How to Make Enchiladas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Enchiladas are a beloved Mexican dish known for their delicious flavors and comforting qualities. These rolled tortillas, filled with a variety of ingredients and smothered in a flavorful sauce, are a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and dinner parties alike. If you’re eager to learn how to make enchiladas from scratch, you’re in the right place. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making enchiladas that are sure to impress. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

To make enchiladas, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or your choice of protein)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt to taste

For the Assembly:

• 8-10 large tortillas (corn or flour)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (for topping)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped fresh cilantro

Equipment

To make enchiladas, you will need the following equipment:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Now that we have our ingredients and equipment ready, let’s proceed with the step-by-step instructions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat some oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pan and cook until they become soft and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and chili powder to the pan. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shredded chicken (or your choice of protein), corn kernels, and black beans to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all the ingredients and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
5. Remove the pan from the heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the flour to the pan and whisk it continuously for a minute or two to create a roux.
3. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, and dried oregano to the pan. Whisk the spices into the roux until well combined.
4. Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Season the sauce with salt to taste. Remove the pan from the heat and set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spoon a small amountof the sauce onto the bottom of a baking dish and spread it evenly.
3. Take one tortilla and place it on a flat surface.
4. Spoon a generous amount of the filling mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a border around the edges.
5. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, folding in the sides as you go.
6. Place the rolled enchilada seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling, lining up the rolled enchiladas side by side in the baking dish.

Step 4: Cover with Sauce and Cheese

1. Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the rolled enchiladas, spreading it evenly to cover them completely.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the sauce, covering the enchiladas evenly.
3. If desired, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and garnish.

Step 5: Bake the Enchiladas

1. Place the baking dish with the assembled enchiladas in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.
3. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the enchiladas hot, garnished with optional toppings such as sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and chopped fresh cilantro.
2. Accompany the enchiladas with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a side salad for a complete meal.
3. Enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of your homemade enchiladas!

Tips and Variations

• You can customize the filling by using different proteins such as beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu, depending on your dietary preferences.
• Feel free to add additional ingredients to the filling, such as diced tomatoes, green chilies, or sliced olives, to enhance the flavor and texture.
• If you prefer spicier enchiladas, you can add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or extra chili powder to the filling or sauce.
• For a vegetarian or vegan option, you can omit the meat and use additional vegetables or substitute with plant-based protein.
• Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Making enchiladas from scratch is a rewarding culinary experience that allows you to savor the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a delicious batch of enchiladas filled with your choice of protein, vegetables, and smothered in a homemade sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, enchiladas are sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds. So gather your ingredients, roll up those tortillas, and enjoy the savory delight of homemade enchiladas!