Chili Rellenos Casserole

Vegetarian Chili Rellenos Casserole Recipe with Authentic Mexican Ingredients

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Chili Rellenos Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of roasted chilies, cheese, and a savory egg mixture. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

Chili Rellenos Casserole is a variation of the traditional Mexican dish, Chiles Rellenos. The original dish consists of roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, dipped in egg batter, and fried until golden and crispy. The casserole version simplifies the process by layering the ingredients in a baking dish and baking them in the oven.

Ingredients

8 whole anaheim chiles, charred, peeled, and seeded
0.5 lb (227 g) monterey jack cheese
3 eggs
1 jalapeño chile, seeded and minced
0.25 cup flour
0.5 tsp salt
0.75 cup milk
1 cup grated cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Stuff each chili with a cheese stick and place them in the baking dish.
In a bowl, beat together the eggs, jalapeño, flour, salt, and milk. Pour the mixture over the chilies.
Sprinkle cheese on top.
Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Note: To roast the chilies, place them in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) on a cookie sheet. Turn them after 10 minutes and continue roasting until the skins blister and blacken in spots. Alternatively, place them on a broiler pan and broil about 5 to 6 inches from the heat source, turning often, until the skin is charred on all sides. Another method is to hold the chilies over a gas burner, turning until all sides are charred.
Place the roasted chilies in a bag or covered bowl for about 10 minutes.
The skin should peel right off.

Variations

Add cooked ground beef or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
Use different types of chilies for a variety of flavors.
Top the casserole with sliced avocado and cilantro before serving.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling fresh chilies; the oils can cause a burning sensation on your skin.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to char the chilies properly to easily remove the skin.

- Use a variety of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.

- Serve the casserole with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chili Rellenos Casserole with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, and a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for Chili Rellenos Casserole include roasting the chilies, preparing the egg mixture, and baking the casserole until golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a milder flavor.

- Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

- Use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Chili Rellenos Casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and bake when needed.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chili Rellenos Casserole with a refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Chili Rellenos Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chili Rellenos Casserole contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chili Rellenos Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chili Rellenos Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chili Rellenos Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chili Rellenos Casserole is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Chili Rellenos Casserole contains dairy (cheese and milk) and eggs.

Summary

Chili Rellenos Casserole is a balanced dish that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chili Rellenos Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a balance of flavors and textures, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. I was visiting my dear friend Maria, who was known for her delicious Mexican dishes. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the irresistible aroma of roasting poblanos and spicy tomato sauce.

Maria greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, inviting me to sit at the kitchen table while she continued to work on her masterpiece. She explained that she was making Chili Rellenos Casserole, a dish that was a family favorite and always a hit at gatherings.

As I watched Maria carefully char the poblano peppers over an open flame, I couldn't help but be amazed by her skill and precision. She then peeled off the charred skin, revealing the vibrant green flesh underneath. Next, she carefully slit open the peppers and removed the seeds, leaving them ready to be filled with a savory cheese mixture.

While Maria worked, she shared stories of how she learned to make Chili Rellenos Casserole from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. She spoke of the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to prepare each component with care and love.

I was captivated by Maria's passion for cooking and her dedication to preserving her family's culinary traditions. I knew that I had to learn how to make Chili Rellenos Casserole myself, so I asked Maria if she would be willing to teach me.

Maria's eyes lit up with joy as she agreed to show me the ropes. We spent the rest of the afternoon working side by side in her kitchen, as she guided me through each step of the recipe. From preparing the cheese filling to assembling the casserole, Maria patiently explained the techniques and tips that would ensure a perfect end result.

As we popped the casserole into the oven to bake, Maria poured us each a glass of chilled hibiscus tea and we sat down to chat. She shared more about her family's history, the stories behind some of her favorite recipes, and the joy she found in passing on her cooking knowledge to others.

I left Maria's house that day feeling inspired and excited to try making Chili Rellenos Casserole on my own. I couldn't wait to share this delicious dish with my own family and friends, and to carry on the tradition that Maria had so generously shared with me.

Over the years, I have made Chili Rellenos Casserole countless times, each batch better than the last as I honed my skills and added my own personal touch to the recipe. I have shared this dish with loved ones at gatherings and celebrations, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

I am grateful to Maria for opening my eyes to the beauty and richness of Mexican cuisine, and for teaching me the art of making Chili Rellenos Casserole. Her guidance and mentorship have shaped me into the cook I am today, and I will always cherish the memories of our time spent together in the kitchen.

As I sit here now, preparing to make a fresh batch of Chili Rellenos Casserole for a family dinner, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the culinary heritage that has been passed down to me. I know that with each bite of this delicious dish, I am honoring the traditions and memories of those who came before me, and creating new ones to share with future generations.

And so, with a heart full of love and a kitchen full of delicious aromas, I continue to cook and create, inspired by the lessons and legacy of my dear friend Maria.