Discover the classic Mexican dish, Chiles en Nogada! This traditional recipe features roasted poblano chiles stuffed with a flavorful picadillo—a savory blend of meat, fruits, and spices—topped with a rich walnut sauce. Perfect for festive occasions, this dish combines a unique mix of sweet and savory flavors, showcasing the best of Mexican cuisine. Follow our easy step-by-step guide to create this delightful and colorful recipe at home.

Ingredients:

For the Picadillo:

- 4 large poblano chiles

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 pound ground beef

- 1/2 pound ground pork

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 cup tomato sauce

- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped

- 1/2 cup raisins

- 1 apple, peeled and diced

- 1 pear, peeled and diced

- 1 plantain, peeled and diced

- 1/4 cup candied citron, chopped

- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

- 1/2 teaspoon cloves

- Salt and pepper to taste

For the Walnut Sauce:

- 2 cups walnuts, soaked in water for 2 hours and drained

- 1 cup milk

- 1/2 cup sugar

- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

- 1/4 teaspoon cloves

- 1/4 cup port wine (optional)

- 1/4 cup fresh pomegranate seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Poblano Chiles:

  - Roast the poblano chiles over an open flame or under a broiler until the skins are charred and blistered.

  - Place the chiles in a plastic bag and let them steam for about 10 minutes. Peel off the charred skins and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.

Make the Picadillo:

  - In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.

  - Add the ground beef and pork to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked.

  - Stir in the tomato sauce, almonds, raisins, apple, pear, plantain, and candied citron. Season with cinnamon, cloves, salt, and pepper.

  - Simmer the mixture over low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Walnut Sauce:

  - Blend the soaked walnuts with milk until smooth. Add sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and port wine (if using). Adjust sweetness to taste.

Assemble the Chiles en Nogada:

  - Carefully stuff each roasted poblano chile with the picadillo mixture.

  - Arrange the stuffed chiles on a serving platter and generously pour the walnut sauce over them.

  - Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and added flavor.

Serve:

  - Enjoy Chiles en Nogada warm or at room temperature. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or tortillas.

Feel free to adjust the spices and fruit according to your taste preferences. Enjoy this traditional Mexican delight!

Nutritional Value

Poblano Chiles:

 - Calories: 20

 - Protein: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 5g

 - Fiber: 2g

 - Vitamin C: 80% of the Daily Value (DV)

Benefits: Rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health. They also contain antioxidants and vitamins A and K, which promote overall health.

Ground Beef:

 - Calories: 250

 - Protein: 26g

 - Fat: 17g

 - Iron: 15% of the DV

Benefits: Excellent source of protein and iron, which are crucial for muscle growth and oxygen transport. Provides B vitamins that support energy production.

Ground Pork:

 - Calories: 290

 - Protein: 25g

 - Fat: 22g

 - Vitamin B12: 25% of the DV

Benefits: High in protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12, which supports red blood cell formation and nerve health. Also provides zinc and phosphorus.

Onion:

 - Calories: 40

 - Protein: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 9g

 - Fiber: 1.7g

 - Vitamin C: 10% of the DV

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and sulfur compounds that support heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties. Good for digestion and immune function.

Garlic:

 - Calories: 149

 - Protein: 6g

 - Carbohydrates: 33g

 - Fiber: 2.1g

 - Manganese: 23% of the DV

Benefits: Known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Supports cardiovascular health and may help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Tomato Sauce:

 - Calories: 29

 - Protein: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Vitamin C: 15% of the DV

Benefits: Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Provides vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

Almonds:

 - Calories: 579

 - Protein: 21g

 - Fat: 49g

 - Fiber: 12g

 - Vitamin E: 25% of the DV

Benefits: High in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Supports heart health, helps with weight management, and provides essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.

Raisins:

 - Calories: 299

 - Protein: 3g

 - Carbohydrates: 79g

 - Fiber: 3.7g

 - Iron: 5% of the DV

Benefits: Good source of iron and antioxidants. Supports digestive health and provides quick energy due to natural sugars.

Apple:

 - Calories: 52

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 14g

 - Fiber: 2.4g

 - Vitamin C: 5% of the DV

Benefits: High in fiber and vitamin C. Supports heart health, digestion, and provides antioxidants.

Pear:

 - Calories: 39

 - Protein: 0.4g

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Fiber: 3g

 - Vitamin C: 6% of the DV

Benefits: Rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C. Promotes healthy digestion, supports the immune system, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Plantain:

 - Calories: 122

 - Protein: 1.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 31g

 - Fiber: 2.3g

 - Vitamin A: 112% of the DV

Benefits: High in complex carbohydrates and vitamin A. Supports eye health, digestion, and provides sustained energy.

Candied Citron:

 - Calories: 300

 - Protein: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 76g

 - Fiber: 4g

 - Vitamin C: 15% of the DV

Benefits: Provides vitamin C and antioxidants. However, due to its high sugar content, it should be consumed in moderation.

Walnuts:

 - Calories: 654

 - Protein: 15g

 - Fat: 65g

 - Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 9g

 - Vitamin E: 0.7mg

Benefits: Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. Also rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

Milk:

 - Calories: 42

 - Protein: 3.4g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 5g

 - Calcium: 120mg

Benefits: High in calcium and protein. Supports bone health and muscle function.

Sugar:

 - Calories: 387

 - Carbohydrates: 100g

Benefits: Provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie content and lack of essential nutrients.

Pomegranate Seeds:

 - Calories: 83

 - Protein: 1.7g

 - Carbohydrates: 19g

 - Fiber: 4g

 - Vitamin C: 17% of the DV

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supports heart health, and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

These ingredients combine to create a dish that is not only flavorful but also rich in various nutrients that support overall health.