Few dishes embody the soul of Mexican cuisine quite like Chilaquiles Verdes. This comforting, flavorful dish combines crispy tortilla chips, a tangy green salsa, and a variety of toppings to create something truly special. Whether you're looking for a satisfying breakfast, a hearty brunch, or even a quick lunch, chilaquiles verdes are always a great choice.
But chilaquiles are more than just food; they tell a story. Originating in traditional Mexican kitchens where nothing goes to waste, this dish was a smart way to use up leftover tortillas and salsa. It’s now a staple in Mexican households and restaurants alike, capturing the essence of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.
Now, let's bring this dish to life in your own kitchen!
What You'll Need
To make chilaquiles verdes, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and fresh produce. Here's the ingredient list for 4 hearty servings:
For the Green Salsa:
- 10 tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 2-3 serrano peppers (adjust depending on your spice tolerance)
- 1/4 cup white onion, roughly chopped
- 1-2 cloves of garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
For the Tortilla Chips:
- 12 corn tortillas
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Salt for seasoning
Toppings:
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta as a substitute)
- 1/4 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream mixed with a splash of milk)
- 2 eggs, fried or scrambled (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Sliced avocado
- Sliced radishes
- Chopped cilantro
- Thinly sliced red onion
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1. Make the Green Salsa
- Start by preparing your tomatillos and serrano peppers. Place the tomatillos and peppers in a pot of boiling water. Cook them for about 5 minutes or until the tomatillos turn a slightly olive-green color and soften.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomatillos and peppers to a blender. Add chopped onion, garlic, cilantro, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat. Pour the blended salsa into the pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Add chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Set aside.
Step 2. Prepare the Tortilla Chips
- Cut the corn tortillas into triangles (6-8 pieces per tortilla).
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the tortilla triangles in batches until they’re golden and crispy. This usually takes 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Remove the chips from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt while they’re still warm.
Short on time? You can use store-bought tortilla chips, but fresh is always best!
Step 3. Combine the Chips and Salsa
- Once your salsa is ready and your chips are crisp, it’s time to bring everything together. Heat the salsa again if needed, and carefully toss the tortilla chips into the salsa, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes if you like your chips slightly softened. For a crunchier texture, serve them immediately after tossing.
Step 4. Add Toppings and Serve
- Transfer the chilaquiles verdes to a plate or wide serving dish. Top with crumbled queso fresco, a drizzle of crema, fried or scrambled eggs (if using), and any of your favorite garnishes like avocado, radishes, or more cilantro.
- Enjoy immediately to relish the magic of crispy chips paired with tangy salsa!
Tips for the Best Chilaquiles Verdes
- If you want extra protein, add shredded chicken or beans to the dish.
- Don't skip the crema and cheese! These toppings balance the salsa’s acidity and spice beautifully.
- Customize the spiciness by adjusting the number of serrano peppers. For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes before blending.
Serving Suggestions
Chilaquiles verdes are traditionally served for breakfast or brunch, often accompanied by refried beans and a cup of hot coffee or café de olla. For larger meals, you can pair them with grilled steak or roasted vegetables.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Mexican cuisine or trying chilaquiles verdes for the first time, this recipe will win you over. Each crispy, saucy bite is a reminder of how comforting, vibrant, and satisfying home-cooked food can be.
Why not give it a try today? Your taste buds will thank you!
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