traditional chili relleno recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best traditional chili relleno recipe

I’ve been making traditional chili relleno for years, and it’s a staple in our household. This dish originated in Mexico, where it’s known as ‘chile relleno,’ which translates to ‘stuffed pepper.’

It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that consists of roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a mixture of cheese, meat, and spices. The key to making this dish is to choose the right type of peppers – poblanos are the best choice because they’re mild and have a rich, earthy flavor.

To make this dish, you’ll need to roast the peppers over an open flame or in the oven until they’re charred and blistered. Once they’re cooked, you can peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and fill them with your desired filling.

I like to use a mix of cheddar cheese, ground beef, and spices. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Traditional Chili Relleno

4.7 from 1899 votes

Chili Relleno is a traditional Mexican dish featuring poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, coated in a light batter, and fried to golden perfection. This dish is a delightful blend of smoky, spicy, and cheesy flavors, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chili Relleno

4 large poblano peppers
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1 cup water
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Tomato Sauce

2 cups tomato sauce
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2Roast the poblano peppers on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is blistered and charred on all sides.
3Place the peppers in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam for 10 minutes.
4This will make it easier to remove the skins.
5While the peppers are steaming, prepare the batter.
6In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
7Gradually add the water, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
Set aside.
8In a separate bowl, mix the tomato sauce, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Set aside.
9Carefully peel the skins off the peppers and make a slit down the side of each pepper to remove the seeds and membranes.
10Stuff each pepper with about 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, pressing gently to close the opening.
11Dip each stuffed pepper into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
12In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F.
13Carefully place the battered peppers into the hot oil using a slotted spoon.
14Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the batter is golden brown and crispy.
15Use tongs to turn the peppers gently.
16Remove the fried chili rellenos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
17Serve the chili rellenos hot, drizzled with the tomato sauce.
18Garnish with additional shredded cheese and chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Deep fryer or large skillet
Slotted spoon
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier chili relleno, leave some of the seeds and membranes in the peppers. You can also use a combination of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack and cheddar, for added flavor.

I think that chili rellenos are a great dish for any occasion. They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.

You can serve them as a main dish or a side dish, and they pair well with a variety of other dishes. Chili rellenos are always a hit at family gatherings, and they are a great way to introduce your family to traditional Mexican cuisine.

I like to serve them with a side of rice and beans, and a fresh salad. This is a recipe that is always a good idea.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chili Relleno

Q: What type of cheese should I use for chili relleno?

A: You can use a variety of cheeses for chili relleno, but I find that a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well. You can also use other types of cheese like Oaxaca or Asadero if you prefer a milder flavor.

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