Salvadoran Enchiladas Recipe

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The Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe is a quick weeknight meal that fills a busy time in your schedule. It starts with corn tortillas, and various toppings and fillings make a filling plate. For all those searching for a balanced meal, the recipe includes colorful vegetables like onions and tomatoes, and protein like shredded chicken, beef and beans. Blending these elements together creates a nutritious recipe for Salvadoran Enchiladas.

Portion sizes are important when making the Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe for families or a gathering. Each enchilada may be customized to fit specific preferences by serving larger or smaller portions. It’s helpful to use a visual guideline; As an example, measuring out the quantity of filling with the size of your palm can stay away from overfilling, and that could make the dish hard to handle. This attention to portion control can also control calorie intake so everyone gets a filling meal with fewer leftovers.

On those crazy weekdays the Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe makes a quick dinner. Certain ready made ingredients such as prepared chicken or sauteed veggies, can make the enchiladas in no time. Fill the tortillas with cheese and sauce, and bake about 20 minutes. This speed makes it a great choice for families with rushed schedules who want to prepare a filling, balanced meal without to much time in the kitchen.

All of these factors – balanced meal creation, portion sizes and quick preparation time – make the Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe a delicious dinner for any occasion. It meets various dietary needs and is adaptable to modern life.

Table of Contents

Ingredients For the Salvadoran Enchiladas Recipe

Ground Beef
Chopped Onion
Minced Cloves of Garlic
Vegetable Oil
Ground Cumin
Dried Oregano
Cayenne Pepper
Salt
Corn Tortillas
Enchilada Sauce
Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
Chopped Dilantro
Sour Cream
Sliced Jalapeños

Cooking Instructions For the Salvadoran Enchiladas Recipe

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.

Add the ground cumin, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet until soft and pliable.
Pour 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Take each tortilla and dip it into the remaining enchilada sauce, coating both sides. Fill each tortilla with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled-up tortilla seam-side down into the baking dish.
Repeat with the remaining tortillas until all the filling is used up.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled-up tortillas, making sure to cover them completely.

Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the enchiladas.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream and sliced jalapeños on the side.

10 Most Popular Spices For Salvadoran Cooking

1. Annatto

Annatto (achiote,) is a spice that gives earthy flavour and red-orange colour to food. It is used in sauces, stews, rice dishes and to marinate meats or color sauces.

2. Cumin

Among the most popular spices in Salvadoran cuisine is Cumin. It gives soups, beans and meats a warm, slightly nutty flavour. Cumin is often used with other spices in seasoning blends.

3. Garlic

Garlic is a spice in Salvadoran cooking because of its pungent flavour. It’s used in several dishes, powdered or fresh, from marinades and sauces to soups and stews.

4. Oregano

Oregano is a peppery and bitter herb utilized in Salvadoran dishes. It can be used in salsas, sauces & stews, and to season meats. Salvadoran oregano is milder than Mediterranean varieties.

5. Black pepper

Black pepper is an everyday spice that gives a hot note to many Salvadoran foods. It can be used in marinades, sauces and together with salt as standard seasoning in savoury foods.

6. Bay leaves

Bay leaves give many Salvadoran dishes, soups and stews a subtle, aromatic flavor. They are often added during cooking and removed when serving, giving a mild, herbal flavor.

7. Cinnamon Cinnamon is used in sweet and savoury Salvadoran dishes. In powder or whole sticks, cinnamon warms drinks like atoles and desserts like torrejas and meats and sauces.

8. Paprika

Paprika is another key spice in Salvadoran cooking, mild in flavour and red in colour. It’s used in seasoning blends for meats, sauces and stews. Both sweet and smoked varieties are acceptable depending on the dish.

9. Ground Cloves

Cloves add a slightly sweet and spicy flavour to many Salvadoran recipes involving pork or beef. Ground cloves are sometimes sparingly used to warm stews, marinades and sauces.

10. Chili powder

Chili powder is often used to give Salvadoran dishes a light or moderate heat. Incorporated to soups, sauces or stews, it gives a slight spice without overwhelming the dish.

These ten spices are the bases of many traditional Salvadoran dishes. Each brings something special to the table, and they combine to produce the complex, hearty flavours characteristic of Salvadoran cuisine.

FAQ For the Salvadoran Enchiladas Recipe

Q: What are the essential components of a Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe?

A: A Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe typically consists of several essential components that contribute to its unique flavor and texture. The foundation is usually corn tortillas, which are lightly fried to achieve a crispy texture. These tortillas are then topped with a mixture of ground meat, often seasoned with spices like cumin and paprika, alongside diced vegetables such as onions, peppers, and tomatoes. A crucial aspect of this dish is the vibrant tomato sauce, which is drizzled over the top, adding a rich flavor and moisture. Finally, the enchiladas are often garnished with fresh toppings such as avocado slices, crumbled cheese, and cilantro, making them a delicious and colourful meal.

Q: How do you make a traditional Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe from scratch?

A: To make a traditional Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe from scratch, start by preparing the meat filling. Sauté onions and garlic in a pan, then add ground beef or chicken, seasoning with cumin, salt, and pepper until the meat is fully cooked. While the meat is cooking, heat the corn tortillas in a separate pan until they are warm and pliable. Next, assemble the enchiladas by placing a spoonful of the meat mixture on each tortilla, rolling them up, and placing them seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour the tomato sauce over the top, ensuring all enchiladas are covered, then bake them in the oven until heated through. Serve garnished with fresh vegetables, avocado, and cheese for an authentic touch.

Q: What are some popular variations of a Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe?

A: A Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe can be adapted in many ways, resulting in various delicious variations. One popular version includes adding beans to the meat mixture, providing a heartier filling packed with protein and fiber. You can also experiment with different types of meat, such as pork or turkey, to suit your taste preferences. For a vegetarian option, consider using a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils as the filling instead of meat. Additionally, some variations incorporate cheese within the enchiladas themselves or as a topping, adding a creamy texture that complements the crispy tortillas and zesty sauce.

Q: What are the best sides to serve with a Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe?

A: When serving a Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe, it’s great to pair the dish with sides that complement its flavors and enhance the meal experience. A fresh salad made with cabbage, tomatoes, and radishes can provide a crisp contrast to the warm, savory enchiladas. Additionally, serving a side of rice, either plain or seasoned, can help soak up any extra sauce. For a traditional touch, consider offering a small bowl of salsa or a spicy condiment to elevate the overall flavor. Lastly, fried plantains can also serve as a delicious accompaniment, adding a touch of sweetness that balances the dish’s savory elements.

Q: How can you customize a Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe for dietary restrictions?

A: Customizing a Salvadoran Enchiladas recipe for dietary restrictions can be easily achieved with a few thoughtful substitutions. For those following a gluten-free diet, opt for gluten-free tortillas made from corn or other grains instead of traditional flour tortillas. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken in place of beef, or substitute the meat with a mix of beans and quinoa for a plant-based alternative. Additionally, for individuals with dairy sensitivities, use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese entirely while still enjoying the fresh toppings. These adaptations allow everyone to savor the delicious flavors of Salvadoran enchiladas while catering to their specific dietary needs.