How To Make Beef Enchiladas From Scratch In Just 30

Enchiladas, a delectable Mexican delicacy, have captivated taste buds worldwide. This blog post embarks on a culinary adventure, guiding you through the art of crafting authentic beef enchiladas from scratch. Prepare to immerse yourself in the flavors and aromas of this beloved dish.

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

For the Enchiladas:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Enchilada Sauce:

• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions: A Culinary Journey

1. Prepare the Enchilada Filling

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
• Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
• Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until thickened.

2. Assemble the Enchiladas

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Fill each tortilla with the beef filling and roll it up.
• Place the enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish.

3. Create the Enchilada Sauce

• In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
• Stir well to combine.

4. Pour the Enchilada Sauce

• Pour the enchilada sauce over the enchiladas.
• Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.

5. Bake the Enchiladas

• Bake the enchiladas for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Garnish the enchiladas with additional cilantro or shredded cheese.
• Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.

Tips for Enchilada Perfection

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh ingredients will elevate the flavors of your enchiladas.
• Don’t overcook the tortillas: Overcooked tortillas will break easily.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese: Cheese is essential for the rich, gooey texture of enchiladas.
• Make your own enchilada sauce: Homemade sauce adds depth and authenticity to the dish.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment: Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Variations on the Classic

• Chicken Enchiladas: Substitute cooked chicken for the ground beef.
• Vegetable Enchiladas: Omit the meat and add a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and corn.
• Cheese Enchiladas: Fill the tortillas with a mixture of shredded cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella.
• Green Enchiladas: Use green enchilada sauce and add chopped spinach or tomatillos.

The Enchilada Saga: A History of Culinary Delight

Enchiladas have a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian Mexico. The word “enchilada” means “chili-filled” in Spanish, reflecting the dish’s spicy origins. Over the centuries, enchiladas have evolved into a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine and a popular dish around the world.

Top Questions Asked

1. What is the difference between red and green enchilada sauce?

Red enchilada sauce is made with red chili peppers, while green enchilada sauce is made with green chili peppers. Red sauce typically has a spicier flavor, while green sauce is milder.

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

Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but corn tortillas are the traditional choice for enchiladas.

3. How can I make my enchiladas vegetarian?

Substitute cooked beans or tofu for the ground beef.

4. Can I freeze enchiladas?

Yes, you can freeze enchiladas before baking them. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

5. What are some good toppings for enchiladas?

Popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce, and diced onions.