Chile Relleno

A chile relleno is a popular Mexican dish that consists of a large, mild pepper (usually a poblano or Anaheim pepper) that is stuffed with a variety of ingredients, battered, and then fried. The name "chile relleno" translates to "stuffed pepper" in English.

To make chile rellenos, the first step is to roast the peppers over an open flame or under a broiler until the skin is blistered and charred. This makes it easier to remove the skin from the pepper. Once the peppers have been roasted and skinned, they are carefully slit open and the seeds and veins are removed, leaving a hollow pepper.

Next, the pepper is stuffed with a filling. The most traditional filling is a mixture of shredded cheese, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar, but other popular fillings include ground beef, chicken, or pork, as well as vegetables like corn, beans, or diced onions. Some cooks also like to add spices, such as chili powder or cumin, to the filling for additional flavor.

Once the pepper is stuffed, it is dipped in a batter made from eggs, flour, and sometimes beer or sparkling water. The batter helps the pepper stay together when it is fried and also gives the chile relleno a crispy, golden exterior.

Finally, the battered pepper is fried in hot oil until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. It is then typically served with a tomato-based sauce, such as enchilada sauce or salsa, and garnished with ingredients like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or diced onions.

Chile rellenos can be served as a main dish, alongside rice and beans, or as a side dish. They are a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please any spicy food lover!