Chiles en Nogada is a beloved Mexican dish that embodies the vibrant flavors and colors of the country's rich culinary heritage. This dish combines the subtle heat of poblano chiles with a tantalizing mix of meat, fruits, and spices, all topped with a creamy walnut sauce and glistening pomegranate seeds. If you're looking to bring a taste of Mexico into your kitchen, follow this step-by-step guide to create the perfect Chiles en Nogada.
Ingredients:
6 poblano chiles
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup almonds, chopped
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup walnuts
1 cup milk
1/2 cup queso fresco
1 cup pomegranate seeds
Step 1: Prep the Chiles
Start by roasting the poblano chiles under a broiler or over an open flame until the skin blackens.
Place the roasted chiles in a plastic bag and let them sweat for 10 minutes.
Peel off the charred skin, make a slit down the side of each chile, and carefully remove the seeds.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
Add the diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, raisins, almonds, pine nuts, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes until the mixture is well combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Chiles
Carefully fill each poblano chile with the meat mixture until they are all evenly stuffed.
Ensure the chiles are closed securely to keep the filling intact.
Step 4: Make the Walnut Sauce
Blend the walnuts, milk, and queso fresco in a blender until smooth to create a creamy sauce.
Season with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Place the stuffed chiles on a serving dish.
Pour the walnut sauce generously over the chiles, ensuring they are well-covered.
Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds on top of the sauce for a burst of freshness and color.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chiles en Nogada:
Handling Chiles : Wear gloves when handling poblano chiles to avoid irritation from the capsaicin.
Sauce Consistency : Adjust the milk quantity in the walnut sauce to achieve your desired consistency.
Make-Ahead : These chiles can be prepared up to a day in advance and baked just before serving.
Celebrate the vibrant flavors of Mexico with Chiles en Nogada, a dish that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Mexican cuisine. The combination of savory and sweet, spicy and creamy will surely transport your taste buds to Mexico's colorful streets and bustling markets.
So don your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to savor the exquisite taste of Chiles en Nogada in the comfort of your home. Buena cocina!
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