Make vegetarian Mexican chiles rellenos in 4 simple steps
Chiles rellenos, a storied Mexican dish, boasts roasted peppers stuffed with cheese, encased in a light batter, and fried. This vegetarian and eggless adaptation honors the original's rich flavors while catering to varied dietary preferences. It's a culinary classic reimagined for all to enjoy. Let's start cooking and bring the authentic taste of Mexico into your home kitchen.
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this dish, you will need six large poblano peppers, two cups of shredded cheese (such as Oaxaca or mozzarella), one cup of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon baking powder, one cup of milk (dairy or plant-based), two tablespoons vegetable oil for frying, and salt to taste. For garnish, arrange for diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and sour cream.
Prepare the poblano peppers
Start by roasting the poblano peppers until they blister. This can be done over a flame or under a broiler. Once they're evenly blackened, place them in a covered bowl for 10 minutes to steam, making the skin easier to peel. Then, gently remove the skin and create a slit down one side of each pepper to take out seeds, keeping stems intact.
Create the filling
Carefully stuff each poblano pepper with a generous portion of shredded cheese, ensuring not to overfill to prevent bursting during frying. Once filled, gently press the edges to seal. This careful closure is key to keeping the cheese contained and maintaining the peppers' shape when they are submerged in hot oil for that perfect golden brown finish.
Prepare batter and fry
In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. Add milk slowly to form a batter thick enough to coat without dripping. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, dip each cheese-stuffed pepper into the batter for an even layer. Carefully place in the oil and fry until each side is golden brown. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
Serve with garnish
Present the chiles rellenos warm, topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes and freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Complement these with generous dollops of sour cream to enhance the richness, if you choose. Savor this vegetarian rendition of a cherished Mexican classic, which delivers a full-bodied flavor experience while staying true to its cultural roots and culinary traditions.
