Enchiladas Recipe

Enchiladas Recipe:

Enchiladas are a popular and flavorful Mexican dish that consists of rolled tortillas filled with various fillings and covered in a savory sauce. This versatile dish can be made in numerous ways, using different ingredients and sauces. In this recipe, we will be using a traditional method to make enchiladas, filled with a savory sausage mixture and topped with a tangy and spicy sauce.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

For Tortillas:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup wheat flour
- Water

For Filling:
- 1 cup ground sausage
- 1/2 grated onion
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons drippings (from cooking the sausage)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup soup stock
- 1 cup strained tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Spanish pepper sauce (adjust to taste)

Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapenos

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, wheat flour, and enough water to form a smooth dough. The dough should be pliable and not too sticky. Add more water or flour, as needed. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it is well combined. Cover the dough and set it aside to rest for 15-20 minutes.

2. While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, sauté the grated onion until softened and slightly caramelized. Add the Worcestershire sauce and cooked sausage back into the skillet. Mix well to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Divide the rested dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a thin, round tortilla-like shape. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook each tortilla on both sides for about a minute or until lightly browned. Keep the cooked tortillas warm by wrapping them in a clean cloth.

4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

5. Take each cooked tortilla and place a portion of the sausage filling along the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in the greased baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

6. In the same skillet used for cooking the sausage, melt the drippings over medium heat. Add the flour to the melted drippings and whisk until smooth and lightly browned. Gradually pour in the soup stock, strained tomatoes, vinegar, and Spanish pepper sauce. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Remove from heat.

7. Pour the sauce over the rolled enchiladas, ensuring they are evenly coated. Reserve a small amount of sauce for serving if desired. Place the baking dish with the enchiladas in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.

8. Once cooked, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced jalapenos, if desired. Serve the remaining sauce on the side.

Fun Facts:

- Enchiladas have a rich history dating back to the Mayan civilization in Mexico. The word "enchilada" itself comes from the Spanish word "enchilar," which means "to season with chili."
- The tradition of rolling tortillas and filling them with various ingredients can be traced back to the Mayans. It is believed that enchiladas were often eaten as a portable and convenient meal while working in the fields.
- Enchiladas are known for their versatility, as they can be filled with a wide array of ingredients. Some common fillings include cheese, chicken, beef, beans, and seafood.
- Enchilada sauces can vary greatly depending on the region and personal preferences. They can range from mild to spicy, and often include ingredients such as tomatoes, chili peppers, onions, garlic, and spices.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

1. Tacos: Tacos are another popular Mexican dish that is reminiscent of enchiladas. They consist of tortillas filled with various ingredients such as seasoned meat, vegetables, and salsa. Tacos are typically folded and eaten by hand, making them a perfect choice for a quick and delicious meal.

2. Burritos: Burritos are larger tortillas filled with a combination of ingredients, including meat, rice, beans, cheese, and salsa. They are often wrapped tightly and can be enjoyed as a handheld meal or baked to melt the cheese and heat the ingredients.

3. Quesadillas: Quesadillas are made by folding a tortilla in half and filling it with cheese and other desired ingredients before grilling or pan-frying until crispy and melted. They can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish.

4. Tamales: Tamales are made by wrapping a masa dough filled with various ingredients in a corn husk and steaming them until cooked. They can be filled with meats, cheese, beans, vegetables, or sweet fillings like fruits or chocolate.

Remember, enchiladas are a versatile dish, and you can experiment with fillings and sauces to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your homemade enchiladas and have fun exploring the wide array of Mexican cuisine!