Chilaquiles Verdes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chilaquiles Verdes is a comforting and hearty dish that offers bold flavors in every bite. The tangy green sauce made from tomatillos, chilies, and cilantro infuses the crispy tortilla chips with delicious, zesty heat. Topped with eggs and fresh garnishes like cilantro, cheese, and sour cream, this dish is both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re making it for a weekend brunch or a quick dinner, Chilaquiles Verdes is the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and satisfying ingredients.

Ingredients

For the sauce:

• 1 lb tomatillos, husked and rinsed

• 2-3 jalapeños (adjust based on spice preference)

• 1 small onion, quartered

• 2 garlic cloves

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves

• Salt to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

For the chilaquiles:

• 8-10 corn tortillas, cut into triangles or strips

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

• 4 large eggs (for topping)

• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese (cheddar, Oaxaca, or Monterey Jack)

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional, for garnish)

• Sliced avocado (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the sauce:

1. Roast the tomatillos: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place the tomatillos, jalapeños, onion, and garlic in the pan. Dry roast them, turning occasionally, until the tomatillos are soft and slightly charred (about 7-10 minutes). The jalapeños should be slightly blistered as well. Remove from heat and let cool.

2. Blend the sauce: Once the vegetables are cool enough to handle, transfer them to a blender. Add the cilantro and a pinch of salt, and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt if necessary.

For the chilaquiles:

3. Fry the tortilla chips: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the tortilla strips or triangles and fry them for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are crispy and golden. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

4. Combine the chips and sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the green sauce and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Add the fried tortilla chips to the pan, stirring gently to coat them in the sauce. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes until the chips soften slightly, but remain crispy around the edges.

5. Cook the eggs: While the chips are cooking in the sauce, cook your eggs. You can either fry or scramble them, depending on your preference. If you prefer poached eggs, those are also a great topping for chilaquiles!

6. Assemble the dish: Divide the chilaquiles into serving plates. Top with cooked eggs, crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Optionally, garnish with sliced avocado, red onion, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor.

7. Serve: Serve your Chilaquiles Verdes immediately while the chips are still crispy and the eggs are warm. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Chilaquiles: Add shredded cooked chicken on top for a heartier meal.

• Vegan Chilaquiles: Skip the cheese and eggs, and use avocado and a dollop of cashew cream or vegan sour cream as toppings.

• Spicy Chilaquiles: Add more jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

• Chilaquiles with Beans: Serve with a side of black beans or refried beans for added protein and fiber.

• Cheese Options: Try substituting queso fresco with Cotija, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy cheese like pepper jack.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chilaquiles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the chips will soften over time, so it’s best to eat them fresh.

• Reheating: Reheat the chilaquiles in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If they are too dry, add a little extra sauce to bring them back to life.

FAQs

1. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the green sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 1 month.

2. Can I make Chilaquiles Verdes without frying the chips?

Yes, you can skip the frying step and use store-bought tortilla chips or baked chips for a lighter version. Just make sure to toss them in the sauce long enough to soften them slightly.

3. Can I use store-bought green sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re in a rush or prefer convenience, you can use store-bought green enchilada sauce or salsa verde. However, homemade sauce will add extra depth and flavor.

4. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Corn tortillas are traditional for chilaquiles, but if you prefer flour tortillas, you can use them. Just be sure to cut them into strips and fry them until crispy, or use store-bought flour tortilla chips.

5. How can I make the chilaquiles spicier?

To increase the heat, you can add extra jalapeños, some serrano peppers, or a dash of hot sauce to the green sauce.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the green sauce and fry the tortilla strips ahead of time, but the chilaquiles are best assembled and served fresh. If you store them, the chips will soften in the sauce over time.

7. Can I use other toppings?

Yes! You can add a variety of toppings, such as sliced radishes, fresh salsa, pickled onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for added brightness.

8. How do I make poached eggs for the chilaquiles?

To poach eggs, bring a pot of water to a simmer and add a tablespoon of vinegar. Crack an egg into a small bowl and gently slide it into the water. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes for a runny yolk, then remove with a slotted spoon.

9. Can I make this dish without eggs?

Yes, you can make this dish egg-free by leaving off the eggs and serving with other protein options like beans, tofu, or avocado.

10. How do I keep the chips crispy in Chilaquiles?

For extra crispy chips, try baking them in the oven before adding the sauce. This will keep them a little more crunchy before mixing with the sauce.

Conclusion

Chilaquiles Verdes is a classic Mexican dish that brings together crispy tortilla chips, a flavorful green sauce, and the richness of poached eggs, cheese, and sour cream. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make dish that can be customized to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dinner, Chilaquiles Verdes is a flavorful and satisfying option. This dish is guaranteed to be a hit, offering a delicious combination of crispy, savory, and spicy flavors in every bite!