The dish's colors - green peppers and parsley, white nogada sauce, and red pomegranate seeds - echo the Mexican flag, making it not just a feast for the palate, but also a visual delight. This exquisite fusion of sweet and savory, history and tradition, makes Chiles en Nogada a cherished symbol of Mexican gastronomy, particularly enjoyed during the country's patriotic festivities.
1pouchcinnamon, nutmeg, oregano, black pepper, cloves, thyme, chili
Instructions
Peppers
On a lined BAKING SHEET, bake peppers at 450°F 10-15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes until the peel loosens on all sides.
Let them cool. Peel them.
Cut them lengthwise into halves. Remove stem & seeds.
Nogada
In a BLENDER, blend nuts, cheese, and 1/2 cup of milk.
Add a little milk until the sauce is pourable but not running.
Picadillo
In a large PAN, heat 2 tbsp oil over medium heat.
Stir-fry meat until browned.
Add Chiles en Nogada spices, tomato puree, 1 cup broth, and fresh fruits. Mix well.
Cover. Cook over medium-low heat until apples are almost tender.
Add raisins. Season with salt & pepper to taste.
Continue to cook 20 minutes. Check every 5 minutes. Add broth if necessary.
Assemble & Serve
Place the pepper halves on PLATES and fill with picadillo.
Pour nogada sauce on top.
Optionally, sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and parsley.
Serve with a side of rice or quinoa.
Enjoy!
Notes
[1] For an authentic version, substitute with 6 poblano peppers.
[2] For an authentic version, peel walnuts after they soaked, and place the peeled nuts into a cup of milk until you are ready to use them.
Alternative: cashews, almonds, or hazelnuts.
[3] For an authentic version, use goat cream cheese.
[4] They are many variations to substitute cream cheese and milk, for instance, with Mexican cream, or with the addition of a bit sour cream. Optionally, add 1/4 cup of dry sherry or white wine.
[5] beef & pork or any other, or 1/2 lb shredded cooked meat
Vegetarian alternative: 1 can black beans
[6] For an authentic version, use 1 apple, 1 pear, 1 peach, and 1/2 ripe plantain.
[7] Recommended to substitute half of the raisins with pineapple bits, lemon bits, or chopped apricot