Baked Chili Rellanos

When it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine, few dishes evoke the same warmth, spice, and satisfaction as baked chili rellenos. With their perfectly roasted chilies stuffed with a savory blend of cheeses and drenched in a bold, homemade sauce, chili rellenos deliver bold flavors in every bite. In this comprehensive guide, we take you through a step-by-step process to prepare a restaurant-quality baked chili relleno at home using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. Let’s dive into this rich culinary experience.

🧀 Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Chili Rellenos

Below is a breakdown of the ingredients required for both the stuffed chilies and the homemade sauce that elevates this dish to gourmet status.

Step 1: Roasting the Chilies

Roasting the chilies is essential to develop their smoky flavor and ensure a soft texture for stuffing. You can do this on a gas stovetop, grill, or broiler:

• Gas Stove Method: Place chilies directly over the flame, turning occasionally until charred and blistered on all sides.

• Broiler Method: Set oven to broil. Place chilies on a baking sheet and broil, turning every few minutes until blackened and bubbling.

Step 2: Removing the Skins

• Once roasted, place the chilies in a sealed plastic bag or cover them with a towel for 10 minutes to steam. This loosens the skins.

• Peel away the skins gently. Avoid tearing the flesh.

Step 3: Slicing and Stuffing

• Slice each chili down one side, lengthwise.

• Gently open them and remove the seeds and membranes.

• Fill each chili with a generous amount of the cheese blend, reserving some for topping.

🍅 Making the Perfect Chili Relleno Sauce

A rich, flavorful sauce is the soul of any great chili relleno. Here’s how to make it:

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a small saucepan, heat a tablespoon of oil. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent.

2. Add Garlic: Add both the fresh garlic and garlic powder. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Combine Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced green chilies, chicken broth, and oregano.

4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

🧑‍🍳 Baking the Chili Rellenos to Perfection

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Arrange Chilies: Place the stuffed chilies in a baking dish, stuffed side down to help retain the cheese.

3. Pour the Sauce: Evenly pour the prepared sauce over the chilies.

4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.

5. Bake: Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.