Churros with Chocolate Dipping Sauce. So get ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with vibrant flavors, rich spices, and a whole lot of deliciousness. Let’s dive in and savor the wonders of Mexican cuisine!
Enchiladas Suizas
Enchiladas Suizas, also known as Swiss Enchiladas, is a delicious and flavorful Mexican dish that combines the traditional flavors of enchiladas with a creamy and tangy twist. This dish is made with corn tortillas filled with shredded chicken or cheese, and then smothered in a creamy salsa verde and topped with cheese. It is named “Suizas” because it is said to be inspired by the Swiss immigrants who settled in Mexico and introduced the use of dairy products in Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients
To make Enchiladas Suizas, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken, or 2 cups of grated cheese for a vegetarian option
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups of salsa verde
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until they become soft and aromatic.
- If you are using shredded chicken, add it to the skillet and cook until heated through. If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip this step and proceed to the next.
- Warm the corn tortillas by placing them directly over a low flame on a gas stove or in a hot skillet for a few seconds on each side until they become pliable.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the salsa verde over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
- Dip each tortilla into the simmering salsa verde to coat it on both sides, then transfer it to a plate.
- Place a spoonful of the shredded chicken or grated cheese onto each tortilla and roll it up tightly.
- Arrange the filled enchiladas in a baking dish and pour the remaining salsa verde over them.
- Spread the sour cream over the top of the enchiladas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Serving Tips
Enchiladas Suizas can be served as a main dish accompanied by Mexican rice and beans or a simple salad. For a complete meal, you can also include some traditional Mexican sides like guacamole and chips, or Mexican street corn (elote). The creamy and tangy flavors of Enchiladas Suizas make it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. Serve it with a side of refried beans and a cold Mexican beer for a truly authentic experience.
Variations
While the traditional Enchiladas Suizas recipe calls for shredded chicken or cheese filling, there are many variations that you can try to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few ideas:
- Seafood Enchiladas Suizas: Replace the chicken or cheese with cooked shrimp or crabmeat for a seafood twist. Top with a creamy chipotle sauce for added flavor.
- Vegetarian Enchiladas Suizas: Omit the chicken and use a combination of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini as the filling. You can even add some spinach or mushrooms for extra taste.
- Spicy Enchiladas Suizas: For those who like a kick of heat, add some finely chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling. You can also top the enchiladas with sliced chili peppers before baking.
- Gluten-free Enchiladas Suizas: Use gluten-free corn tortillas to make this dish suitable for people with gluten intolerances or celiac disease.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own version of Enchiladas Suizas that suits your taste and dietary needs.
History
The origin of Enchiladas Suizas can be traced back to the Swiss immigrants who settled in Mexico in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These immigrants brought with them their love of dairy products, such as cheese and cream, which eventually influenced Mexican cuisine.
In Mexico, the Swiss immigrants’ love for cheese and cream merged with the traditional flavors of enchiladas, resulting in the creation of Enchiladas Suizas. The dish gained popularity due to its creamy and tangy flavors, as well as its versatility to accommodate different fillings, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Today, Enchiladas Suizas can be found in Mexican restaurants worldwide, showcasing the rich fusion of Swiss and Mexican culinary traditions. Whether you prefer the classic version with shredded chicken or the vegetarian option with melted cheese, Enchiladas Suizas is a delicious and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine.