Enchiladas Divorciadas

The combination of nutty quinoa, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs creates a satisfying and flavorful filling for sweet bell peppers.

What’s more, this recipe is easy to customize to your taste and dietary preferences. You can use any color of bell peppers you like, or mix and match for a stunning presentation. You can also add or substitute veggies and herbs, depending on what you have on hand. And if you want to make it vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home, a potluck party, or any occasion where you want to impress with a healthy and tasty meal.

Full Recipe:

Red Chile Sauce

• 2 cups Red Chile Sauce

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

• 1 pound tomatillos, husked, and rinsed

• 1 white onion, peeled, and quartered

• 4 garlic cloves

• 2 serranos, stems removed

• 1 cup cilantro leaves

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Enchiladas

• ½ cup canola oil, for frying

• 8 corn tortillas, preferably white

• 1 cup Queso Oaxaca, shredded

• 3 cups poached shredded chicken

• ½ cup queso fresco, crumbled

• 4 green onions, sliced, optional

• Sour cream, optional

Directions:

1. Poach and shred the chicken by simmering water, chicken, salt, garlic, and onion for about 25 minutes. Shred the chicken once cool.

2. For the Red Chile Sauce: Rinse and simmer the chiles for about 20 minutes. Blend with water, garlic, flour, and salt, then strain.

3. For the Roasted Tomatillo Salsa: Roast tomatillos, onion, garlic, and serranos. Blend with cilantro, chicken broth, flour, and salt.

4. Fry tortillas in hot canola oil until soft, then drain on paper towels.

5. Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken and cheese, then roll them up.

6. Assemble by placing the rolled tortillas on a plate, drizzle with the red sauce on one half and green sauce on the other. Top with queso fresco and green onions (optional).

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 556 kcal | Servings: 6 to 8 servings

Recipe Overview

Enchiladas Divorciadas, also known as “Christmas Enchiladas,” are a festive and flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas. This vibrant dish features two distinct sauces—one red and one green—that come together to create an explosion of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday gathering or a cozy dinner, these enchiladas deliver a beautiful contrast in both color and taste. The term “divorciadas,” meaning “divorced” in Spanish, refers to the separation of the sauces, each draping its side of the enchiladas. With tender tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, and topped with rich salsas, Enchiladas Divorciadas are a true showstopper that will leave everyone asking for more.

History and Origin

Enchiladas Divorciadas have their roots in traditional Mexican cuisine but stand out for their unique presentation and flavor profile. While enchiladas are a well-loved staple across Mexico, these “divorced” enchiladas are particularly popular in New Mexico, where they are often associated with holiday celebrations and festive meals. The concept of serving the enchiladas with two different salsas—one made from red chiles and the other from roasted tomatillos—is said to symbolize the harmony between seemingly opposite elements, creating a balance of flavors that is visually appealing as well as delicious.

The practice of combining red and green sauces can be traced back to Mexican culinary traditions, where red chiles and green tomatillos are commonly used to create vibrant salsas. This dual-sauce presentation is not only a feast for the eyes but also showcases the rich diversity of Mexico’s regional flavors. Enchiladas Divorciadas have become a beloved dish during the Christmas season, hence the alternate name “Christmas Enchiladas,” and are often prepared with extra care, making them perfect for special occasions.

Variations and Adaptations

While the base concept of Enchiladas Divorciadas remains the same, the dish has seen numerous regional adaptations over the years. In some areas, the fillings can vary, with options ranging from shredded beef, pork, or cheese to seafood like shrimp. In fact, some versions of this dish even feature a vegetarian filling, using sautéed vegetables or beans as the main ingredient.

The choice of tortillas can also differ depending on the region. While the traditional recipe calls for soft corn tortillas, some cooks may use flour tortillas for a lighter texture. Additionally, the type of cheese used in the filling can vary greatly, with many opting for Queso Oaxaca due to its creamy and melt-in-your-mouth texture, but other cheeses such as Queso Fresco, Cotija, or Monterrey Jack are also popular alternatives. For those who prefer extra heat, adding jalapeños or serrano peppers to the green salsa is a common adaptation, while a milder version can replace the chiles with bell peppers or omit them altogether.

While the red and green sauces are the hallmark of this dish, some variations feature a third sauce, such as a creamy avocado or poblano sauce, adding a unique twist to the traditional flavors. No matter how you adapt the recipe, the essence of Enchiladas Divorciadas remains the same: a balance of bold flavors, comforting textures, and a visual feast that showcases the best of Mexican cuisine.

Nutritional Information

Enchiladas Divorciadas are a hearty, flavorful dish that combines a variety of ingredients, each contributing to its nutritional profile. The chicken used in the filling provides a good source of lean protein, while the cheeses offer a rich dose of calcium and fat, adding to the overall creaminess of the dish. Additionally, the red chile sauce and roasted tomatillo salsa are made from fresh, wholesome ingredients, providing essential vitamins and antioxidants.

On average, a serving of Enchiladas Divorciadas contains approximately:

• Calories: 556 kcal

• Protein: 28g

• Carbohydrates: 34g

• Fat: 35g

• Fiber: 6g

• Sugar: 11g

The dish is also a great source of vitamins, particularly vitamin A (from the red chile sauce) and vitamin C (from the tomatillos), both of which are essential for immune function. While the dish is rich in fat, much of it comes from healthy sources like olive oil and avocado, providing heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

For those watching their sodium intake, it’s important to note that the red chile sauce and tomatillo salsa can be quite salty. Consider reducing the amount of added salt in the recipe or using a lower-sodium broth to make the dish more heart-healthy.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Enchiladas Divorciadas are a dish that is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday meal or preparing a family dinner, these enchiladas pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and drinks. The combination of tangy red and green sauces, creamy cheese, and savory chicken makes this dish rich and indulgent, so pairing it with something light and refreshing can create a well-rounded meal.

Side dishes:

• Mexican Rice: A classic side for enchiladas, Mexican rice is fluffy, fragrant, and mildly seasoned, providing the perfect balance to the bold flavors of the enchiladas.

• Refried Beans: Creamy, velvety refried beans add a comforting, savory element to the meal, complementing the spices of the enchiladas.

• Guacamole and Chips: The cool, creamy guacamole paired with crispy tortilla chips is a delicious appetizer that works perfectly with the richness of the enchiladas.

• Roasted Vegetables: A simple medley of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, offers a light, healthy contrast to the indulgent enchiladas.

Drink pairings:

• Margaritas: A classic Mexican cocktail, margaritas, with their zesty lime flavor and crisp finish, are the perfect match for the rich flavors of the enchiladas.

• Mexican Beer: A cold, refreshing Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo is an excellent choice for pairing with this dish.

• Agua Fresca: For a non-alcoholic option, agua fresca—especially the cucumber-lime or hibiscus varieties—provides a cool, refreshing contrast to the warmth of the enchiladas.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Enchiladas Divorciadas turn out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:

• Fry the tortillas lightly: Don’t over-fry the tortillas as it can make them too crispy and difficult to roll. Frying them lightly will help them stay soft and pliable, ensuring they don’t tear when you fill them.

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The key to great-tasting enchiladas lies in the quality of the ingredients. Use fresh tomatillos, chiles, and cilantro for the salsas, and opt for good-quality cheese and chicken.

• Control the heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of serrano peppers in the green salsa. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a gentle green bell pepper instead of a serrano.

• Pre-make your sauces: Both the red chile sauce and the tomatillo salsa can be made in advance and stored in the freezer. This makes the assembly process quicker and easier, especially when preparing the dish for a large group.

Potential Health Benefits

Enchiladas Divorciadas feature several ingredients that offer health benefits when enjoyed in moderation. The chicken provides lean protein, which is important for muscle repair and growth, while the tomatillos in the green salsa are a great source of antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which supports the immune system. The red chile sauce contains capsaicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and the corn tortillas offer a gluten-free option that can be beneficial for those with gluten sensitivities.

However, it’s important to note that the dish can be high in fat and sodium, especially if you’re using full-fat cheese and salted broth. To make the dish healthier, you can experiment with reduced-fat cheese, use a low-sodium broth, or increase the amount of vegetables in the filling.

Conclusion

Enchiladas Divorciadas are a vibrant, flavorful, and visually stunning dish that showcases the best of Mexican cuisine. With their contrasting red and green sauces, tender tortillas, and savory fillings, they bring together a symphony of flavors that will captivate your taste buds. Whether you’re making them for a festive holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. So, why not try your hand at these colorful enchiladas? With the tips and tricks provided, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s both delicious and memorable.