Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole

Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole Recipe - Vegetarian Mexican Dish

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the traditional flavors of chile rellenos with the added protein of tofu. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

Chile rellenos are a traditional Mexican dish that consists of roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, dipped in egg batter, and fried. This casserole takes inspiration from the classic dish and adds a twist by incorporating tofu for added protein and a healthier twist.

Ingredients

7 oz (198 g) whole green chiles (canned)
14.5 oz (411 g) firm tofu
0.75 lb (340 g) grated jack cheese
0.75 lb (340 g) grated sharp cheddar
7 oz (198 g) diced green chiles (canned)
6 eggs
12 oz (340 g) evaporated milk or other nut/grain milk
1 cup salsa

How to prepare

Split the whole chiles lengthwise.
Remove the seeds and lay them flat in the bottom of a 13x9 baking dish.
Place the tofu on a paper towel and gently squeeze out any excess moisture.
Crumble and blend half of the tofu with jack cheese.
Blend the remaining half of the tofu with sharp cheese.
Pot the chiles with a layer of the jack cheese mixture, followed by a layer of the cheddar cheese mixture.
Add a layer of diced green chiles.
Repeat the layers until all the cheese and chiles are used.
Beat the eggs with milk.
Pour the egg mixture over the casserole.
Spread salsa on top of the casserole.
Bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 45 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked ground beef or turkey for a meatier version of the casserole.
Substitute the tofu with cooked quinoa or lentils for a different protein source.
Mix in some corn or black beans for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to remove the seeds from the whole green chiles to reduce the heat level of the dish.

- Squeezing out excess moisture from the tofu will help prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.

- Layering the cheese and tofu mixture with the chiles ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the casserole ensures that the flavors meld together and the cheese melts perfectly.

- Layering the ingredients helps create a well-balanced dish with each bite.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned or fresh roasted poblano peppers instead of whole green chiles.

- Swap out the jack and cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese blend.

- Use almond or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this casserole with a refreshing cucumber salad, Mexican street corn, or a side of guacamole for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers 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

350

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 15g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 25g

- Saturated Fat: 14g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 24g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 40%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese and milk)

- Contains soy (tofu)

Summary

This Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole is a balanced dish that provides a good amount of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a meal.

Summary

Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the classic flavors of chile rellenos with the added protein of tofu. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients and flavors. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish for a wholesome meal that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was known in our circle of friends for her delicious Mexican-inspired dishes, and I always looked forward to trying something new whenever I visited her.

On this particular day, Maria had a surprise for me. She had been experimenting with a new vegetarian recipe for Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole, and she wanted me to be her taste tester. As she pulled out the ingredients and began to prepare the dish, I was intrigued by the combination of flavors and textures that she was incorporating. The soft tofu, the spicy chiles, the cheesy topping – it all looked so enticing.

As the casserole baked in the oven, Maria and I chatted about our shared love of cooking and exchanging recipes. She shared with me how she had learned to make this dish from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through the generations. I was touched by the tradition and history behind the dish, and I couldn't wait to try it for myself.

When the casserole was finally ready, Maria plated up two generous servings and we sat down at her kitchen table to dig in. The first bite was a revelation – the creamy tofu melted in my mouth, while the spicy chiles added a kick of heat that was tempered by the gooey cheese on top. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

After that day, I made it a mission to master the art of Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole. I asked Maria for her recipe, and she graciously shared it with me, along with some tips and tricks for getting it just right. I practiced making the casserole over and over again, tweaking the ingredients and cooking times until I had perfected my own version of the dish.

Over the years, I have shared my Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole with friends and family, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have passed it down to my own children, who have now made it a staple in their own kitchens. It has become a beloved family recipe that we all cherish, and I am grateful to Maria for introducing me to it all those years ago.

As I sit here in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of Tofu Chile Relleno Casserole for dinner tonight, I can't help but smile at the memories that this dish brings back. It reminds me of the warmth and joy of Maria's kitchen, of the laughter and friendship that we shared over many meals. And it reminds me of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting bonds and cherished memories.

So as I pop the casserole into the oven and wait for it to bubble and brown, I say a silent thank you to Maria and her grandmother, for passing down this wonderful recipe to me. I may not have grown up with it like they did, but it has become a part of my culinary heritage, a dish that I will continue to make and share for years to come. And for that, I am truly grateful.