Chilaquiles are a traditional Mexican dish that transforms humble ingredients into a comforting and vibrant meal. Originating from Mexico, chilaquiles are typically enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or brunch, though they can be a satisfying main course at any time of the day. This dish combines crisp tortilla chips with a rich, flavorful sauce and is often topped with a variety of garnishes such as cheese, avocado, and eggs.
This recipe for chilaquiles aims to capture the perfect balance between crispy chips and savory sauce, delivering a dish that is both satisfying and bursting with authentic flavors. Whether you’re looking to impress at a brunch gathering or simply want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal, this chilaquiles recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Perfectly Crispy and Flavorful Chilaquiles
For the Sauce:
- 4 large tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Chilaquiles:
- 6 cups tortilla chips (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as queso fresco, Monterey Jack, or cheddar)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 2-3 eggs, fried or scrambled (optional, for topping)
How to Make Perfectly Crispy and Flavorful Chilaquiles
1. Prepare the Sauce
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.
- Blend the Sauce: Transfer the tomato mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the blended sauce to the skillet.
- Simmer: Add the chicken or vegetable broth, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
2. Prepare the Tortilla Chips
- Fry (Optional): If using homemade tortilla chips, cut tortillas into triangles and fry them in vegetable oil until crisp and golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Alternatively, use store-bought tortilla chips for convenience.
- Warm the Chips: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tortilla chips on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for 5-7 minutes.
3. Combine Chips and Sauce
- Add Chips to Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, gently fold in the tortilla chips, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the chips to absorb some of the sauce but remaining slightly crispy.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chilaquiles. Allow it to melt slightly.
- Add Toppings: Garnish with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, thinly sliced red onions, and a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema. Top with fried or scrambled eggs if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Tortilla Chips
Tortilla chips are the foundation of chilaquiles. They are typically made from corn tortillas that are cut into triangles and fried or baked until crispy. The chips should be sturdy enough to hold up to the sauce without becoming too soggy.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes form the base of the chilaquiles sauce, providing a rich and tangy flavor. When cooked down and blended, they create a smooth, flavorful sauce that clings to the tortilla chips.
Jalapeño Pepper
Jalapeños add a spicy kick to the sauce. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. Removing the seeds can help reduce the spiciness if desired.
Cheese
Shredded cheese adds a creamy texture and savory flavor to the dish. Queso fresco is traditional, but Monterey Jack or cheddar can also be used.
Avocado
Avocado adds a creamy and fresh element to the chilaquiles. Its richness balances the tangy and spicy flavors of the sauce.
Cilantro
Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbaceous flavor and color, complementing the other ingredients and enhancing the overall freshness of the dish.
Enjoy your chilaquiles as a flavorful and satisfying breakfast or brunch, perfect for any day of the week!
