Indulge in Flavorful Chilaquiles with Homemade Tomato Sauce
If you’re craving a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, look no further than our recipe for Chilaquiles with Homemade Tomato Sauce. This classic dish features crispy corn tortillas smothered in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, topped with creamy avocado, tangy queso fresco, and a hint of heat from jalapenos. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Chilaquiles are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Join us as we explore the steps to creating this mouthwatering dish from scratch.
Ingredients:
- Produce:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 guajillo chiles, dried
- 2 jalapenos, sliced
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 white onion, diced
- Refrigerated:
- 4 large eggs
- Baking & Spices:
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Oils & Vinegars:
- 3 cups oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- Bread & Baked Goods:
- 16 (6-inch) corn tortillas
- Dairy:
- 1/2 cup queso fresco
- Other:
- 1/4 cup crema (Mexican sour cream)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Homemade Tomato Sauce:
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced white onion, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Add the dried guajillo chiles (stemmed and seeded), ripe tomatoes (chopped), and fire-roasted tomatoes to the saucepan. Season with ground cumin and kosher salt.
- Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once cooked, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Transfer the sauce to a blender and blend until smooth. Set aside.
2. Fry the Corn Tortillas:
- In a separate skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until hot. Working in batches, fry the corn tortillas until golden and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
3. Assemble the Chilaquiles:
- In a large skillet, pour the homemade tomato sauce and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the fried corn tortillas to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce.
- Create wells in the sauce and crack the eggs into them. Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are set to your desired level of doneness, about 5-7 minutes for a slightly runny yolk.
- Once the eggs are cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the chilaquiles with sliced jalapenos, avocado slices, crumbled queso fresco, and a drizzle of crema.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Divide the chilaquiles among serving plates and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with additional chopped cilantro or sliced radishes for extra freshness and flavor.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken, beef, or pork to the chilaquiles for added protein and heartiness.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the eggs and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a satisfying vegetarian version of this dish.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapenos and guajillo chiles according to your preferred level of heat. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the chiles before adding them to the sauce.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Low-Carb Tortillas: Use low-carb or keto-friendly tortillas made from almond flour or coconut flour to reduce the carbohydrate content of the dish.
- Cauliflower Rice: Substitute fried cauliflower rice for the corn tortillas to create a keto-friendly version of chilaquiles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use store-bought salsa instead of making homemade tomato sauce? A: While store-bought salsa can be used as a shortcut, making homemade tomato sauce allows you to control the flavor and spice level of the dish.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the homemade tomato sauce and fry the corn tortillas in advance. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and assemble the chilaquiles, adding the eggs and garnishes just before serving.
Q: Are chilaquiles typically served for breakfast or dinner? A: Chilaquiles are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. They’re often served with a variety of toppings and accompaniments, making them suitable for any meal of the day.
In conclusion, Chilaquiles with Homemade Tomato Sauce are a flavorful and satisfying dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. With crispy fried tortillas, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy toppings, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the streets of Mexico. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Chilaquiles are a delicious and versatile option that’s perfect for any occasion. So why not spice up your mealtime routine and treat yourself to a taste of Mexico with this mouthwatering recipe?
