Tacos Enchilados
Introduction to Tacos Enchilados
Tacos Enchilados, a beloved Mexican dish, combines the flavorful richness of enchiladas with the convenience of tacos. This dish brings together the best of both worlds, offering a taste that will delight those seeking traditional Mexican flavors with a twist. Tacos Enchilados reportedly date back to street vendors in Mexico who experimented with creating a fusion that could satisfy the cravings of locals and tourists alike.
History and Origin
The origins of Tacos Enchilados can be traced to central Mexico. As is common with many traditional Mexican dishes, the recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, gaining popularity across borders. Enchiladas themselves have their roots in ancient Mexican culture, where tortillas were wrapped around fish. Over time, the versatility of both the enchilada and taco allowed for an exciting culinary evolution that eventually led to Tacos Enchilados.
Ingredients
Below are the key ingredients required to prepare Tacos Enchilados:
- Corn tortillas: 8 medium-sized
- Chicken breast: 2 pieces, cooked and shredded
- Enchilada sauce: 2 cups
- Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Jalapeno: 1, diced
- Cilantro: Fresh, chopped, for garnish
- Lime: 2 pieces, cut into wedges for serving
- Salt: to taste
- Black pepper: to taste
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Preparation
Preparing the Chicken Filling
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, followed by salt and black pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Pour in half of the enchilada sauce and mix well with the chicken and onion mixture. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes.
Preparing the Tacos Enchilados
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Warm the corn tortillas in a dry pan over medium heat until they are pliable.
Fill each corn tortilla with 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling and a sprinkle of cheese, then roll them up tightly.
Arrange the rolled tortillas in a baking dish seam side down.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled corn tortillas.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is bubbling. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the time.
Serving Suggestions
Once the Tacos Enchilados are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added zest. These flavorful delights pair well with sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad.
Enjoying Tacos Enchilados
To best enjoy Tacos Enchilados, gather your loved ones around the table and dig in while they’re still hot. The melted cheese, warm enchilada sauce, and perfectly seasoned chicken offer a tantalizing taste experience. Complement your meal with a refreshing glass of horchata or a traditional Mexican beverage like agua fresca.