Embrace the aromatic wonder and delectable taste of traditional Mexican cuisine with an unexpected twist. Entomatadas, a cherished dish across Mexico, undergoes a slight yet profound modification when cloves are brought into the mix. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create this unique and flavorful dish that promises to elevate your culinary adventures.
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 10 Roma tomatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 3-5 whole cloves
- 1 small white onion
- 1 serrano or jalapeño pepper (optional for heat)
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded chicken or cheese (for filling)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup crumbled Cotija or fresh cheese
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
- Cream or sour cream for serving
Step-by-Step Preparation:
1. Roast Your Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tomatoes, garlic (with skin), onion (cut into quarters), and the pepper (if using) on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 20-25 minutes, or until tomatoes start to burst and the skins are charred.
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
Once roasted, peel the garlic, remove the skin from tomatoes, and transfer all roasted ingredients into a blender. Add whole cloves, and blend until smooth. Season with salt to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add some water or chicken broth.
3. Cooking the Sauce:
Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat, then carefully pour in the blended mixture. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The cloves should add a subtle warmth that complements the tomato’s tanginess.
📝 Note: Cloves can be overpowering. Start with a few and adjust to taste.
4. Filling Preparation:
If using chicken, shred it finely. If opting for cheese, crumble or shred it. Both fillings offer distinct textures and flavors.
5. Assembling the Entomatadas:
Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan, then lightly fry each tortilla for a few seconds on each side to soften them. Drain them on paper towels.
Dip each tortilla into the tomato sauce, place a small amount of filling in the center, and roll it up. Arrange them seam side down in a serving dish.
6. Final Touches:
Spoon extra sauce over the entomatadas. Garnish with crumbled cheese, cilantro, and a drizzle of cream. You can also add sliced radishes or diced avocados for a fresh touch.
Serving and Enjoyment:
Present your entomatadas warm, ideally with sides like black beans or Mexican rice, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Final Thoughts:
Creating entomatadas with cloves introduces a sophisticated depth to a traditional recipe. The cloves add an aromatic layer that harmonizes with the other ingredients, transforming this dish into something you’ll want to make again and again. This twist not only brings an interesting flavor profile but also connects the rich culinary heritage of Mexico with your personal touch in the kitchen.
Can I use dried cloves instead of whole?
+
Yes, you can use ground cloves but start with a small amount (about 1⁄8 teaspoon) since ground cloves are more potent. Adjust to taste.
How can I store leftover entomatadas?
+
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
What other fillings work well with entomatadas?
+
Besides chicken or cheese, you can try fillings like shredded beef, pork, or even vegetarian options like grilled vegetables or beans.
