Entrees

Sweet and Sour Mexican Style Fish

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pati Jinich pescado agridulce or sweet and sour Mexican style fish
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4.72 from 7 votes

Sweet and Sour Mexican Style Fish

Sweet and Sour Mexican Style Fish recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 8 "In Search of La Mixteca"
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: canela, cinnamon, fish, olives, tomatillos
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 cup white onion slivered
  • 4 garlic cloves finely chopped
  • 1 pound ripe Roma tomatoes diced
  • 1 pound tomatillos husked and rinsed, diced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt plus more to season fish
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground ceylon cinnamon or canela
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/4 cup sliced manzanilla olives stuffed with pimientos
  • 2 pounds halibut filet skin on, cut into 6 pieces

Instructions

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet set over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and cook for a couple minutes, until it starts to wilt. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Incorporate the tomatoes, tomatillos and sprinkle in the salt, sugar, allspice, and cinnamon. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened.
  • Incorporate the almonds and olives and continue cooking for another 7 to 8 minutes. Turn off the heat.
  • Season fish with salt to taste. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in a large casserole set over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the fish skin side down and cook for one to two minutes, until the skin begins to brown.
  • Scrape the chunky sauce over the fish, cover the casserole and reduce heat to low. Cook for 10 minutes. I like to serve it over rice or steamed potatoes.

Notes

Pescado Agridulce

Almendrado with Chicken

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Print Recipe
4.38 from 8 votes

Almendrado with Chicken

Almendrado with Chicken recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 7 "The Art of Mole"
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time50 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: almonds, canela, capers, chicken, cinnamon, olives, pati's mexican table, Pickled Jalapeños, raisins
Servings: 4 to 5 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1/2 large white onion cut into pieces
  • 6 cloves garlic unpeeled
  • 2 pounds (about 7 or 8) roma tomatoes
  • 5 whole cloves
  • 12 black peppercorns
  • 1 1-inch stick ceylon cinnamon or canela
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 3-pound chicken cut into serving pieces (wings removed for later use and breasts cut in half)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 2 cups chicken broth divided
  • 1 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/2 cup black raisins
  • 1/2 cup manzanilla olives stuffed with pimiento sliced
  • 1/4 cup capers chopped
  • 1/2 cup pickled jalapeño rajas or slices

Instructions

  • Place onion, garlic and tomatoes under the broiler, or on an already heated skillet, griddle or comal set over medium heat. Roast or char for about 10 minutes, flipping in between, until ingredients are completely charred, cooked and mushy. Set aside and peel the garlic cloves when cool enough to handle.
  • In a small skillet set over medium heat, toast the cloves, peppercorns and cinnamon stick for a couple minutes, moving and flipping them around to toast evenly. Set aside. Toast the oregano for 10 to 15 seconds and remove from the heat.
  • In the jar of a blender, place the charred onion, peeled garlic and charred tomatoes, along with the tops from the whole cloves (discard the stems), the peppercorns, cinnamon and oregano. Puree until completely smooth.
  • Heat the oil in a large casserole set over medium-high heat until very hot, but not smoking. Season the chicken with the salt and brown the chicken pieces for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You may need to do this in batches in order to not to crowd the casserole. Once you have removed all the chicken, immediately pour the tomato sauce into the hot oil and cover, as it will splatter. Reduce heat to medium.
  • Add a cup of chicken broth to the blender and puree for a few seconds to get all the remaining thick sauce out of the blender, pour into the simmering sauce and cover again. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Incorporate the remaining cup of chicken broth, almonds, raisins, olives and capers. Add the browned chicken pieces, cover and reduce heat to low and cook for 20 more minutes.
  • Remove the lid and add the pickled jalapeño slices. Increase heat to medium and cook for another 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken. Serve with rice.

Notes

Almendrado con Pollo

Marinated Pork and Creamy Slaw Ciabatta Sandwich

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pati Jinich
Print Recipe
4.34 from 6 votes

Marinated Pork and Creamy Slaw Ciabatta Sandwich

Marinated Pork and Creamy Slaw Ciabatta Sandwich recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 13 "More Than Just a Meal"
Cook Time2 minutes
Total Time2 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: cecina, pati's mexican table, pork, Sandwich
Servings: 1 sandwich
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 pieces Cecina grilled
  • 1 ciabatta roll, or one 3-inch piece of ciabatta bread halved and toasted
  • 1/2 cup Creamy Slaw
  • 6 slices ripe avocado

Instructions

  • Add a couple slices of warm Cecina to the bottom half of a toasted ciabatta roll. Top with Creamy Slaw and the avocado slices. Serve immediately.

Notes

Chapata con Cecina y Ensalada Cremosita de Col

Caramelized Pasilla Brisket

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pati Jinich caramelized pasilla brisket
Print Recipe
4.75 from 8 votes

Caramelized Pasilla Brisket

Caramelized Pasilla Brisket recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 10 "How I Got to Now"
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time4 hours
Total Time4 hours 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: ancho chiles, beef, braised, brisket, carrots, pasilla, potatoes, stew, tomatillos
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces (about 5 to 6) dried pasilla chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 3 pounds beef brisket trimmed
  • 2 teaspoons kosher or coarse sea salt divided
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 pounds tomatillos husked, rinsed, quartered
  • 1 large white onion cut into chunks
  • 10 garlic cloves peeled
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 4 ounces (or 1/2 cup) grated piloncillo or brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes halved
  • 1 1/2 pounds carrots peeled and cut diagonally into 1-inch pieces
  • Greens of your choice for salad
  • Freshly squeezed lime juice and olive oil to dress the salad

Instructions

  • Pre-heat the oven to 350°F.
  • Heat up a comal or skillet over medium heat, then toast the pasilla chiles for about 1 to 2 minutes, flipping with tongs as they toast. Remove from heat and place in a bowl.
  • Season the meat with 1 teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Heat oil in a large casserole or roasting pan set over high heat. Brown the meat for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Add the toasted pasilla chiles, tomatillos, onion, garlic, chicken broth, piloncillo, the remaining teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Make sure chiles are covered with the broth.
  • Cover and seal tight with a lid or aluminum foil. Place in the oven and braise for 3 to 3-and-a-half hours, or until meat is tender. Remove from the oven. Remove the meat and place on a chopping board.
  • In a pot with salted boiling water, cook the potatoes and the carrots for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender. Drain and reserve.
  • Pour all the remaining contents of the roasting pan into the jar of a blender and puree until completely smooth. Pour the sauce back into roasting pan.
  • Slice the meat against the grain into about 1/2 to 3/4-inch slices and return it to the roasting pan. Add the potatoes and carrots, cover everything with the sauce. Cover the dish and return to oven for another 30 minutes. Remove the lid or aluminum foil, return to the oven and cook uncovered for another 30 minutes.
  • Toss the greens of your choice with lime juice and olive oil to taste. Serve the brisket with the side salad.

Notes

Brisket en Salsa de Chile Pasilla

Three Cheese Chicken Pasta

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Print Recipe
5 from 9 votes

Three Cheese Chicken Pasta

Three Cheese Chicken Pasta recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 12 "Cheesy"
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: ancho chiles, cheese, chicken, cotija cheese, Muenster cheese, Oaxaca cheese, pasta, pati's mexican table, queso anejo
Servings: 8 to 10 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 garlic cloves minced or pressed
  • 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon kosher or coarse sea salt plus more for salting the water
  • To taste freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 pound dried spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup cubed Oaxaca cheese
  • 1 cup cubed asadero or muenster cheese
  • Fresh cilantro chopped, for serving
  • 1/2 cup crumbled queso añejo or cotija for garnish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat.
  • In a medium bowl combine the garlic, chili powder, oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add chicken to the bowl and toss until chicken is coated in the rub.
  • Once the water is boiling, cook the spaghetti until al dente, or according to package instructions. Strain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
  • In a large casserole set over medium-high heat, melt the butter with the oil. Once it melts, add the chicken and cook until all sides are browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the flour and continue to brown for another 30 seconds.
  • Pour in the milk and cream, scraping the bottom and sides of the pan to remove browned bits. Add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water – or more if desired. Let the liquids come to a simmer and reduce until they begin to thicken.
  • Add the Oaxaca and muenster cheese, saving the cojita for the topping. Once the cheese is slightly melted, take off the heat and stir in pasta. Stir until the pasta is completely coated and the cheese is melted. Serve hot. Garnish with a sprinkle of cilantro and cotija cheese.

Notes

Pasta con Pollo a los Tres Quesos

Pickled Poblano Rajas Tuna Melt

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pati Jinich poblano rajas tuna melt
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4.41 from 5 votes

Pickled Poblano Rajas Tuna Melt

Pickled Poblano Rajas Tuna Melt recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 13 "More Than Just a Meal"
Prep Time2 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time7 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: pati's mexican table, Poblano, Sandwich, tuna, tuna melt
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 7-ounce cans of tuna in water or oil drained
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • To taste kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 8 slices rye bread lightly toasted
  • 2 Pickled Poblanos stems removed and sliced into strips
  • 4 thick slices muenster cheese or 8 thin slices

Instructions

  • In a mixing bowl, mash the tuna with a fork until well shredded. Combine it with the mayo, lime juice and salt to taste.
  • Pre-heat the broiler, or you can use toaster oven.
  • Divide the tuna mixture between four slices of bread. Divide the poblano strips on top of the tuna, and top with the cheese. Place under broiler, or in the toaster oven, until the cheese is melted.
  • Place the remaining slices of toasted bread on top to close the sandwiches and serve.

Notes

Sándwich de Atún con Rajas de Poblano en Escabeche

Bacon Cheese Dogs with Avocado Relish

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Print Recipe
4.50 from 6 votes

Bacon Cheese Dogs with Avocado Relish

Bacon Cheese Dogs with Avocado Relish recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 12 "Cheesy"
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, bacon, cheese, Hot Dog, Mexican, Oaxaca, Pickled Jalapeños, queso, relish
Servings: 2 hot dogs
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the avocado relish:

  • 1 large (about 3 ounces) tomatillo husked, rinsed, cut into small dice
  • 4 scallions white and light green parts thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves and upper parts of stems chopped
  • 3 pickled whole jalapeños chopped, plus 2 sliced for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon brine from pickled jalapeños
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 1 ripe avocado halved, pitted, cut into small dice
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish or more to taste

For the hot dogs:

  • 2 slices bacon
  • 2 hot dogs
  • 2 cups Oaxaca cheese shredded
  • 2 hot dog buns

Instructions

To make the avocado relish:

  • In a medium bowl, add the tomatillo, scallions, cilantro, chopped pickled jalapeños, pickled jalapeño brine, lime juice, olive oil, and salt. Mix well. Incorporate the avocado and toss gently with a spoon to combine. Set aside.
  • In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise with the prepared horseradish. Set aside.
  • On a cutting board, roll one slice of bacon around each sausage link. Place the tip of the hot dog over one end of the bacon slice, then roll the sausage around on the diagonal so that the bacon wraps around it and covers it entirely.

To make the hot dogs:

  • Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the bacon-wrapped hot dogs and cook, turning every couple minutes, until crisped and browned on all sides. Remove from the heat. When cool enough to handle, cut a slit lengthwise down the middle of each, without cutting completely through.
  • Raise heat to medium-high. Add two piles of about 1 cup shredded cheese onto the skillet and top each with a hotdog, slit-side down. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese has completely melted and browned creating a cheese crust.
  • Meanwhile, open the buns but try not to separate the tops from the bottoms. Lightly toast the buns in the toaster or griddle. Spread a generous tablespoon of the horseradish mayonnaise onto each bun.
  • When bacon cheese hot links are ready, using a spatula, flip onto the bun, cheese side up. Top with a generous amount of the avocado relish, garnish with the pickled jalapeño slices and serve.

Notes

Hot dogs con Tocino, Queso y Aderezo de Aguacate

Coloradito Chicken and a New Season

Posted on by Pati Jinich

Oaxaca is a place I have been to countless times, but always leave wanting to go back.  No wonder I was eager to bring the crew, so they could experience all that I kept telling them about. And mostly, so they could help me capture it to bring to you.

My series director, Dan, must have been dizzy from me telling him how things are “different” in Oaxaca so many times. There is something in the air, and there is something in the way the light hits Oaxaca. It makes everything you think is familiar gain a completely different dimension. Maybe that is why Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s main cradles of art.

The blue in the sky seems a deeper shade of blue. The green in the plants, mountains and herbs looks more intense and has more saturated hues of green. When you wake up in the morning and open a window, the air smells fresher and feels more crisp. The sun shines brighter. And the word “diverse” has never had a better match.

Oaxaca is one of the – or the – most ethnically and culturally diverse places in all of Mexico. It has eight defined and distinctively different regions and 18 ethnic communities – each with their own culture, cuisine, language and pre-Hispanic forms of self governance and organization for life and society.

To put it simply, as my dad would say, Oaxaca is another world.

One of the common sayings related to Oaxaca is “the land of 7 moles.” But, the irony is that there are many more moles than that. There are dozens and dozens of them. Each mole has so many different versions, depending on the cook, the family or the town.

Here, I am sharing a Coloradito Mole with Chicken. I tested it many times at home to get the exact taste I experienced in the city of Oaxaca. So many times that Sami, my middle son, would joke “coloradito, mami, coloradito?” every time he walked in the kitchen and saw a large pot simmering.

Silky, delightfully sweet, savory, tangy, and with a light spice, it is a small window into the beautiful complex layers that Oaxaca has all around.

Try it at home and join me for the new season that is about to premiere! Check your local listings here.

pati jinich coloradito chicken
Print Recipe
4.29 from 7 votes

Coloradito Chicken

Here I am sharing a Coloradito Mole with Chicken. I tested it many times at home to get the exact taste I experienced in the city of Oaxaca. Silky, delightfully sweet, savory, tangy, and with a light spice, it is a small window into the beautiful complex layers that Oaxaca has all around.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Ancho, chayote, chicken, Chiles, Coloradito, green beans, Guajillo, Mole, Oaxaca, Pollo, Tomato
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe plantain
  • 6 ancho chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 5 guajillo chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 1 pound (or 3 to 4) ripe Roma tomatoes
  • 5 cloves garlic unpeeled
  • 1 1/2-inch thick slice of white onion
  • 1 1-inch-long stick ceylon cinnamon or canela (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ceylon cinnamon)
  • 3 whole cloves
  • 6 black peppercorns
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds
  • 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 1 tablespoon grated piloncillo or dark brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons kosher or coarse sea salt divided
  • 1 3-pound chicken cut into 8 serving pieces (wings removed for later use and breasts cut in half)
  • Vegetable oil for cooking the chicken
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 3-ounce bar of Mexican chocolate broken into pieces
  • 1 pound chayote squash peeled and sliced into 1-inch strips
  • 1 pound green beans trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Tortillas or rice to serve

Instructions

  • Pre-heat the oven to 400°F. Place the plantain in a baking dish lined with aluminum foil and make a couple of 1/2-inch slits on its skin. Bake until completely cooked through, about 40 minutes. Remove from the oven, when cool enough to handle, peel and slice. Set aside.
  • Heat a comal, griddle or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, toast the ancho and guajillo chiles for about 30 to 45 seconds per side, until fragrant and lightly toasted. Place chiles in a saucepan along with the whole tomatoes, cover with water and set over medium-high heat. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, until the chiles are rehydrated and plumped up, and the tomatoes are cooked and mushy.
  • On the same comal, griddle or skillet, char the unpeeled garlic cloves and the onion slice, until completely charred and softened, about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping a couple of times in between. Set aside to cool. Peel the garlic when cool enough to handle.
  • On a small skillet set over medium heat, toast the cinnamon stick for a minute or two until fragrant, flipping once. Next, toast the cloves and peppercorns for a minute, moving them around the entire time. Toast the almonds for a couple of minutes, until lightly browned, as well as sesame seeds. Lastly, toast the oregano for 5 to 10 seconds.
  • As each ingredient is finished being toasted, place it in the jar of the blender: the cinnamon, garlic, onion, cloves, peppercorns, almonds, sesame seeds, and oregano. Add the rehydrated chiles, cooked tomatoes and 1 cup of their cooking broth, and the plantain to the blender, as well. Incorporate the raisins, sugar and 1 teaspoon salt, and puree at least for a couple minutes until completely smooth. If your blender is on the smaller side, puree it in batches.
  • Set a large casserole over medium-high heat and heat enough oil to have about 1/8-inch of depth. Season the chicken with the remaining teaspoon of salt. Once the oil is hot, brown the chicken pieces in batches, making sure to not crowd the casserole. Cook until they have created a crust on the skin and are easy to flip, about 3 minutes per side. Place the finished pieces in a large bowl.
  • Once you are done browning the chicken, reduce the heat to medium-low. Carefully, and using the casserole’s lid as a shield (there will be splatters), pour the mole sauce into the oil. Stir and cover with the lid, leaving it slightly open, and cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally (still protecting yourself with the lid), until the sauce is very thick and seasoned. Add the chicken broth, chocolate pieces, and the browned chicken pieces, and cook for another 20 minutes. Add the chayote squash and green beans, give it a good stir, and cook until vegetables are cooked yet tender, another 10 minutes.
  • Serve with tortillas and/or rice.

Notes

Mole Coloradito con Pollo

Coloradito Chicken

Posted on by Pati Jinich
pati jinich coloradito chicken
Print Recipe
5 from 7 votes

Coloradito Chicken

Coloradito Chicken recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 6 “Women of Oaxaca”
Prep Time50 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: almonds, ancho chiles, canela, chayote, chicken, Chocolate, guajillo chiles, mexican chocolate, Mole, pati's mexican table, piloncillo, Plantains, raisins, sesame seeds
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe plantain
  • 6 ancho chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 5 guajillo chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 1 pound (or 3 to 4) ripe Roma tomatoes
  • 5 cloves garlic unpeeled
  • 1 1/2-inch thick slice of white onion
  • 1 1-inch-long stick ceylon cinnamon or canela (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ceylon cinnamon)
  • 3 whole cloves
  • 6 black peppercorns
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds
  • 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 1 tablespoon grated piloncillo or dark brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons kosher or coarse sea salt divided
  • 1 3-pound chicken cut into 8 serving pieces (wings removed for later use and breasts cut in half)
  • Vegetable oil for cooking the chicken
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 3-ounce bar of Mexican chocolate broken into pieces
  • 1 pound chayote squash peeled and sliced into 1-inch strips
  • 1 pound green beans trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Tortillas or rice to serve

Instructions

  • Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the plantain in a baking dish lined with aluminum foil and make a couple of 1/2-inch slits on its skin. Bake until completely cooked through, about 40 minutes. Remove from the oven, when cool enough to handle, peel and slice. Set aside.
  • Heat a comal, griddle or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, toast the ancho and guajillo chiles for about 30 to 45 seconds per side, until fragrant and lightly toasted. Place chiles in a saucepan along with the whole tomatoes, cover with water and set over medium-high heat. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, until the chiles are rehydrated and plumped up, and the tomatoes are cooked and mushy.
  • On the same comal, griddle or skillet, char the unpeeled garlic cloves and the onion slice, until completely charred and softened, about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping a couple of times in between. Set aside to cool. Peel the garlic when cool enough to handle.
  • On a small skillet set over medium heat, toast the cinnamon stick for a minute or two until fragrant, flipping once. Next, toast the cloves and peppercorns for a minute, moving them around the entire time. Toast the almonds for a couple of minutes, until lightly browned, as well as sesame seeds. Lastly, toast the oregano for 5 to 10 seconds.
  • As each ingredient is finished being toasted, place it in the jar of the blender: the cinnamon, garlic, onion, cloves, peppercorns, almonds, sesame seeds, and oregano. Add the rehydrated chiles, cooked tomatoes and 1 cup of their cooking broth, and the plantain to the blender, as well. Incorporate the raisins, sugar and 1 teaspoon salt, and puree at least for a couple minutes until completely smooth. If your blender is on the smaller side, puree it in batches.
  • Set a large casserole over medium-high heat and heat enough oil to have about 1/8-inch of depth. Season the chicken with the remaining teaspoon of salt. Once the oil is hot, brown the chicken pieces in batches, making sure to not crowd the casserole. Cook until they have created a crust on the skin and are easy to flip, about 3 minutes per side. Place the finished pieces in a large bowl.
  • Once you are done browning the chicken, reduce the heat to medium-low. Carefully, and using the casserole’s lid as a shield (there will be splatters), pour the mole sauce into the oil. Stir and cover with the lid, leaving it slightly open, and cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally (still protecting yourself with the lid), until the sauce is very thick and seasoned. Add the chicken broth, chocolate pieces, and the browned chicken pieces, and cook for another 20 minutes. Add the chayote squash and green beans, give it a good stir, and cook until vegetables are cooked yet tender, another 10 minutes.
  • Serve with tortillas and/or rice.

Notes

Mole Coloradito con Pollo

Meatballs in Guajillo Sauce

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Print Recipe
4.34 from 9 votes

Meatballs in Guajillo Sauce

Meatballs in Guajillo Sauce recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 5 "From Pueblo to City"
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Albondigas, epazote, guajillo chiles, meatballs, tomatillos, turkey
Servings: 6 to 8 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 6 guajillo chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 2 pounds tomatillos husked and rinsed
  • 3 garlic cloves peeled
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher or coarse sea salt divided, or to taste
  • 2 tablespoons canola or safflower oil
  • 1 1/4 cups finely chopped onion divided
  • 2 pounds ground turkey breast
  • 1/2 cup unseasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 sprigs of fresh epazote or cilantro sprigs, or substitute 4 dried leaves

Instructions

  • Heat a casserole over medium-high heat. Once hot, toast the guajillo chiles, turning often, until toasted deeply browned and you can smell the chile fumes, about 2 minutes. Add the tomatillos and garlic, cover with water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until the tomatillos are thoroughly cooked, their color has changed from a bright green to olive, and the guajillos have plumped up and rehydrated, about 12 minutes. Remove from the heat.
  • Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomatillos, garlic, chiles and 1/2 cup cooking liquid to a blender. Allow to cool slightly, add 1 teaspoon salt and puree until completely smooth. Drain the water from the casserole or soup pot, rinse and dry, and return to the stove.
  • Add the oil and heat over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 cup of the chopped onion and cook until tender and the edges have just begun to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the tomatillo puree, cover partially as the thick sauce will splash and splutter, and simmer for about 7 to 8 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and darkened.
  • Meanwhile combine the ground turkey with the breadcrumbs, egg, remaining 1/4 cup onion, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Mix together well.
  • When the tomatillo puree has cooked down stir in the broth, scraping the bottom and sides of the casserole to incorporate any sauce sticking to the bottom and sides of the pan.
  • Place the ground turkey mixture and a small bowl of water next to the casserole. Wet your hands, and start shaping the turkey into approximately 1 1/2-inch balls. Gently drop the balls into the sauce as you form them. When all the meatballs have been added to the sauce, add the sprigs of epazote or cilantro and simmer over medium heat, uncovered, for 35 minutes. Serve.

Notes

Albóndigas en Salsa de Chile Guajillo

Mexican Grilled Steak Salad

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Print Recipe
4.56 from 9 votes

Mexican Grilled Steak Salad

Mexican Grilled Steak Salad recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 4 "The Mezcal Trail"
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: carne, carrots, flank steak, pati's mexican table, Pickled Jalapeños, potatoes, Salpicon, vinaigrette
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the salad:

  • 2 to 3 pounds flank steak
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or more to taste
  • To taste freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 (about 1/2 pound) medium carrots peeled, halved lengthwise and sliced
  • 3 (about 1 pound) medium red potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 pound green beans ends trimmed, cut diagonally into thirds
  • 1 cup peas fresh or thawed from frozen
  • 6 radishes halved and cut into matchsticks
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves and upper part of stems chopped
  • 1 ripe avocado halved, pitted, meat scooped out and sliced
  • To taste pickled jalapeños
  • To taste chipotle chiles in adobo sauce

For the vinaigrette: (If you like salad juicy double the vinaigrette!)

  • 1/3 cup distilled white vinegar
  • 1/3 cup olive oil plus more to grill the meat
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 clove garlic finely minced or pressed
  • 2/3 cup red onion slivered

To serve:

  • 1 head romaine lettuce leaves rinsed and chopped
  • Warm corn tortillas for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Brush the flank steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the meat for 5 to 6 minutes per side for medium (about 145 degrees Fahrenheit on a meat thermometer). Let rest for 5-10 minutes, then thinly slice against the grain and set aside.
  • Bring salted water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Cook the carrots for about 3 to 4 minutes until tender, remove with a spider or slotted spoon and place in a bowl. Repeat with the potatoes and green beans, adding them to the same bowl with the carrots. Lastly, cook the peas for just one minute, then drain and place in the bowl with the other cooked vegetables.
  • In a bowl, whisk the vinegar with the oils, salt, pepper, sugar and garlic, until emulsified. Add the onion and let macerate for at least 15 minutes. You may cover and place in the fridge for up to a couple weeks. Shake before using. If you like your salad very juicy and dressed, double the vinaigrette!
  • Dress the lettuce with some of the vinaigrette and place on an extended platter. Pour some of the vinaigrette on to the cooked vegetables, incorporate the radishes and cilantro, mix well and place on lettuce. Place the sliced meat on top, add the avocado, dress with more of the vinaigrette. Add some of the pickled jalapeños and chipotles in adobo on the sides of the plate or to your liking. Serve with warm corn tortillas on the side.

Notes

Salpicón de Carne

Oaxacan Chicken with Oregano and Garlic

Posted on by Pati Jinich
oaxacan chicken with oregano and garlic
Print Recipe
4.08 from 13 votes

Oaxacan Chicken with Oregano and Garlic

Oaxacan Chicken with Oregano and Garlic recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 3 "A Queen in the Land of Gods"
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: chicken, garlic, oregano, pati's mexican table
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 30 garlic cloves
  • 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • To taste freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 3-pound chicken cut into 10 serving pieces breasts cut in half
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Using a food processor or molcajete, process or mash the garlic, oregano, olive oil, lime juice, salt and pepper until coarse and well mixed, yet not completely pureed.
  • Rub the garlic mixture all over chicken and place skin side down on a non-stick baking sheet. If you don’t cook right away, you may marinate the chicken up to 24 hours, covered in the refrigerator.
  • Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and reduce temperature to 375 degrees. Flip over the chicken pieces, pour the chicken broth on the bottom of the sheet, and return to the oven for 45 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a knife.

Notes

Pollo Oaxaqueño con Orégano y Ajo

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tamales

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pati Jinich sweet potato and black bean tamales
Print Recipe
3.88 from 8 votes

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tamales

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tamales recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 2 "History of Oaxaca Cuisine"
Cook Time1 hour 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: masa, mexican crema, pati's mexican table, sweet potato, Tamales
Servings: 12 to 16 tamales
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 2/3 cups corn masa flour or masa harina (such as Maseca)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 24 dried corn husks
  • 2 cups refried beans
  • 1 cup Mexican crema
  • 1 cup queso fresco crumbled

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Wrap the sweet potatoes in aluminum foil. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until completely cooked and soft. Remove from the oven. When cool enough to handle, cut open and scoop out the cooked pulp into a bowl. Set aside to cool.

To make the tamal masa:

  • Place the lard or vegetable shortening and 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a mixer, and beat over medium speed until very light, about 1 minute. Reduce speed to low, add baking powder and sugar, and take turns adding the corn masa flour and the broth. Raise speed back to medium and continue beating another 6 to 7 minutes, until the dough is homogeneous. In batches, add the cooled sweet potato pulp and continue beating for another 5 to 6 minutes, until the masa looks fluffed up.

To assemble the tamales:

  • Soak the dried corn husks in hot water for a couple minutes, or until they are pliable, and drain. Lay out a corn husk with the tapering end towards you. Spread about 1/3 cup masa into about a 2” to 3” square, the layer should be about 1/4” thick, leaving a border of at least 1/2” on the sides. Place about 2 teaspoons of refried beans in the middle of the masa square.
  • Pick up the two long sides of the corn husk and bring them together (you will see how the masa starts to swaddle the filling) and fold them to one side, rolling them in same direction around tamal. Fold up the empty section of the husk with the tapering end, from the bottom up. This will form a closed bottom and the top will be left open. Gently squeeze from the bottom to the top to even the filling out without pressing to hard. As you assemble all the tamales, place them as upright as you can in a container.

To prepare the tamalera or steamer:

  • Place water in the bottom pan of a steamer, so that water is under the steamer basket or rack, and bring it to a simmer. Line the steamer with one or two layers of soaked corn husks.

To cook the tamales:

  • When you have all tamales ready, place them as vertically as you can, into the prepared steamer with the open end on top. If there is space left in the steamer, tuck in some corn husks, so the tamales won’t dance around. Cover with more corn husks, and steam covered with a lid for 55 minutes to an hour. You know the tamales are ready when they come easily free from the husks. They will still be moist, and as they are released from the husks – you will see the moisture, like when you remove good moist muffins from their paper baking cups.
  • Finished tamales will stay warm for about 2 hours in the steamer. They can be made ahead several days before and stored in refrigerator, well wrapped. They can also be frozen for months. In either case, reheat in a steamer. For refrigerated tamales, it will take about 20 minutes and about 45 minutes for frozen tamales.
  • You can serve with a spoonful of Mexican crema and crumbled queso fresco on top.

Notes

Tamales de Camote con Frijol

Tasajo

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pati Jinich tesajo
Print Recipe
4.25 from 8 votes

Tasajo

Tasajo recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 1 "One Day in Oaxaca"
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time2 hours 40 minutes
Total Time2 hours 50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: beef, flank steak, meat, pati's mexican table, tasajo
Servings: 6 Servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds flank steak
  • 2 to 3 teaspoons kosher or coarse sea salt
  • Vegetable oil for cooking

Instructions

  • Cut the flank steak against the grain into slices of about 1/4-inch thick, or as thin as you can. One by one, place the slices between two sheets of parchment or wax paper. Use a meat pounder to pound them very thin, less than 1/8-inch, or until you start to see the bottom sheet of paper through the meat (but not so thin that it is completely breaking apart).
  • As you move along, place the pounded slices on a cooling rack set on top of a large sheet pan or chopping board. Once done, sprinkle 1 1/2 teaspoons salt on one side. Flip over and sprinkle with remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons salt.
  • Leave to air dry and cure for at least 3 hours and up to 8 hours. (Alternately, you can leave at room temperature for 2 hours and refrigerate for the remaining time.)
  • When ready, pre-heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, brush the meat with vegetable oil and cook in batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side. Rest under aluminum foil until ready to use.

Tasajo Torta with Smoky Guacamole

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pati Jinich tasajo torta with smoky guacamole
Print Recipe
4.25 from 4 votes

Tasajo Torta with Smoky Guacamole

Tasajo Torta with Smoky Guacamole recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 1 "One Day in Oaxaca"
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: beef, guacamole, meat, pati's mexican table, refried beans, Sandwich, steak, tasajo, Torta
Servings: 6 Tortas
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Slice the bread in half. Toast under the broiler, on the grill, or on a hot comal until warmed and slightly browned. Remove from heat.
  • Spread refried beans on each of the bottom half of each roll. On top of the refried beans, place the meat, shredded cheese, a tomato slice and a generous dollop of the guacamole. Top with the other toasted bread half and serve!

Notes

Torta de Tasajo con Guacamole Ahumado  

Bacon Cheese Dogs with Avocado Relish

Posted on by Pati Jinich

By now it is common knowledge that Mexico and Mexicans love to taco anything and everything. So much so that a few years ago, when the hashtag #TacoTuesday became a thing, I would laugh when people asked me if I was doing taco night on Tuesdays at home.

“We practically taco every night,” I’d respond. It is a fact: I always have a comal handy to warm corn tortillas just in case we get the urge to tuck anything into them. But what many people may not know is how much we love our hot dogs.

Ok, yes, hot dogs are originally yours, America. But we have found a way to make them our very own, too, and we’d love for you to add them to your repertoire, if you are so inclined.

Take it as a compliment. We love hot dogs so much that they have also become part of our street food. This isn’t something new. Not even from a decade ago. Hot dogs have existed in Mexico for at least a century. So right next to a taco stand, you are likely to run into a hot dog stand. I have told you the story of the Galán hot dog my sisters and I used to eat that drew me to tears last time we were filming in Mexico.

Yet, there are so many more ways to Mex up your hot dogs. At home, our latest favorite is one we call Bacon Cheese Dogs with Avocado Relish. It has a hot dog wrapped in bacon. It is then browned until super crisp. Then sliced in half, stuffed with queso Oaxaca, put back in the pan with all that flavorful bacon fat, cheese side down, until the cheese completely melts and the corners crisp up. That hot link sits on a layer of horseradish mayo in a toasted bun and is garnished with a quick avocado relish: diced tart tomatillos, soft buttery avocado, grassy cilantro and the irresistible bite of pickled jalapeños.

Plating Bacon Cheese Hot Dogs with Avocado Pickle

Print Recipe
4.50 from 6 votes

Bacon Cheese Dogs with Avocado Relish

Bacon Cheese Dogs with Avocado Relish recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 6, Episode 12 "Cheesy"
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, bacon, cheese, Hot Dog, Mexican, Oaxaca, Pickled Jalapeños, queso, relish
Servings: 2 hot dogs
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the avocado relish:

  • 1 large (about 3 ounces) tomatillo husked, rinsed, cut into small dice
  • 4 scallions white and light green parts thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves and upper parts of stems chopped
  • 3 pickled whole jalapeños chopped, plus 2 sliced for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon brine from pickled jalapeños
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 1 ripe avocado halved, pitted, cut into small dice
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish or more to taste

For the hot dogs:

  • 2 slices bacon
  • 2 hot dogs
  • 2 cups Oaxaca cheese shredded
  • 2 hot dog buns

Instructions

To make the avocado relish:

  • In a medium bowl, add the tomatillo, scallions, cilantro, chopped pickled jalapeños, pickled jalapeño brine, lime juice, olive oil, and salt. Mix well. Incorporate the avocado and toss gently with a spoon to combine. Set aside.
  • In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise with the prepared horseradish. Set aside.
  • On a cutting board, roll one slice of bacon around each sausage link. Place the tip of the hot dog over one end of the bacon slice, then roll the sausage around on the diagonal so that the bacon wraps around it and covers it entirely.

To make the hot dogs:

  • Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the bacon-wrapped hot dogs and cook, turning every couple minutes, until crisped and browned on all sides. Remove from the heat. When cool enough to handle, cut a slit lengthwise down the middle of each, without cutting completely through.
  • Raise heat to medium-high. Add two piles of about 1 cup shredded cheese onto the skillet and top each with a hotdog, slit-side down. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese has completely melted and browned creating a cheese crust.
  • Meanwhile, open the buns but try not to separate the tops from the bottoms. Lightly toast the buns in the toaster or griddle. Spread a generous tablespoon of the horseradish mayonnaise onto each bun.
  • When bacon cheese hot links are ready, using a spatula, flip onto the bun, cheese side up. Top with a generous amount of the avocado relish, garnish with the pickled jalapeño slices and serve.

Notes

Hot dogs con Tocino, Queso y Aderezo de Aguacate

Thanksgiving Turkey

Posted on by Pati Jinich

Right after we got married, we moved from Mexico City to Dallas, Texas. It was in the middle of the very hot summer, oh how I remember that.

I had always been a great eater… but not a great cook. The youngest of four daughters, I had always been labeled the intellectual one, while each one of my older sisters jumped into the cooking and lifestyle field in one way or another.

Back then, I was focusing all my efforts on finishing my political science thesis to become an academic. But not knowing anyone, with my husband traveling all the time, and sort of locking myself in the duplex we lived in to write most of the time, I became insanely nostalgic for my family and the foods that we ate back home. So I jumped in the kitchen, and started to chat with anyone and everyone who seemed open to share recipes with me, in an attempt to recreate the soups, the stews, the dishes, and the nurturing flavors that I knew would help me feel at home.

Then came October. Like a sudden rain fall, I started seeing luscious Thanksgiving menu images everywhere: in stores, at the mall, on TV, on glossy books and cooking magazines in grocery stores. “A festive turkey meal in October,” I wondered. In Mexico, turkey is eaten for Christmas! “Oh boy,” I thought, “here they really do plan ahead of time.”

I had never heard of Thanksgiving before. Yet intrigued by the photos and recipes I was seeing, I made a full Thanksgiving meal for my husband and I. That was the very first one. Since then, we have sat down for a Thanksgiving meal every single year. Fast forward 19 years, and by now, I can tell you that Thanksgiving has become my favorite American holiday.

It is not only because of the food, but because of how friends and family come together around the table. How everyone seems to contribute in what is almost a communal effort. How the holiday is so timeless, with classic dishes that need to remain classics. But there is also an open window for flavors and ingredients that can enrich the meal.

Now, so many years later, I get the meaning of Thanksgiving more than ever. Here is my humble offer for your table: a turkey recipe packed with the sazón of some of my favorite flavor combinations and the tastiest Chorizo, Apple and Cornbread Stuffing.

Oh, by the way, for Season 5 of Pati’s Mexican Table, we made a Thanksgiving episode. I really do hope you catch it! Here is a clip.

[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AkJm803ACM[/embedyt]

You can also find out when the episode is playing in your location, by entering your zip code here.

Bacalao Navideño

Posted on by Pati Jinich

Bacalao Navideno
Print Recipe
3.58 from 7 votes

Christmas Salted Cod

Christmas Salted Cod recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 13 “José Andrés Takes Over"
Prep Time2 days
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time2 days 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: almonds, Bacalao, chiles güeros, Christmas dishes, olives, pati's mexican table, potatoes, salted cod fish
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dried salted cod
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 white onion peeled, halved, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic finely chopped or pressed
  • 1 1/2 pounds ripe tomatoes chopped, or a 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 red bell peppers roasted, sweated, peeled and diced
  • 1 pound baby potatoes peeled, halved if larger than 1-inch
  • 2 teaspoons white distilled vinegar
  • 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley chopped
  • 1/3 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/4 cup manzanilla olives stuffed with pimientos thinly sliced
  • 8 to 10 pickled pepperoncini peppers or chiles güeros plus more for serving
  • French baguette to slice and toast

Instructions

  • 48 hours before you wish to make the dish, begin preparing your salt cod for cooking. Place in a bowl, cover with water and place in the refrigerator. The next day drain, rinse and cover with water again. Place it back in the refrigerator for 10 to 12 hours. Drain, rinse and cover with water again. Refrigerate for another 10 to 12 hours, drain and rinse. Shred the fish and it is ready to use.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large casserole over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring often, until softened and beginning to brown around the edges. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about a minute. Stir in the tomatoes and roasted red bell peppers, cover partially and cook, stirring from time to time, for 10 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and darkened in color. It should look somewhat chunky.
  • Meanwhile, in a separate, medium saucepan, boil the potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes, until just tender; when you insert the tip of a knife it should go all the way in, but the potatoes should not fall apart. Drain and set aside.
  • Stir the shredded cod into the tomato mixture. Add the vinegar, parsley, almonds and olives, stir together and continue to cook, partially covered for another 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pan, until the ingredients are well amalgamated and the sauce has thickened even more.
  • Reduce heat to low, stir in the cooked potatoes and the pickled pepperoncini peppers, cover the casserole and simmer for 5 more minutes. The mixture should be very moist and juicy, but not soupy. No need to add salt. Serve with additional pickled pepperoncini, and if you’d like, white rice on the side.

Notes

Bacalao Navideño

Snapper Ceviche “Veracruz”

Posted on by Pati Jinich

ceviche veracruz
Print Recipe
4.84 from 6 votes

Snapper Ceviche "Veracruz"

Snapper Ceviche "Veracruz" recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 13 “José Andrés Takes Over"
Prep Time1 hour
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: capers, Ceviche, fish, jalapeno, José Andrés, olives, pati's mexican table, pickled red onions, red snapper, serrano chiles
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 cup kosher salt divided, plus more for seasoning
  • 3/4 pound red snapper filet
  • 4 white pearl onions peeled into petals
  • 2 Roma or plum tomatoes
  • 2/3 cup Spanish manzanilla olives
  • 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 3 large limes)

To garnish:

  • 4 Spanish manzanilla olives sliced into very thin round slivers
  • 28 Pickled Red Onion Slices
  • 28 fresh capers
  • 1 jalapeño or serrano chile sliced very thinly (optional)
  • 20 cilantro leaves
  • 12 nasturtium leaves
  • 12 sorrel leaves
  • 12 watercress leaves
  • Pinch edible flowers such as nasturtium blossom, mustard blossom, marigold petals
  • Pinch ground chile piquín
  • Extra-virgin olive oil and Maldon sea salt to finish

Instructions

  • Cover the bottom of a small rectangular pan with half of the salt. Place fish on top of the salt layer and cover with the remaining salt. Cover pan with plastic wrap and place in refrigerator for one hour.
  • To a pot of heavily salted boiling water, add the onion petals and cook for 20 seconds. Using a wire skimmer or spider, remove the onions, season with salt and submerge them in a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process and set aside for garnish.
  • Using a sharp knife, slice off the top and bottom of each plum tomato. Locate the fleshy dividing wall of one segment inside the tomato. Slice alongside the dividing wall and open up the flesh of the tomato to expose the seeds. Remove the seeds and their pulp by slicing around the core of the tomato. Keep the seeds and their surrounding gel intact to create tomato seed “hearts” and set the "hearts" aside for garnish. Roughly chop the remaining outer tomato flesh.
  • Drain the 2/3 cup olives and remove pits. Add the chopped outer tomato flesh, the pitted olives, and lime juice to a blender and puree until smooth. Pass the mixture through a fine mesh strainer, then set aside.
  • Remove the fish from the refrigerator and rinse away the excess salt with water. Pat the fish dry with a paper towel. Holding a sharp knife at a 45-degree angle, cut the fish into thin slices.
  • Spoon the olive tomato puree onto serving dishes. With tongs, place snapper slices on top of the dressing. Add olive slivers, pickled onion slices, onion petals, capers, tomato hearts, and (if desired) jalapeño slices. Drizzle on more puree, then garnish with cilantro, nasturtium, sorrel, watercress, and edible blossoms. Finish with ground chile piquín, olive oil, and sea salt. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ceviche "Veracruz", recipe courtesy of José Andrés

Fried Egg Taco with Pine Nut Pipián

Posted on by Pati Jinich

fried egg taco
Print Recipe
4.75 from 4 votes

Fried Egg Taco with Pine Nut Pipián

Fried Egg Taco with Pine Nut Pipián recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 13 “José Andrés Takes Over”
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Chorizo, fried egg, pickled red onions, Pine Nut Pipián, radish, tacos
Servings: 4 tacos
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Prepare the chorizo: With a knife cut the chorizo link on one side, allowing it to split open. Squeeze the meat from the casing. In a pot over medium heat, gently cook the chorizo for 4 to 5 minutes, until cooked through and lightly browned. Set aside.
  • Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a generous amount of olive oil. Once the pan is hot, gently crack open the egg into the middle of the oil, tilting the pan to allow the yolk to be centered. Cook on medium heat, using a slotted spoon to prevent egg from sticking to the pan. Cover if needed to allow the white to cook through, leaving the yolk runny, about 1 1/2 minutes. Using the slotted spoon, scoop egg out of the frying oil, dab on a towel to allow any excess oil to drain away, and place the fried egg on a plate. Repeat cooking process for each of the four eggs.
  • Cut off a 4-inch piece from the baguette. Slice off the crust and then slice the inner bread into 1/2-inch strips. Toast in a pan with oil.
  • Top each egg taco with slice of toasted bread, radish, cilantro, Pickled Red Onion Slices, Pine Nut Pipián, and chorizo. Serve immediately.

Notes

Tacos de Huevo con Pipián de Piñón, recipe courtesy of José Andrés

Dry Rub Skirt Steak

Posted on by Pati Jinich

Dry Rub Skirt Steak
Print Recipe
4.41 from 10 votes

Dry Rub Skirt Steak

Dry Rub Skirt Steak recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 12 “Alan Goes to College”
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: adobo, cumin, dry rub, oregano, paprika, pati's mexican table, skirt steak, steak
Servings: 2 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 7- to 8-ounce skirt steaks about 1/2-inch thick, at room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, mix all the spices with salt and pepper.
  • Pat the steaks dry and apply the spice rub on both sides. Let steaks sit for a few minutes or up to 2 hours (if more than a half an hour place in the refrigerator).
  • Heat a skillet over high heat. Add the butter and as soon as it melts, add the steaks. Sear for about 4 minutes on one side, and between 2 to 3 minutes on the second side (for medium). Adjust timing to your liking.
  • Let it rest for 3 to 4 minutes before serving.

Notes

Falda de Res Asada

Thanksgiving Turkey

Posted on by Pati Jinich

Achiote Adobo Thanksgiving Turkey
Print Recipe
4.17 from 6 votes

Thanksgiving Turkey

Thanksgiving Turkey recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 11 “Turkey Day”
Prep Time12 hours
Cook Time5 hours
Total Time17 hours
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: achiote paste, allspice, banana leaves, bitter orange juice, cumin, oregano, pati's mexican table, Thanksgiving, turkey
Servings: 10 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the marinade:

  • 6 tablespoons achiote paste from a bar
  • 6 cups bitter orange juice or its substitute
  • 6 cups homemade chicken broth or store bought
  • 12 cloves garlic charred, broiled or toasted with the skin on, and then peeled
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 2 teaspoons kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

For the turkey:

  • 1 16- to 18-pound turkey rinsed and patted dry
  • 4 whole red onions peeled and sliced
  • 8 ripe tomatoes roughly chopped
  • 2 to 3 banana leaves (optional)
  • 1 brining bag large enough for a turkey (or an extra-large plastic bag)
  • Chorizo, Apple and Corn Bread Stuffing

Instructions

To make the marinade:

  • In a blender or food processor, working in 2 batches, add the achiote paste, bitter orange juice or its substitute, chicken broth, garlic, oregano, cumin, allspice, salt, and pepper and puree until smooth.
  • Slide the turkey, with the breast side down, into the brining bag. Pour the marinade into the bag and massage it into the bird, working it into the cavity and all the crevasses. Place the bag in a mixing bowl or roasting pan and refrigerate for 12 to 48 hours, turning the turkey a couple of times to redistribute the marinade.

To make the turkey:

  • Set the oven rack at the lowest position and preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Spread the onions and tomatoes in a large roasting pan. Sit the turkey on the vegetables breast side up. Stuff the main cavity with as much stuffing as it can hold and place the rest in a buttered baking dish. Close the cavity by crossing and tying the legs with butcher’s twine. Tuck the wing tips under the turkey. Pour as much of the remaining marinade over the turkey as will fit halfway up the pan.
  • Roast the turkey for 30 minutes. Cover the turkey with layers of banana leaves, if you are using them, and then cover the entire pan with aluminum foil, sealing it as best as you can. The less steam that is able to escape the better.
  • Reduce the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place turkey back in the oven and roast for 3 1/2 hours, or for at least 12 minutes per pound. Remove from the oven and carefully remove the leaves and/or the foil, being careful as the steam is hot. Return to the oven and roast for 20 more minutes. The turkey should be completely cooked through and nearly falling off the bone.
  • Remove turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes, loosely covered with the aluminum foil.
  • Strain all the cooked vegetables and juice into a medium 3-quart saucepan, pressing with the back of the spoon to get as much liquid as possible. Set aside 1 cup for the stuffing. Simmer the remaining sauce for 15 to 20 minutes, until it has reduced by half.
  • While the turkey rests, pour the reserved marinade over the stuffing in the baking dish and place it in the oven for 20 minutes, or until it is hot and the top is crisped.
  • Carve the turkey and serve with the stuffing.

Notes

Pavo de Acción de Gracias

Shrimp Rolls with Pepita and Cilantro Pesto

Posted on by Pati Jinich

shrimp rolls with pepita and cilantro pesto recipe
Print Recipe
4.15 from 7 votes

Shrimp Rolls with Pepita and Cilantro Pesto

Shrimp Rolls with Pepita and Cilantro Pesto recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 10 “Cancún: We Meet Again”
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, cilantro, grill recipes, grilling, pati's mexican table, Shrimp
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil plus more for brushing buns
  • 1 small clove garlic finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro finely chopped
  • Pinch kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 1 pound shrimp cleaned, deveined, tails removed
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 4 potato hot dog buns
  • 1 ripe avocado peeled and sliced
  • Pepita and Cilantro Pesto as desired
  • Serrano Chile in Lime and Oil as desired

Instructions

  • Preheat the grill to medium high.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add olive oil, garlic, cilantro and a pinch of salt. Mix together and add the shrimp. Toss to coat well and keep refrigerated until ready to grill.
  • Place the shrimp on the grill. You can skewer them so they’re easier to flip. Cook until they’re opaque in color, a few minutes per side. Remove from grill and let cool.
  • In a bowl, toss the grilled shrimp with the mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Brush the insides of the hot dog buns with olive oil and place open faced onto the grill to lightly toast.
  • To the toasted buns, add a few slices of avocado and a good amount of the grilled shrimp with mayonnaise. Top with a drizzle of pepita pesto and a few – or many (depending on how spicy you like it) - drops of serrano chile oil.

Notes

Rollos de Camarón con Pesto de Pepita y Cilantro, recipe courtesy of Alisa Romano

Achiote Rubbed Fish

Posted on by Pati Jinich

Tikin Xic or Achiote Rubbed Fish recipe
Print Recipe
4.63 from 8 votes

Achiote Rubbed Fish

Achiote Rubbed Fish recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 9 “Isla Mujeres Inspired”
Prep Time1 hour
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: achiote paste, allspice, bitter orange juice, bronzino, corn tortillas, fish, guajillo chiles, pati's mexican table, red snapper, sea bass, snook
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 6 red snapper, snook, sea bass, or bronzino fillets deboned (about 6 ounces each)
  • 2 dried guajillo chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
  • 4 ounces (or 6 tablespoons) achiote paste
  • 9 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup white onion coarsely chopped
  • 5 whole cloves hard stems removed
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt divided
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Warm corn tortillas optional

Instructions

  • Place the fish in a large baking dish.
  • Toast the guajillo chiles on a pre-heated comal or skillet, set over medium heat, for about 30 seconds per side. Place the toasted chiles in a saucepan, cover with water, and set over medium-high heat. Simmer until chiles rehydrate, soften and plump up, about 10 to 12 minutes.
  • In the jar of a blender, add rehydrated guajillos, plus a couple tablespoons from their simmering liquid, as well as the orange juice, lime juice, vinegar, achiote paste, garlic, onion, cloves, allspice, pepper and salt. Purée until completely smooth.
  • Pour the marinade over the fish, making sure the fish is completely covered in the marinade on both sides. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator anywhere from 30 minutes to 12 hours.
  • When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator at least 15 minutes ahead of time to bring to room temperature. Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Butter a large baking dish and place the marinated fish, skin side down. Reserve the remaining marinade.
  • Bake the fish anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish, until it flakes the fish with a fork. It should be moist and look opaque, but don't let it get dry and overdone.
  • While the fish cooks, place a saucepan over medium heat and heat the oil. Once it is hot, pour in the marinade; it will splatter so you may want to use a lid as a shield. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, partially covered, stirring often, until the marinade has thickened to a light puree or thick sauce consistency. Serve in a small bowl with a spoon, for your guests to add more sauce to the fish as they eat it, or to spoon over the tacos if making.

Notes

Tikin Xic

Tomato and Onion Pork Loins

Posted on by Pati Jinich

lomitos de valladolid
Print Recipe
4.72 from 7 votes

Tomato and Onion Pork Loins

Tomato and Onion Pork Loins recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 8  “Valladolid: A Day to Explore”
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, black beans, corn tortillas, onion, pati's mexican table, pork, Tomatoes
Servings: 5 to 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
  • 2 pounds pork tenderloin cut into 1/2" chunks, remaining fat left on
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup white onion chopped
  • 2 1/2 pounds very ripe tomatoes cored and diced, don't discard juices or seeds

To Serve:

Instructions

  • Heat the lard or vegetable oil in a large casserole set over medium-high heat. Add the pork pieces, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and let the meat cook for a minute or two. Add the onion, stir and let cook for a minute or two. Incorporate the diced tomatoes, mix well, cover and reduce heat to medium low.
  • Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is completely cooked through and the tomatoes have cooked down into a mushy paste, about an hour to an hour and 10 minutes. Remove the lid, taste for salt and add more if need be, stir, and continue cooking until there is almost no moisture in the casserole.
  • To serve, place two toasted corn tortillas on a plate, spoon refried black beans on top and ladle the meat on top of the beans. Place a couple avocado slices on the side.

Notes

Lomitos de Valladolid

Yucatecan Grilled Pork

Posted on by Pati Jinich

yucatecan grilled pork or pok chuk recipe
Print Recipe
4.75 from 4 votes

Yucatecan Grilled Pork

Yucatecan Grilled Pork recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 7 “Izamal: Gold & God”
Prep Time2 hours 10 minutes
Cook Time6 minutes
Total Time2 hours 16 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: bitter orange juice, black beans, chiltomate, corn tortillas, garlic, pati's mexican table, pork
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

To Serve:

Instructions

  • In a blender, combine bitter orange juice, garlic, salt and pepper, and puree until smooth. Place pork in a dish and pour marinade over. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
  • Heat a grill to high. Drain pork from marinade and grill until cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Serve with a side of Chiltomate, red onion salsa, a wedge of bitter orange or lime, tortillas and black bean puree.

Notes

Pok Chuc, recipe courtesy of Kinich Restaurant

Yucatecan Style Lasagna

Posted on by Pati Jinich

yucatecan style lasagna recipe
Print Recipe
5 from 7 votes

Yucatecan Style Lasagna

Yucatecan Style Lasagna recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 7 “Izamal: Gold & God”
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: achiote paste, beer, Chorizo, edam cheese, ground beef, Lasagna, orange juice, pasta, pati's mexican table, ricotta, Yucatán Peninsula
Servings: 8 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 pound Mexican chorizo casings removed, coarsely chopped
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 large red onion finely chopped
  • 5 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 4 tablespoons achiote paste
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 4 cups homemade chicken broth or store bought, divided
  • 1 cup light beer
  • 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 pound lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 3 cups Edam cheese grated

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a casserole over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and beef and cook for 6 to 7 minutes until it starts to brown. Make room in the middle, add onion, garlic and bell pepper, and cook for 9 to 10 minutes until vegetables have completely softened, juices have all been absorbed, and meat has browned further.
  • Meanwhile, in a blender, puree orange juice, lime juice, achiote paste, tomato paste, oregano, salt and a cup of the chicken broth, until completely smooth.
  • Pour beer into the casserole with the meat and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until it starts cooking off. Reduce heat to medium and pour in the achiote paste mixture. Stir and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until sauce is very thick. Add crushed tomatoes and the rest of the chicken broth, mix very well, reduce heat to lowest possible setting and cover. Cook for 20 minutes, uncover, raise heat to medium heat and cook for 10 more minutes, then turn off heat.
  • Place rack in the middle of the oven. Preheat to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Cook 1 pound of lasagna noodles in salted water with a splash of olive oil until al dente. Drain.
  • Coat the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish with about one cup of meat sauce. Drape pasta sheets, covering bottom of the pan entirely. Cover with about 1/3 of the remaining sauce, then add 1/3 of the ricotta cheese in dollops all spread out. Cover with more draped pasta, repeat with 1/3 of the sauce and 1/3 of the ricotta cheese. Repeat one more time and add the Edam cheese on top.
  • Lightly cover the pan with aluminum foil and place in the oven for 40 minutes. Remove foil and leave in the oven for another 20 minutes, until cheese is completely melted, crisp and browned and lasagna is completely set.

Notes

Lasaña Yucateca

Coconut Shrimp

Posted on by Pati Jinich

Coconut Shrimp
Print Recipe
4.34 from 6 votes

Coconut Shrimp

Coconut Shrimp recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 5 “Campeche: Tale of a Pirate City”
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: coconut, corn flakes, fried food, pati's mexican table, Shrimp
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
  • 1 cup corn flake crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt divided
  • Freshly ground pepper to taste
  • 4 large eggs well beaten
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 2 pounds extra large shrimp tails on
  • Serve with Mango Habanero Hot Sauce

Instructions

  • On a large plate, combine unsweetened and sweetened coconut flakes with the corn flake crumbs and ½ teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.
  • Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl and beat them well with a whisk or fork along with the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Set aside.
  • Pour the all-purpose flour onto another large plate and set aside.
  • Add enough oil to a large frying pan or casserole to get about 3/4-inch height. Set over medium heat.
  • One by one, dredge the shrimp in the flour so they are completely covered and shake off the excess. Then, dip them completely in the beaten egg mixture. Immediately coat them with the coconut mix, but do so gently so the coconut won’t fall off: place each egg coated shrimp on the plate and with your hands add some of the coconut mix on top, pressing lightly so they are completely covered. Don’t shake them off at this point. Set them aside on a plate or board.
  • Once you are done coating the shrimp, check your oil. If you have a thermometer, it should be around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. You may raise the temperature to medium-high if it isn’t still there. Another way to test is to dip in the tip of a shrimp, the oil should actively and happily bubble all around it.
  • Fry the shrimp in batches, without overcrowding the pan, until they are cooked through, crisp and golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Flip them using rubber tip tongs from the tail, so you don’t break the beautiful coconut coating. Don’t over cook them either! Place them on a drying rack or platter covered with paper towel, and serve.

Notes

Camarones al Coco

To-Die-For Ceviche

Posted on by Pati Jinich

To Die For Ceviche
Print Recipe
4.67 from 6 votes

To-Die-For Ceviche

To-Die-For Ceviche recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 5 “Campeche: Tale of a Pirate City”
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, cacao nibs, Ceviche, flounder, grouper, jalapeno, mango, pati's mexican table, red snapper, rock fish, tomatillos, trout
Servings: 2 to 4 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 jalapeño chiles stemmed and coarsely chopped, seeding optional
  • 1/2 cup celery sliced
  • 1/2 cup red onion halved and thinly sliced, divided
  • 1/2 cup cilantro leaves and upper stems chopped, divided
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 1 pound red snapper filet cut into about 1/2-inch dice (may substitute another mild flavored fish like grouper, trout, flounder, sole or rock fish)
  • 1 cup (about 1 large) ripe mango diced
  • 1 cup (about 1 large) ripe avocado diced
  • 1/3 cup (about 2) tomatillos husked, scrubbed, and diced
  • 2 tablespoons cacao nibs optional
  • Tortilla chips or tostadas

Instructions

  • Combine the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, jalapeños, celery, 1/4 cup of the red onion, 1/4 cup of the cilantro, and the salt in a blender and puree until completely smooth.
  • Place the fish in a bowl, add the pureed mixture, and toss well. Cover and let marinate for 20 to 25 minutes outside the refrigerator before serving, stirring from time to time. If marinating for more than 25 minutes, cover and refrigerate.
  • When ready to serve, add the rest of the onion and cilantro, the mango, avocado, tomatillo, and cacao nibs if using. Toss well, taste for salt and add more as needed. Serve with tortilla chips (totopos) or tostadas.

Notes

Ceviche Que Te Mueres

Fish in Green Sauce

Posted on by Pati Jinich

fish in green sauce recipe
Print Recipe
4.50 from 6 votes

Fish in Green Sauce

Fish in Green Sauce recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 5 “Campeche: Tale of a Pirate City”
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: bitter orange juice, cilantro, fish, fish broth, green sauce, pati's mexican table, snook
Servings: 2 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the Fish:

  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 8-ounce snook filets skins removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

Instructions

  • In a blender, puree cilantro, water, lime juice, garlic, salt and pepper until smooth. Place fish on a rimmed plate and pour marinade over, turning to coat. Let sit 5 minutes.
  • To prepare the sauce, in a blender, puree olive oil, bitter orange juice, cilantro, parsley, chives, salt and a pinch of pepper until smooth. Pour into a small saucepan and place over medium-high heat. When sauce starts to boil, add broth and season to taste with salt and pepper.
  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Sear fish filets until golden and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to plates and spoon over warm green sauce to serve.

Notes

Pescado en Salsa Verde, recipe courtesy of La Pigua

Pork Tenderloin Enchiladas with Mole Verde

Posted on by Pati Jinich

pork tenderloin enchiladas
Print Recipe
4.88 from 8 votes

Pork Tenderloin Enchiladas with Mole Verde

Pork Tenderloin Enchiladas with Mole Verde recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 4 “Sunday Family Food”
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: corn tortillas, Enchilada, jalapeno, mole verde, pati's mexican table, pepitas, pork, pumpkin seeds, serrano chiles, tomatillos
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the Pork Tenderloin:

  • 2 pounds pork tenderloin either 1 large or 2 smaller tenderloins
  • 5 garlic cloves minced or pressed
  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage or 1 tablespoon dried
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 tablespoons olive oil divided

For the Mole Verde:

  • 1 pound tomatillos husked, scrubbed and rinsed
  • 2 garlic cloves peeled
  • 2 serrano or jalapeño chiles or to taste
  • 3/4 cup raw hulled pumpkin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped white onion
  • 3 romaine lettuce leaves rinsed, dried and torn into pieces
  • 1 1/2 cups cilantro leaves and upper part of stems
  • 1 cup parsley leaves and upper part of stems
  • 2 tablespoons canola or safflower oil
  • 1 1/2 cups meat juices from cooked tenderloin or substitute chicken broth or water

To Assemble and Serve:

Instructions

To prepare the tenderloin:

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Using a sharp knife, make an approximately 1/4-inch deep slit down the length of the tenderloin(s), from one end to the other.
  • In a small bowl, mix the garlic with the sage, salt, pepper and 4 tablespoons of the olive oil. And spread this seasoning paste all over the meat, including inside of the slit.
  • Tie the meat with kitchen twine, or if you have two smaller pork tenderloin pieces, tie them together one on top of the other. To tie, cut a long string of kitchen twine and wrap it around the meat at one end, about 1-inch from the end. Tie a knot leaving two long ends, and with the remaining string, criss-cross over and around the meat down the length of the meat. Wrap around one more time at the other end and tie another knot. (Though no marinating time is necessary, you may cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours in advance.)
  • Heat a large, ovenproof casserole or a deep, 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the tenderloin and brown on all sides, about 6 minutes total.
  • If you used a skillet to brown the meat, transfer it to an ovenproof casserole or baking dish. Add 3 cups of water and place in the oven. Roast for 30 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the internal temperature reads 150 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove from the oven.
  • When cool enough to handle, place the meat on a chopping board and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm. Pour the meat juices into a measuring cup and set aside.

To make the mole verde:

  • Place the tomatillos, garlic and chiles in a medium saucepan, cover with water and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, until the ingredients are completely cooked through and soft, and the color of the tomatillos has changed from light or bright green to olive.
  • Meanwhile, heat a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the pumpkin seeds and toast, stirring often, until you hear popping sounds, like popcorn, and they begin to brown lightly, about 3 to 4 minutes. Take care not to burn them. Immediately transfer to a bowl or plate and set aside.
  • Drain the tomatillos, garlic and chiles and place in a blender (add only one chile at first). Add the salt and puree until smooth. Then add the toasted pumpkin seeds, onion, lettuce, cilantro and parsley to the blender and puree until completely smooth. Taste and blend in the second chile if desired.
  • Heat the canola or safflower oil in a casserole or heavy soup pot over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the puree and stir well, being careful as this sauce really likes to jump around; use your lid as a shield. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the meat juices (or broth or water) and bring to a simmer, cover partially and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir every 4 to 5 minutes, to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom.
  • If the sauce appears to be cooking too fast and sticking, reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer until very thick. It should coat the back of a wooden spoon heavily. Taste and adjust salt. Turn off heat and keep covered.

To assemble the enchiladas:

  • Slice and dice, or coarsely chop, the cooked pork tenderloin. If the meat is cold, you may place it back in the casserole after you dice it with any remaining meat juices and heat through over low heat.
  • Prepare the tortillas for the enchiladas, either heating them on an already heated comal or skillet set over medium heat, or “passing" them through hot oil.
  • If necessary, reheat the mole verde. One by one, dip a tortilla into the mole verde and place on a plate or chopping board. Place about 1/4 cup of diced meat in the middle and roll into a chubby enchilada. Then place it seam side down on a serving platter. Continue with the rest of the tortillas. Pour the remaining mole verde on top. Garnish with the radish pico and serve.

Notes

Enchiladas de Lomito de Cerdo con Mole Verde

Banana Leaf Wrapped Whole Fish

Posted on by Pati Jinich

banana leaf wrapped whole fish
Print Recipe
4.50 from 8 votes

Banana Leaf Wrapped Whole Fish

Banana Leaf Wrapped Whole Fish recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 3 “Celestún: Coastal Cooking”
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: banana leaves, bitter orange juice, cilantro, epazote, grill recipes, grilling, mint, red snapper, snook
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 cup cilantro leaves
  • 1/4 cup bitter orange juice or its substitute
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons kosher or coarse salt plus more to season the fish
  • 6 Banana leaves stems removed
  • 1 whole 3-pound fish, red snapper or snook, scaled and gutted
  • Ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup dried oregano leaves
  • 2 cups packed fresh mint leaves
  • 1 cup fresh epazote leaves

Instructions

  • Preheat a grill or grill pan on medium-high heat.
  • To make the "mojo," place the garlic, cilantro leaves, bitter orange juice, olive oil and salt in a molcajete and mash into a paste. Alternatively, you may add these ingredients to a food processor or blender and process until fully combined but still chunky.
  • To make a wrap for the fish, arrange the banana leaves overlapping on a work surface. Season the fish all over with salt and pepper, and place in the center of the leaves. Pour the "mojo" over both sides of the fish, then top with the oregano, mint and epazote. Fold the banana leaves over fish to cover and tie or tuck leaves around fish to enclose.
  • Place the fish on the grill and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, then turn and continue to cook for another 15 to 20 minutes until the fish is cooked through. To serve, unfold leaves and filet the fish.

Notes

Pescado Envuelto en Hoja de Plátano, recipe courtesy of Pedro Evia

Everything But The Kitchen Sink Rice

Posted on by Pati Jinich

everything but the kitchen sink seafood rice stew
Print Recipe
4.86 from 7 votes

Everything But The Kitchen Sink Rice

Everything But The Kitchen Sink Rice recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 3 “Celestún: Coastal Cooking”
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: clams, epazote, garlic, grouper, jalapeno, mussels, pati's mexican table, red snapper, rice, rock fish, seafood, seafood broth, serrano chiles, Shrimp, squid, Tomatoes
Servings: 6 to 8 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 whole (about 3 pounds) white-fleshed, mild-flavored fish, such as red snapper, grouper, or rock fish, boned and filleted OR 1 pound fish fillets
  • 1 1/2 pounds ripe tomatoes
  • 2 jalapeño or serrano chiles or to taste
  • 8 garlic cloves, 5 finely chopped, 3 peeled and left whole
  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped white onion
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons kosher or coarse salt or to taste, divided
  • 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound cleaned squid rinsed and sliced into 1/4" rings
  • 1 pound medium shrimp peeled, shells and tails reserved if making broth
  • 2 cups white rice or jasmine white rice
  • 5 cups seafood or fish broth homemade or store bought
  • 1 large fresh epazote sprig or 3 cilantro sprigs
  • 12 small to medium fresh clams scrubbed and rinsed
  • 12 small to medium fresh mussels scrubbed and rinsed

Instructions

  • NOTE: If you plan on making the seafood or fish broth, get the whole fish and ask your fish monger to clean it for you and to give you the head, bones and tail to use for the broth. Also, save the shrimp shells and tails to use in the broth, as well.
  • Cut the fish fillets so that you have 6 more or less equally sized pieces. Season with ¼ teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.
  • Place the tomatoes, jalapeños, and the 3 whole garlic cloves in a medium saucepan, cover with water and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Simmer until the tomatoes are fully cooked and very soft, about 10 minutes. Transfer the tomatoes, garlic cloves, and only 1 of the jalapeños (puree one chile at a time, taste for heat, and add the other if desired) to a blender, and add the onion and 1 teaspoon of the salt. Puree until completely smooth.
  • Rinse and dry the saucepan and heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in it over medium heat. Once hot, add the tomato puree and cover the pan partially with a lid, as the puree will sputter and jump. Cook, stirring occasionally, until thick, dark and fragrant, about 6 to 7 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.
  • In a large, wide casserole, heat 1/4 cup of the olive oil over high heat. Once hot, toss in the squid, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, add half of the finely chopped garlic, and cook for 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Remove the squid and the garlic with a slotted spoon and place in a heatproof bowl.
  • Add the shrimp to the casserole, along with another 1/2 teaspoon of salt and half of the remaining chopped garlic, and cook for 2 minutes, stirring and flipping the shrimp over halfway through. Remove with a slotted spoon and place in the bowl with the squid.
  • Reduce the heat to medium and add 1/4 cup of the remaining olive oil to the casserole. Once hot, add the rice and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often and scraping the bottom of the casserole, until the rice is crackling and coated with oil, feels heavier in the pan as you stir it, and the color of the grains has changed from a pale white to a deep milky white.
  • Pour the cooked-down tomato puree over the rice; it will sizzle and smoke a bit, which is what you want. Cover partially with a lid and cook, stirring a couple of times, until the rice absorbs most of the sauce, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the seafood broth and stir the rice, scraping the bottom of the casserole. Add the epazote or cilantro sprigs and reduce the heat to medium-low. Gently arrange the reserved shrimp and squid on top of the rice, adding any of their juices from the bowl, as well as the clams, mussels and seasoned fish fillets.
  • Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 10 to 12 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and can be easily pulled apart with a fork, and the clams and mussels have opened up. Turn off the heat and serve immediately in soup plates. The rice should be tender and the mixture very soupy.

Notes

Arroz con Mariscos

Pork and Beans

Posted on by Pati Jinich

pork and beans
Print Recipe
4.58 from 7 votes

Pork and Beans

Pork and Beans recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 2 “Mérida: Exploring with the Locals”
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time2 hours 25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, black beans, chiltomate, corn tortillas, epazote, habanero, lime, pati's mexican table, pork, radish, Yucatán Peninsula
Servings: 8 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds black beans rinsed and drained
  • 4 pounds pork shoulder, butt, or country-style ribs (or a combination) cut into 2" chunks
  • 1 white onion outer peel removed and cut in half crosswise without cutting ends off
  • 4 fresh epazote sprigs or 15 cilantro sprigs, tied with kitchen twine
  • 1 tablespoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 8 to 10 radishes julienned or cut into thin strips
  • 1 cup coarsely chopped cilantro leaves and upper stems
  • 1 ripe avocado halved, pitted, meat scooped out and diced
  • 4 limes quartered
  • Yucatecan tomato sauce or Chiltomate to taste, optional
  • Habanero chiles to taste, either "dipped" or finely chopped optional
  • Warm corn tortillas

Instructions

  • Add 6 liters of water and the rinsed beans to a large casserole or Dutch oven. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook at a steady rolling simmer, with the lid slightly ajar, for 45 minutes.
  • Incorporate the pork chunks, halved white onion, epazote or cilantro sprigs, and salt and stir. Continue simmering for another hour and a half, partially covered, until the pork is completely cooked and tender, making sure the broth does not dry out – I add another 4 cups of boiling water after I add the pork. Turn off the heat. Taste for salt and add more if need be.
  • Serve with garnishes of julienned radishes, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, lime quarters, Chiltomate, and habaneros (they can just be cut and dipped into individual bowls to add a bit of heat, called "chuk" or "remojar"). Each person can “puuch” or mash and mix the garnishes of their choice in their bowl. It is customary to serve along with warm corn tortillas.

Notes

Frijol con Puerco

Pan de Cazón

Posted on by Pati Jinich

Pan De Cason
Print Recipe
4.41 from 5 votes

Pan de Cazón

Pan de Cazón recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 5, Episode 1 “Chachi’s Champotón Kitchen”
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: bitter orange juice, black beans, cazon, Cod, corn tortillas, dogfish, epazote, habanero, mahi mahi, pati's mexican table, swordfish, Yucatán Peninsula
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds cazon or dogfish fillets cut into 2-inch pieces (may substitute cod, swordfish or mahi mahi)
  • 3 sprigs fresh epazote
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 6 tablespoons lard divided, may substitute vegetable oil
  • 2 whole white onions 1 chopped and 1 havled and sliced thin
  • 1 cup fresh epazote leaves roughly chopped, plus another 1/4 cup for tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons bitter orange juice or its substitute
  • 8 large tomatoes chopped
  • 16 corn tortillas warmed
  • 2 cups black bean puree warmed
  • 4 habanero chiles roasted or charred
  • 1 ripe avocado pitted and sliced

Instructions

  • To prepare the cazon filling, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the fish, epazote sprigs and salt. Simmer on low until the fish is cooked through, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain the fish and set aside to cool slightly, then remove the skin and shred. Set aside.
  • Heat 3 tablespoons of the lard in a large sauté pan and cook the chopped onion and chopped epazote leaves until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the shredded fish and the remaining 3 tablespoons of lard, and cover and cook until warmed through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the bitter orange juice.
  • Meanwhile, prepare the tomato sauce. In a blender, puree 2 cups of the chopped tomatoes. Transfer the puree to a medium pot set over medium-high heat and add the remaining chopped tomatoes, 3 tablespoons of lard, thinly sliced onion, 1/4 cup chopped epazote leaves and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until the onions and tomatoes are soft, about 15-20 minutes.
  • To assemble, dip a tortilla into the black bean puree and coat lightly on both sides. Place in the center of a plate. Top with about 2 tablespoons of the cazon filling, then repeat the process of dipping a tortilla and topping with the cazon filling two more times for a total of 3 layers. ingredients.
  • Coat a fourth tortilla on one side only lightly with bean puree, and place bean-side down on the top of the stack. Ladle about 1 1/2 cups of the tomato sauce over the top. Top with a charred habanero, and garnish with avocado slices on the side. Repeat the process 3 more times for 4 servings.
  • NOTE: The most authentic version of this recipe uses roasted cazón or dog fish. However, substitutes work wonderful, as well.

Notes

Pan de Cazón, recipe Courtesy of Chachi

Mexican Overloaded Double-Baked Potatoes

Posted on by Pati Jinich

So, we are about to start another school year. This time around may be one of the most bittersweet for me, yet.

The sweet side: Season 5 of Pati’s Mexican Table premieres nationwide this September (here’s a sneak peek)!

I can’t believe we have gone from a first season, born out of the sheer passion to share everything from my native country with my new home country, to a fifth season that comes right on the heels of two unexpected Emmy nominations and two James Beard nominations.

Super sweet because, I’m guessing that like during past seasons, the boys and I will jump on the couch in front of our TV to watch every new Season 5 episode right after our late Saturday morning breakfast. (The time and day you get the episodes depends on where you are.)

Super duper sweet because the boys have always watched the episodes with me despite knowing them by heart. They know the episodes names, have eaten the recipes (many times, countless times) and when possible they have tagged along with me to Mexico.

Since this season’s theme is the Maya World, they were able to experience some of the magic of the Yucatán Peninsula: From diving into cenotes, to exploring ancient ruins, to eating the most traditional and the most modern foods from the region.

pati-mexican-table-season-five-yucatan

Now, about the bitter: This is the last season Alan will have been a part of while living at home. This is his last year in high school (can you believe it?!?). So I have been worrying about passing on to him as many skills as I can, so he can cook for himself at college.

The truth is I even wondered what it would be like if we moved back to Mexico, where kids tend to stay at home until they finish college, or even until they get married (yeah, that was me, after our wedding my husband and I went back to my mom’s house to pick up the bags I had packed that morning).

Anyway. I may have already gotten his head spinning trying to explain how to buy every single piece of produce in the market each time we are there. So it was only natural that we ended up with an episode called “Alan Goes to College,” where I tried to show him how easy it is to make some of his favorite things, including these insanely good double-baked potatoes.

It is truly ridiculous how good those potatoes are, with crispy bacon, Mexican crema and melty Oaxaca cheese. You can make them a whole meal on any school night, too!

Pati Jinich with her son before his prom

That’s for the sweet and the bitter in my bittersweet start of this school year. But to end on a more sweet than bitter note…

I recently asked Alan, “when you are off to college, do you think you will want to be part of the next season, if I am lucky enough and work hard enough to continue?” I knew I could get a “nah, ma, it will be complicated,” so I pretended not to be beyond delighted to hear his “of course, ma” with that look of his that really says, “you are the silliest mom ever.”

(P.S. I hope you will go ahead and try these crazy good double-baked potatoes, as a taste of what’s to come in Season 5. If you’re a fan of spicing it up, like me, feel free to add in a couple of chipotle chiles.)

Overloaded Double Baked Potato
Print Recipe
4.23 from 9 votes

Mexican Overloaded Double-Baked Potatoes

This is Alan’s last year in high school. So it is only natural that we ended up with an episode in the new season of Pati’s Mexican Table called “Alan Goes to College,” where I try to show him how easy it is to make some of his favorite things including these Mexican overloaded double-baked potatoes…It is truly ridiculous how good they are, and you can make them a whole meal on any school night.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: bacon, baked potato, chipotles in adobo, mexican crema, Oaxaca cheese, pati's mexican table
Servings: 2 potatoes
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 large russet potatoes washed and scrubbed
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 5 thick slices of bacon coarsely chopped
  • 3/4 cup Mexican crema
  • 3 tablespoons sauce from chipotles in adobo sauce
  • 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce minced, optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt plus some to season the potatoes
  • 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese grated

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  • Using a fork, pierce potatoes all around, about 6 to 8 times. Rub potatoes with olive oil, season with salt, and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour until tender on the inside and crisp on the outside.
  • In a medium skillet set over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp and lightly browned. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate and set aside.
  • In a small bowl, mix the crema with the sauce from chipoltles in adobo and minced chiles, if using (I do!). Set aside.
  • Remove the potatoes from the oven. Using a knife, cut each one open lengthwise and carefully push the ends together, causing the center to open. Scoop out a couple spoonfuls of the cooked potato meat from each and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with salt and mix well.
  • Inside the scooped potatoes, layer a spoonful of the chipotle crema mixture, a spoonful of grated cheese and a spoonful of the seasoned potato meat. Repeat with the crema, cheese and potato meat. End with a bit of crema and cheese.
  • Raise the oven temperature to 500 degrees, or turn on the broiler. Place the stuffed potatoes back on the baking sheet. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes until the cheese has completely melted and has started to crisp. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with bacon and serve immediately.

Mexican Dreamboat Hot Dogs

Posted on by Pati Jinich

The first time (there’s been two…) my PBS TV series director saw me cry, it was over a Mexican hot dog.

We were filming for Season 3 in Morelia, the capital of the state of Michoacán. We had heard from many locals that the best Mexican-style hot dogs in the city were the ones at Richard’s.

You shouldn’t be surprised about Mexican-style hot dogs in the Mexican culinary repertoire. We love our hot dogs! In every city or town in Mexico, no matter how small or big, a few feet away from the top-selling taco stand, you are likely to find a top-selling hot dog stand. And once you try one, I bet that’s how you will want to prepare them in the future.

So anyway, we headed to Richard’s to meet him, film how he makes his hot dogs and try them. When we travel, I can’t help but share the food I love with my production team. I ask the sound guy, Dave, to take a bite, hoping he understands why I moan so much… I ask the camera guy, James, to take a bite too, so he can see why I keep on insisting that things are this or that good… The same goes for the director, Dan, the producer, Allie, and, well, pretty much everyone on board. If I taste something magnificent, I really want to share it with my team, mostly because I want them to experience it along with me. But this time it was different.

We got to Richard’s, he was super friendly, and he made an insane hot dog. Different from usual, I was not sharing a single bite with anyone and was very quiet. Not my normal self for sure. To the point that the director started asking, “Hey Pati, are you ok…?” And “why aren’t you showing it to camera,” and “…do you want to give James or Dave a bite?” I was zoned out. I was just shaking my head and eating the hot dog, so very slowly.

See, Mexican hot dogs and I go a long way back, as most Mexicans I guess. But in my case, rewind like 30 years ago. I was a girl, and my oldest sister started driving my sisters and me to school. Enjoying our newly found freedom, we started stopping at El Galán hot dog stand on our way back home. Though our intention was to have just one, it ended up being at least two or three. And, con todo, with all the trimmings.

El Galán translates to dreamboat or a hunk, which he was not, but his hot dogs were to die for. He would drizzle some oil on his hot plancha, or griddle, and throw on some chopped white onions, pickled jalapeños, and tomatoes. Then, as they sizzled, he’d squirt on some yellow mustard and ketchup with a secret sweet ingredient (we later found out it was orange soda!) and mix everything up. Onto that delicious mess, he threw a slice of American cheese and, once it melted, he piled everything onto a soft bun and topped it with a steaming turkey hot dog wrapped in crisp bacon. If you wanted your hot dog extra especial, a couple more crispy bacon slices would also show up at the party.

Then we would head home. Once there, we weren’t that hungry anymore. Once my dad figured out our shenanigans, he took out a $100 MN pesos bill, gave it to my oldest sister and announced that since we weren’t eating my mom’s planned home made meals, we were to eat at El Galán every day for that month. We were delighted to hear that, though we really tried not to show it… Now, I know what it feels like to be a parent that takes a disciplining measure that does nothing but fail, and then doesn’t know how to take it back.

In any case, we soon stopped going every day and left that hot dog rendez vous for Fridays, not to make my mom sad. It was a truly special time in our lives. And I am telling you those hot dogs were INSANE.

Then life happened. Then our parents divorced. Then we grew up.

Fast forward 30 years and I am eating Richard’s hot dog in Morelia. After a few minutes later, I snapped out of it, and we started filming again. I showed my hot dog to camera and ate some and shared most.  As we wrapped the day up, I asked Richard for an extra hot dog. I walked to the van, sat in the back, closed the door, and ate it by myself. A few minutes later, the director opened the door to find me weeping. When I saw his concerned look, I just said, “it is nothing really, it was just the hot dog.”

Here is the recipe as good as I remember it, minus the orange soda which I find to be really not necessary. Do try it at home!

p.s. Oh… pictured to the left of the dreamboat hot dog is a hot dog del mercado or market style hot dog, which is also phenomenal, and it is included in my new cookbook Mexican Today.

Mexican Dreamboat Hot Dog with bacon and cheddar by Pati Jinich
Print Recipe
4.50 from 4 votes

Mexican Dreamboat Hot Dogs

You shouldn’t be surprised about Mexican-style hot dogs in the Mexican culinary repertoire. We love our hot dogs! In every city or town in Mexico, no matter how small or big, a few feet away from the top-selling taco stand, you are likely to find a top-selling hot dog stand. And once you try one, I bet that’s how you will want to prepare them in the future.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: bacon, cheddar, cheese, Hot Dog, Pickled Jalapeños, Turkey Hot Dog
Servings: 6 to 8 hot dogs
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 6 to 8 slices bacon
  • 6 to 8 turkey hot dogs
  • 2 tablespoons canola or safflower oil
  • 1 white onion chopped
  • 1 tomato seeded and chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapeños or to taste
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup yellow mustard
  • 6 to 8 hot dog buns
  • 6 to 8 thick slices cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • On a cutting board, roll one slice of bacon around each hot dog. Place the tip of the hot dog over one end of the bacon slice, then roll the sausage around and around on the diagonal so that the bacon wraps around it and covers it entirely. If you get to the end of the hot dog and there is still some bacon left, roll back in the other direction until the whole strip of bacon is rolled around the hot dog.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon-wrapped hot dogs and cook, turning every 2 to 3 minutes, until crisped and browned on all sides. Remove from the heat.
  • To make the salsa especial, heat the oil in a medium skillet over medi-um heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is tender and the edges are beginning to brown, 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in the tomato and cook for another minute or so, until the tomato has softened a bit. Stir in the jalapeños, ketchup, and mustard and cook just until heated through, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat.
  • Preheat the oven or a toaster oven to 350°F.
  • Open the buns but try not to separate the tops from the bottoms. Top the bottom or both halves (to taste) with cheese (break up the cheese if desired) and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the buns are lightly toasted.
  • Place a bacon-wrapped hot dog on the bottom half of each bun and top with a generous amount of salsa especial. Cover with the top halves and serve right away.

Notes

Hot Dogs del Galán

To Die For Ceviche

Posted on by Pati Jinich

My present career began with ceviche.

After years as an academic, with two degrees and many policy research papers under my belt, with a husband, two kids and one on the way, I resigned from a prestigious think tank to walk a completely uncharted path.

I had been professionally frustrated for over a year and just continued to get involved in more projects in the office thinking I just had to work harder.

What triggered my career change was this: I had been asked to write a research paper comparing the democratic transitions of Mexico and Peru. Yet something was really off with me. Instead of doing my research on the political processes and crisis resolution tactics, I felt myself pulled to research the differences between Mexican and Peruvian ceviche.

Both countries boast to have the best ceviches, and both countries insist that they came up with the dish. I wondered about the true origins of ceviche in both countries. It has been recorded that the people of both countries had been eating raw fish since pre-Hispanic times…

But who got citrus first? How did their people come to use citrus to “cook” the fish, since citrus is native to neither country? What about chiles? Why is the spelling “ceviche” in one country and “cebiche” in the other, and what is the meaning and origin of the word? Why do Mexicans marinate their fish for a while, whereas Peruvians serve the citrus-dressed fish right away?

All I wanted to do was research, write about, and cook Mexican food – the food I missed so much. I knew it was time to pursue my passion in a more serious way.

My dad was perplexed about this change of direction. “After so many years of study, Pati, you are going into a kitchen to rinse pots and pans?”

Now I give him a hard time and respond, “…and to make the best ever ceviches.”

I have made many a ceviche over the course of the more than a decade since I switched careers. And I’ve liked each and every one.

But this one is truly special. And it is my very favorite one.

Red Snapper Ceviche with Mango, Avocado and Tomatillo
Print Recipe
5 from 6 votes

To Die For Ceviche

I have made many a ceviche over the course of the more than a decade since I switched careers. And I’ve liked each and every one. But this one is truly special. And it is my very favorite one.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, cacao nibs, Ceviche, flounder, grouper, jalapeno, mango, pati's mexican table, red snapper, rock fish, sole, tomatillos, tortilla chips, trout
Servings: 2 to 4 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 pound red snapper filet (or another mild flavored fish like grouper, trout, flounder, sole or rock fish), cut in small (about 1/2 inch) dice
  • 3/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 jalapeno chile stemmed and coarsely chopped, or to taste, seeding optional
  • 1/2 cup celery sliced
  • 1/2 cup red onion halved and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup cilantro leaves and upper part of stems, chopped
  • 1 cup (about 1 large) ripe mango diced
  • 1 cup (about 1 large) ripe avocado diced
  • 1/3 cup (about 2) tomatillos husked and scrubbed, and diced
  • 2 tablespoons cacao nibs optional
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse salt or to taste
  • Tortilla chips or tostadas

Instructions

  • Combine the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, jalapeño, celery, 1/4 cup of the sliced red onion, 1/4 cup of the chopped cilantro, and the salt in a blender and puree until completely smooth.
  • Place the fish in a bowl, add the pureed mixture, and toss well. Cover and let marinate for 20 to 25 minutes outside the refrigerator before serving, stirring from time to time. If marinating for more than 25 minutes, cover and refrigerate.
  • When ready to serve, add the rest of the onion and cilantro, the mango, avocado, tomatillo and cacao nibs if using. Toss well, taste for salt and add more as needed. Serve with tortilla chips (totopos) or tostadas.

Notes

Ceviche Que Te Mueres

Shrimp, Mango, and Avocado Rolls in Mexican Today!

Posted on by Pati Jinich

This recipe and its accompanying photo make me so very happy, and I think that they will make you so very happy, too. Here’s why in case you are in need of a list of reasons to make such a beautiful looking and yummy thing.

  1. These shrimp rolls are gorgeous! And if I may say, this is a gorgeous photo too, isn’t it? It is bright and bold and colorful, and it has so much life and texture. Of course, I did not take the photo. Credit goes to Ellen Silverman, who I was lucky to work with on my upcoming cookbook Mexican Today which is out April 12th, that is: in a matter of hours!
  2. These rolls are so delicious it is almost ridiculous! Wait until you bite into one! Tender shrimp gets quickly seared in the rendered fat from bacon, until browned outside yet still plump and juicy inside. Then, that crisp and meaty bacon is broken into pieces and mixed with diced smooth avocados and tangy mangoes in a super tasty vinaigrette. Grab a soft bun or a hard roll, open it up, add the shrimp, generously spoon on some of that bacon, avocado, mango mix and you are set for one after another bite of bold flavors. Plus, brunch, lunch or dinner is ready in 15 minutes.
  3. These rolls help break misconceptions about what Mexican food is. They showcase the evolution of Mexican cuisine north and south of the border and the beautiful place where we stand today. Mexican cuisine has such strong pillars to stand on that it welcomes playful uses of its ingredients.
  4. I am taking these rolls on book tour! I will be making these rolls, and many other new recipes from my new book, and giving you all a taste in some of the 20+ cities I am headed to for the tour!  I hope you will be able to come meet me at some of these events! There are still some cities and events in the works, so please check back to see what cities have been added.

Mexican Today is a book three years in the making that I am so proud to share with you. It is a book that I am dying for you to see, to read and to cook from. I was so excited about it as I was working on it that I over delivered the number of recipes to my editor! I cannot wait to hear what you think of the tacos, enchiladas, tortas, soups, stews, salads, casseroles, sides, desserts and drinks. There are many traditional recipes and many new takes that are part of this new collection, which is fun and super accessible too.

Every single one of the recipes is a favorite at home, and I can’t wait for them to be part of yours. Please do tag #MexicanToday on social media, so I can connect with you and see what you are whipping up in your kitchen either from my book or from your own Mexican cooking inspiration.

Warmest, always,

Pati

shrimp mango and avocado rolls
Print Recipe
4.67 from 3 votes

Shrimp, Mango, and Avocado Rolls

Tender shrimp gets quickly seared in the rendered fat from bacon, until browned outside yet still plump and juicy inside. Then, that crisp and meaty bacon is broken into pieces and mixed with diced smooth avocados and tangy mangoes in a super tasty vinaigrette. Grab a soft bun or a hard roll, open it up, add the shrimp, generously spoon on some of that bacon, avocado, mango mix and you are set for one after another bite of bold flavors.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, bacon, mango, Roll, Sandwich, Shrimp, Torta
Servings: 6 rolls
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 12 bacon slices
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped shallot
  • 2 garlic cloves finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon, sherry vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • Kosher or sea salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 large ripe Mexican avocados halved, pitted, flesh scooped out and diced
  • 2 ripe Champagne or Kent mangoes peeled, sliced off the pits, and diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 pounds fresh or thawed frozen medium shrimp shells and tails removed
  • 6 hot dog buns or soft rolls

Instructions

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until browned and crisp. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel–lined plate, leaving the fat in the skillet, and set aside.
  • Return the pan with the fat to medium heat, add the shallot and garlic and cook for about 2 minutes, until fragrant, tender, and just beginning to brown. Scrape the garlic and shallot into a medium heatproof bowl, along with the fat. Don’t wash the pan; just set it aside.
  • To prepare the vinaigrette: Add the vinegar, honey, mustard, ½ tea-spoon salt, and pepper to taste to the bowl with the garlic and shallot. Whisk or mix with a fork until well emulsified. Add the avocados and mangoes, gently toss together, and set aside.
  • Heat the oil and butter over high heat in the skillet you used for the bacon until the oil is hot but not smoking and the butter has begun to foam. Add the shrimp, without crowding the pan (cook them in two batches if necessary). Season with ½ teaspoon salt and pepper to taste, and cook, flipping them over once, until seared and browned, no more than 2 minutes. Transfer to a bowl.
  • Open the buns or rolls, trying not to separate the tops from the bot-toms, and arrange a layer of cooked shrimp on the bottom of each one. Top the shrimp with the avocado and mango mix and crown each with a couple of slices of bacon. Close the sandwiches and serve.

Notes

Rollos de Camarones al Ajillo, Mango, y Aguacate

Chiles Rellenos

Posted on by Pati Jinich

chile rellenos pati jinich
Print Recipe
4.34 from 6 votes

Chiles Rellenos

Chiles Rellenos recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 4, Episode 11 "Family Favorites"
Prep Time45 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: ancho chiles, cheese, chiles rellenos, chilis, chillis, fried, poblanos, stuffed
Servings: 6 to 8 chiles rellenos
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 6 to 8 poblano chiles (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 batch red sauce or salsa roja
  • 3 to 4 cups grated melty cheese such as Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, mozzarella or Muenster
  • 4 eggs separated
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

To prepare the poblano chiles:

  • Place chiles on a tray under the broiler, directly on the grill, or directly over the open flame. I prefer to broil them. Whatever method you choose, turn them every 2 to 3 minutes for a total of 6 to 9 minutes. They must seem charred and blistered on the outside, while the flesh must be cooked but not burnt. Place them immediately in a plastic bag, close it tightly and let them sweat for 10 to 20 minutes. Lastly, under a thin stream of cold water, remove the charred skin, which should come right off. Make a slit down one side of the pepper and remove the cluster of seeds and veins. Once cleaned, pat them dry.
  • Stuff each of the poblano chiles with about 1/2 cup grated cheese, or as much as will fit, allowing them to close. You may seal with a toothpick. Place 1/2 cup flour on a plate, roll the stuffed chiles in the flour and let them sit. The flour coating will help the batter coat and stay on the chiles.

To prepare the batter:

  • In a stand mixer, beat the egg whites until they hold stiff peaks. Gently, on low speed, fold in the egg yolks and only beat enough so that they are incorporated, a few seconds.

To cook the chiles:

  • In a large casserole, heat about 1/2-inch of oil over medium to medium-high heat. Once hot, test the oil, by dipping a teaspoon of batter into the oil; if there are active bubbles all around it, it’s ready. Dip each of the stuffed and floured chiles into the egg batter, making sure that they are entirely covered in batter.
  • In batches, place them in the hot oil without overcrowding, trying to have the side that was open or sealed with the toothpick facing up. Spoon some of the hot oil on top, so that it will seal the chile. Fry for about 2 minutes per side, flipping genly with a slotted spoon, until golden brown. Transfer to a paper-towel covered drying rack or platter.

To serve:

  • Heat the salsa roja. Serve the chiles with a generous amount of salsa roja spooned on top. Alternatively, you can place the chiles in a casserole and top with the heated salsa roja. Eat while hot and melty!