Gabriella D'AgostinoThis article provides a detailed guide to preparing an Old El Paso green enchilada recipe. The recipe offers a convenient starting point for creating a delicious and satisfying meal, adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs. Understanding the ingredients and steps involved ensures a successful outcome, and this guide provides helpful tips and troubleshooting advice. The nutritional information is analyzed to allow for informed choices, making this recipe a valuable resource for home cooks of all skill levels. The recipe’s versatility and ease of preparation make it a popular choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This comprehensive approach ensures a fulfilling culinary experience.
The Old El Paso green enchilada recipe is known for its simplicity and flavorful results. The pre-made sauce offers convenience without compromising on taste, providing a foundation for a customizable dish. Many variations exist, allowing for the incorporation of different cheeses, proteins, and vegetables to match individual preferences. The recipe’s success hinges on proper tortilla preparation and even sauce distribution, ensuring each enchilada is evenly cooked and flavorful. Mastering this dish allows for easy replication and confident experimentation with alternative ingredients. The detailed instructions outlined here streamline the cooking process, minimizing time and effort while maximizing deliciousness.
This recipe is easily customizable to dietary needs and preferences, with options for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free adaptations available with minimal adjustments to the ingredient list. The use of readily-available components makes it practical for busy schedules and novice cooks. The consistent results obtained make this recipe a reliable staple for many home kitchens. Its adaptability to different cuisines and flavor profiles allows for creative experimentation and exploration within the culinary arts.
Ingredients for the Old El Paso Green Enchilada Recipe
- 1 package (10 ounces) Old El Paso green enchilada sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or chicken (or vegetarian substitute)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions for the Old El Paso Green Enchilada Recipe
- Brown the ground beef or chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
- Add onion, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and green chilies to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Warm the tortillas according to package directions.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture on each tortilla.
- Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the enchiladas.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 350F (175C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately with desired toppings.
Estimated Time and Servings for this Old El Paso Green Enchilada Recipe
This recipe provides a comprehensive guide to preparing Old El Paso green enchiladas. The preparation time, including cooking and baking, is approximately 45 minutes, yielding approximately 6 servings. The recipes simplicity and clear instructions ensure an efficient culinary process resulting in a satisfying meal. Careful attention to cooking times and temperature guarantees perfectly cooked tortillas and a delicious, flavorful outcome. The nutritional information below provides a clearer understanding of the meal’s nutritional profile.
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 25 minutes | 20-25 minutes | 6 |
Nutritional Information for the Old El Paso Green Enchilada Recipe
The nutritional content of this Old El Paso green enchilada recipe varies based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. The primary nutritional components stem from the protein source (beef or chicken), the cheese, and the enchilada sauce. These components contribute significantly to the overall calorie, fat, protein, and carbohydrate content. Its advisable to use a nutritional calculator with the exact ingredients used for a personalized analysis. Accurate calculations require precise measurements of all ingredients.
Please note that the following is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. This data should not be considered a substitute for professional nutritional advice.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-450 |
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Protein | 20-25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30-40g |
Tips for Cooking the Old El Paso Green Enchilada Recipe
These tips optimize the cooking process, resulting in flavorful and visually appealing enchiladas. Careful attention to detail ensures consistency and enhances the overall quality of the dish. Practicing these techniques builds confidence and facilitates the creation of a delicious meal every time.
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Proper Tortilla Warming:
Gently warm tortillas to make them pliable and prevent cracking. Avoid over-warming, which can lead to dryness and breakage. Microwaving briefly or steaming is recommended. Proper warming ensures easy rolling and prevents tortilla tears.
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Even Sauce Distribution:
Ensure even distribution of the filling and sauce for consistent flavor and texture in each enchilada. This prevents some enchiladas from being overly saucy or dry. Careful pouring and spreading techniques are crucial for even distribution.
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Cheese Selection:
Experiment with different types of cheese to find your preferred taste and melt. Monterey Jack is a popular choice for its creamy texture and melt, but other cheeses offer unique flavor profiles. Choosing the right cheese enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Spice Level Adjustment:
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder or using a milder or spicier enchilada sauce. This customization caters to individual preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys the meal. Careful spice adjustment is crucial for diverse palates.
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Meat Alternatives:
Substitute ground beef or chicken with vegetarian options like lentils, beans, or vegetables for a healthier or plant-based alternative. This flexibility caters to different dietary needs and preferences. Creative substitutions maintain the dish’s structure and flavor profile.
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Baking Temperature:
Maintain consistent baking temperature to prevent burning or undercooking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature monitoring. Consistent heat ensures even cooking and optimal results.
The Old El Paso green enchilada recipes success lies in the meticulous execution of each step, leading to a cohesive and flavorsome dish. Mastering the techniques enhances culinary skills and increases confidence in tackling more complex recipes. The simplicity of the recipe combined with the delicious results makes it a favored choice for many home cooks.
Careful consideration of each step, from ingredient preparation to baking, allows for a consistent and high-quality outcome every time. The final product, properly prepared, is a testament to the precision and care invested in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Old El Paso Green Enchilada Recipe
These frequently asked questions address common concerns and challenges encountered while preparing Old El Paso green enchiladas. Addressing these questions ensures a smooth and successful cooking experience.
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Can I use different types of tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas. However, corn tortillas are traditionally used and offer a slightly different texture and taste. Both types will yield satisfactory results. Consider personal preference when choosing tortilla type.
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What if I don’t have all the spices listed?
You can omit spices if necessary, but the flavor will be slightly altered. The base flavors will still be present, even without all the suggested spices. Experimentation is encouraged to find your ideal spice blend.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and bake them later. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake, adding a few minutes to the baking time. Pre-assembly allows for easier meal prep, especially for busy schedules.
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How can I make it spicier?
Add more chili powder or use a spicier enchilada sauce. Consider incorporating chopped jalapeos or serrano peppers for extra heat. Adjust the spiciness to match personal preference.
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How do I prevent the tortillas from breaking?
Gently warm the tortillas before filling to make them more pliable. Avoid overfilling to prevent cracking. Careful handling and proper warming techniques minimize tortilla breakage.
The Old El Paso green enchilada recipe provides a foundation for culinary creativity and experimentation. Its adaptability allows for customization and exploration within the culinary arts.
Understanding the nuances of this recipe, from ingredient selection to cooking techniques, enhances the home cooks culinary skills and provides a pathway to culinary excellence. The rewards of a perfectly crafted dish are well worth the effort.
In conclusion, mastering this recipe allows for the creation of a flavorful and satisfying dish, readily adapted to suit various tastes and preferences. The detailed instructions and helpful tips provide a comprehensive guide to success, turning a simple recipe into a culinary achievement.