In the early 19th Century, Aztec and Spanish influences brought enchiladas to the newly formed country of Mexico. Over time, enchiladas became a significant part of Mexican cuisine. In New Mexico, Mexican cuisine developed somewhat independently, retaining elements of Indigenous, Spanish, Mexican, and Latin influences. Further, enchiladas evolved, giving rise to what’s affectionately known as Christmas enchiladas or stacked enchiladas.
What Does “Christmas Style” Mean to People from New Mexico?
In New Mexico, Christmas is celebrated year-round, and these unique enchiladas are a staple on almost every menu. While you might not have witnessed someone ordering a dish drenched in both red and green chile sauce, the term “Christmas” doesn’t refer to the holiday but instead pays homage to the Mexican heritage of New Mexico and the coincidence? The local Hatch chile pepper colors happen to be red and green.
Moreover, New Mexico is the only state with an official question: “Red or green?” referring to the choice of chile sauce for smothering and flavoring every New Mexican dish (they even put it on burgers and pizzas!). This special sauce is made using Hatch Chiles.
Green Chile Sauce or Red Chile Sauce: Which Sauce is Traditionally Used?
Enchilada sauce, with a name that means “spicy” in Spanish, is a smooth chile-based sauce.
Traditionally, enchiladas have been made using a sauce made from rehydrated red chile peppers, fresh onion, fresh garlic, and herbs. This has been the way enchiladas were prepared for centuries. Further, the classic version features red chile sauce, derived from red chiles, typically flavored with vinegar, onions, and garlic. Some red sauces may include tomatoes or tomato paste, but it’s not a requirement. In contrast, green chile sauce is made from green chiles and often includes tomatillos. They are sweeter green tomato variants commonly used in Mexican cuisine.
Combining both red and green sauces on one dish creates a unique experience. It’s a smoky, sweet note from the red chiles and a lively, spicy kick from the green chiles. When they meld in the center of the plate, something special happens as a brand new sauce is born!
Nowadays, people in the United States have gotten creative with enchiladas, experimenting with a variety of sauces. Yes, even if they aren’t authentic. And that’s perfectly fine! If it tastes good, go ahead and enjoy it.
Which Tortillas Are Best for Enchiladas?
When it comes to tortillas, there are two main types: corn and flour. Traditionally, enchiladas are crafted using masa harina, a kind of corn flour. Even with the widespread production of wheat tortillas today, corn tortillas remain the more popular choice.
Ancient native tribes in Central America cultivated and revered corn, grinding it to create their tortillas. Also, enchiladas were always prepared with corn tortillas until the Spanish introduced wheat flour.
In the present day, corn tortillas are still the preferred option. They not only bring extra flavor but also resist becoming soggy and maintain their shape better when rolled.
Why Are Hatch Chile Peppers Important in Enchiladas?
Chiles play a central role in stacked enchiladas, and traditional recipes proudly rely on Hatch chile peppers and nothing else for their sauces. These peppers are grown and harvested exclusively in the Hatch Valley region of Southern New Mexico. Besides, these renowned chiles thrive in the unique climate and soil of this area, making Hatch Valley akin to what Napa Valley is to grapes.
Also, New Mexico chile has a rich history. Native American Pueblo tribes used local pepper varieties, which were later influenced by European cultivation techniques brought by the Spanish. The modern chiles we have today were developed and introduced in 1894 by a local horticulturist named Fabián Garcia. Further, the state’s connection to chiles is so deep that in 2012, lawmakers passed a law prohibiting the sale of chili peppers labeled as “New Mexican” unless they were actually grown in New Mexico or carried a disclaimer label saying “Not Grown in New Mexico.”
Getting Your Stacked Enchiladas Ready!
Now that you’ve learned about the history of Christmas enchiladas, it’s time to dig in. While this recipe can be customized in various ways, here’s a traditional approach.
- Begin by softening your tortillas.
- Heat up some canola oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Stack 2 to 3 tortillas and place them in the oil using metal tongs.
- Fry them, turning as needed, just until they become soft, which should take less than a minute.
- Transfer your softened tortillas to a plate and preheat your broiler on high.
- Now, fill each tortilla with 2 tablespoons of cheese and sliced green onions to your liking. You can also add your preferred filling, be it chicken, beef, or shrimp.
- Roll them up as tightly as possible and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Further, pour red and green sauce on both sides to cover the enchiladas.
- Sprinkle as much cheese as you desire on top and broil until the cheese melts.
- Finish by garnishing with fresh toppings and a dollop of sour cream.
Moreover, these can also be served with Spanish rice and pinto beans on the side!
One of the finest ways to explore New Mexico is through its wonderful cuisine. If you’re unsure where to start or overwhelmed by choices, Christmas enchiladas offer a burst of bold flavors and unique combinations that are guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Plus, you can proudly display your newfound New Mexico expertise all year round by showing off your chile preferences in your style.
Takeaway
Every dish from New Mexico has a history that pulls you in; the rest of the magic happens when the food touches your taste buds! You can’t put it down, and you don’t have to. Try making it on your own, and with the holiday season starting, what would be a better way to make some Christmas style Enchiladas? Paint everything green and red.
But before that, aren’t you forgetting something? Do you have all the ingredients? If not, all you have to do is browse our products and order away. And then you can be on your way to experiment with the delicious food on your own.
Related article: Newscognition