Chile Rellenos 🌶️🧀
Ingredients:
For the Chiles:
- 6 poblano chiles
- 8 oz Oaxacan-style string cheese, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack
For the Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dredging
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp fine salt, plus more for sprinkling
- 1 (12 oz) bottle or can of lager-style beer
- Vegetable oil, for deep-frying
Mexican Tomato Sauce (Optional):
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and roughly chopped
- 1/4 medium yellow onion
- 6 garlic cloves
- 5 fresh cilantro sprigs
- 1 serrano chile (with seeds)
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (preferably Mexican)
Directions:
Prepare the Chiles:
- Broil the Chiles: Preheat the broiler, positioning the rack at the top. Place the chiles on a foil-lined broiler pan and broil, turning occasionally, until charred all over (about 10 minutes). Transfer to a bowl, cover with a lid or plastic wrap, and let them steam and cool for about 10 minutes.
- Peel and Stuff the Chiles: Once cooled, rub the charred skin off each chile. Using a small knife, make a lengthwise slit in each chile to create a pocket, and remove the seeds. Cut the cheese into six slabs, about 3/4 the length of each chile, and stuff the cheese into each chile. Secure with a skewer or long toothpick if needed.
Make the Batter:
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cumin, and salt. Gradually stir in the beer to create a smooth batter.
- Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to about 3 inches deep over medium heat. Using a deep-fry thermometer, bring the oil up to 365°F.
Fry the Chiles:
- Dredge and Fry the Chiles: Lightly dredge each chile in flour, then dip in the batter, coating completely. Carefully lower each chile into the hot oil and fry until golden and crispy. Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels. While still hot, sprinkle with a bit of salt.
Enjoy:
Serve your beautifully crispy and cheesy Chile Rellenos with Mexican Tomato Sauce if you like! The perfect blend of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors—you’re going to love this classic Mexican comfort food!