Here’s a recipe for Authentic Green Chilaquiles with Cheesy Refried Beans, combining the vibrant flavors of a green salsa with crispy tortillas and a creamy, cheesy refried bean side. This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying dinner!
Authentic Green Chilaquiles with Cheesy Refried Beans
Ingredients:
For the Green Chilaquiles:
- 12-14 corn tortillas (preferably day-old or slightly stale, cut into triangles)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups green salsa (homemade or store-bought, like salsa verde)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup crema Mexicana or sour cream (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese (for garnish)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Salt, to taste
For the Cheesy Refried Beans:
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans (or homemade refried beans)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Make the Green Chilaquiles:
- Fry the Tortillas:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cut the corn tortillas into triangles (about 6 wedges per tortilla).
- Once the oil is hot, add the tortilla triangles in batches, frying until crispy and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Remove the fried tortilla chips and drain them on paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt immediately while they’re still hot.
- Prepare the Green Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, blend the green salsa with the chicken broth until smooth. You can also use store-bought salsa verde if you prefer, but fresh homemade salsa verde adds the best flavor.
- Combine the Chips with Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the green salsa mixture. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Add the fried tortilla chips to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them with the green sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chips to soak in the sauce but still remain crispy. Be careful not to overcook them into a mush.
- Garnish the Chilaquiles:
- Once the chips have absorbed the sauce, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Serve the chilaquiles on a plate or platter, topped with crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese, thinly sliced red onions, a dollop of crema Mexicana or sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for added freshness.
2. Make the Cheesy Refried Beans:
- Heat the Beans:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the refried beans over medium heat. Stir in the butter, garlic powder, and milk or cream until the beans are smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the Cheese:
- Once the beans are heated and smooth, stir in the shredded cheese and continue stirring until melted and creamy.
- Serve the Beans:
- Once the cheese has fully melted and the beans are smooth and creamy, remove them from the heat. You can serve these cheesy beans on the side or spread them on the plate next to your chilaquiles.
Serving:
- Plate the Green Chilaquiles with the Cheesy Refried Beans on the side.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, extra lime wedges, and a little more crumbled cheese if desired.
Tips:
- For Homemade Salsa Verde: If you want to make your own salsa verde, blend roasted tomatillos, garlic, cilantro, onions, and a few green chilies (like jalapeños or serranos) to make a fresh salsa verde.
- Tortilla Chips: If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip frying the tortillas and use store-bought tortilla chips or bake the tortilla wedges for a healthier option.
- Extra Toppings: Add a fried egg on top for a richer meal, or serve with avocado slices for a creamy addition.
This Authentic Green Chilaquiles with Cheesy Refried Beans is full of flavor, texture, and comfort. The crispy tortilla chips soaked in tangy green salsa paired with creamy, cheesy refried beans makes for a satisfying meal that can easily become a favorite!