Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos

Low-Calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 16 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos is a delicious and healthy twist on the traditional Mexican dish. This recipe features whole chilies stuffed with cooked turkey breast and cheese, then baked to perfection. It's a flavorful and satisfying meal that won't weigh you down.

History

Chile Rellenos, which translates to "stuffed chilies" in Spanish, is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine. Traditionally, poblano peppers are used and filled with cheese, then battered and fried. This low-calorie version swaps out the frying for baking, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

4 cans of whole green chilies, 4 oz (113 g) each
4 oz (113 g) of monterey jack cheese, reduced-fat, with or without jalapeno peppers, cut into 0.5 inch strips
0.75 lb (340 g) of cooked turkey breast
0.5 cup of all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp of baking powder
0.25 tsp of salt
0.5 cup of skim milk
3 large eggs
0.67 cup of non-fat shredded cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Drain the canned chilies, remove the seeds, and slit them on one side, opening them flat.
Cut the cooked turkey into 0.5 inch strips.
Arrange the chilies on a baking dish lightly coated with vegetable cooking spray.
Fill each chili with jack cheese and turkey.
Fold over the edges of the chilies and place them seam-side down.
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs; slowly add them to the flour mixture, beating until smooth.
Pour the mixture over the prepared chilies.
Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 15 minutes.
Remove from the oven and turn off the heat.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top and return to the oven for 1 minute to melt the cheese.
Serve immediately.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the turkey with black beans or tofu.
Add diced tomatoes, onions, or corn to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the canned chilies well and remove the seeds to reduce the heat level.

- Cutting the turkey breast into strips ensures that each bite has a good balance of flavors.

- Folding over the edges of the chilies helps to keep the filling inside during baking.

- Whisking the milk and eggs together before adding them to the flour mixture helps to create a smooth batter.

Serving Suggestions

Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos can be served with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chilies instead of frying them reduces the amount of oil and calories in the dish while still achieving a crispy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have canned whole chilies, you can use fresh poblano peppers instead. Just be sure to roast and peel them before stuffing.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling and batter ahead of time and assemble the chilies just before baking. This dish is best served fresh out of the oven.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light and refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A cold beer or a glass of iced tea also complements the flavors nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and milk) and eggs.

Summary

Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a healthy diet.

Summary

Low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a healthy and balanced meal. With a good mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, as well as essential vitamins and minerals, this recipe is a nutritious choice for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic Mexican favorite!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a sunny summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria, who was known for her delicious and healthy cooking. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of spices and roasting peppers.

"What are you making, Maria?" I asked eagerly, peering over her shoulder at the recipe she was following.

"I'm making low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos," she replied with a smile. "It's a family favorite, and I think you'll love it."

I watched as Maria deftly prepared the ingredients, mixing ground turkey with a variety of spices and herbs. She then stuffed the mixture into roasted poblano peppers, before baking them in the oven until they were golden and bubbly. The end result was a dish that was both comforting and healthy, a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

As I sat down to enjoy my first bite of the Turkey Chile Rellenos, I knew that I had to learn how to make this recipe myself. Maria graciously shared her recipe with me, along with some tips and tricks that she had picked up over the years. I left her house that day feeling inspired and eager to try my hand at cooking this delicious dish.

Over the next few weeks, I experimented with the recipe, making adjustments here and there until I found the perfect balance of flavors. I added extra spices for a little kick, and swapped out some of the ingredients for healthier alternatives. Each time I made the Turkey Chile Rellenos, I couldn't help but think of Maria and the wonderful memories we had shared in her kitchen.

As I continued to perfect the recipe, I also learned more about the history behind it. I discovered that Chile Rellenos originated in Mexico, where they are traditionally made with cheese and fried in oil. However, I was determined to create a healthier version of this classic dish, one that would be both delicious and nutritious.

I soon found myself sharing my recipe with friends and family, who were all delighted by the taste and simplicity of the dish. I took great pride in knowing that I had created something special, something that brought people together and nourished both body and soul.

Years passed, and I continued to make my low-calorie Turkey Chile Rellenos for special occasions and gatherings. It became a staple in my repertoire, a dish that never failed to impress and delight. I was always happy to share the recipe with anyone who asked, knowing that it would bring joy and satisfaction to their lives as well.

Now, as I sit down to write this story, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for all the people who have inspired me along the way. From Maria and her delicious cooking, to the rich history of Chile Rellenos, I have learned so much about the power of food to connect us and bring us joy.

I hope that you will enjoy making this recipe as much as I have, and that it will become a cherished tradition in your own kitchen. Remember to savor each bite, and to share it with those you love. For in the end, the true magic of cooking lies not just in the flavors and aromas, but in the memories and connections that we create along the way.