Antojos or Snacks

Skirt Steak Nachos

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Skirt Steak Nachos
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Skirt Steak Nachos

Skirt Steak Nachos recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 13, Episode 1 “Swinging Spirits”
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Antojos, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: beans, nachos, skirt steak, tortilla chips
Servings: 8 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds skirt steak
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 garlic cloves finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for the grill or pan
  • Totopos or tortilla chips made from 30 corn tortillas
  • 5 to 6 cups refried pinto beans homemade or store-bought, warmed
  • 1 pound grated Mennonite, Chihuahua, asadero, quesadilla, or Monterey Jack cheese (about 4 cups)
  • 10 to 20 pickled jalapeños thinly sliced, or to taste
  • 2 ripe avocados halved, pitted, and diced

Instructions

  • Cut the skirt steak into 4 to 6 pieces.
  • For the marinade, whisk together the soy sauce, lime juice, Worcestershire, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the meat, toss well, and let marinate while you heat the grill or grill pan.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F with racks in the lower and upper third.
  • Preheat the grill, grill pan, or a large cast-iron pan over high heat. (If using an outdoor grill, you can grease it with a halved onion – using a paper towel, rub the cut side of the onion with some oil and use it to grease the grill.) If using a grill pan or cast-iron, lightly oil it. Once hot, add the steak pieces, working in batches if necessary; do not crowd. Grill or sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove and cut into bite-size pieces, and cover to keep warm.
  • Place the tortilla chips on two large baking sheets. Spoon refried beans over all of the chips, cover with the shredded cheese, and top each chip with 1 or 2 pickled jalapeño slices. Bake 5 to 6 minutes until the cheese completely melts and begins to lightly brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and scatter the steak over the top. Scatter the diced avocado on top as well. Serve immediately.

Notes

Nachos con Carne Asada

Fresh Herb Corn Tortillas

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Fresh Herb Corn Tortillas
Print Recipe
4 from 3 votes

Fresh Herb Corn Tortillas

Fresh Herb Corn Tortillas recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 12, Episode 8 “Maya Today”
Cook Time30 minutes
Course: Antojos
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: tortillas, Vegetarian, Yucatán Peninsula
Servings: 16 corn tortillas
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups (231g) masa harina
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 1 2/3 cups warm water plus more as needed
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped cilantro, epazote or chives or a mix of any of them
  • Grated melty cheese such as Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, Muenster or mozzarella, optional, if making quesadillas

Instructions

To make the dough:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt. Gradually add the warm water, stirring with your hands to make a cohesive dough. Add the finely chopped herbs. Using your hands, knead the dough in the bowl until it’s smooth, about a minute or so. If the dough sticks to your hands and feels wet, add more masa harina a teaspoon at a time. If it crumbles when you roll a piece into a ball, add more water a teaspoon at a time.

To shape the tortillas:

  • Preheat a comal, a cast iron or nonstick pan, or a griddle, over medium heat for 5 minutes, or until evenly hot. Cut two round or square pieces of plastic – from a plastic produce or zip-top bag – to a size about 1/2″ larger than the diameter of your press. Set aside.
  • Divide the dough into 16 pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Cover them with a kitchen towel to keep them moist.
  • Working with one ball of dough at a time, place one piece of plastic on the bottom of the tortilla press, place the ball of dough, and top it with the second piece of plastic. Gently, squeeze the handle of the press until the dough is about 1/16” to 1/8” thick and about 5” in diameter. To achieve a nicely round tortilla, jiggle the handle of your press just as you near the bottom. You may need to press it a couple of times to get the desired thinness.

To cook the tortillas:

  • Open the tortilla press, peel off the top piece of plastic, and then take the tortilla on the bottom piece of plastic next to the comal, so that you can pass the tortilla to one hand as you remove the bottom plastic with the other hand and quickly but gently lay the tortilla on the hot pan. Don’t worry if it isn’t perfectly flat (you’ll get better as you practice), and don’t try to move it, which will cause it to tear. Return the piece of plastic to the bottom of the tortilla press.
  • Cook the tortilla until it releases easily from the pan and its color has lightened and become opaque, 40 to 45 seconds; you don’t want the tortilla to brown or become freckled at this point.
  • Using a spatula or your fingers, flip the tortilla and cook it until the bottom starts to brown and freckle, 70 to 90 seconds more. Flip the tortilla one more time and cook it until it puffs, 10 to 15 seconds. If the tortilla doesn’t puff on its own, gently poke it a few times near the center. Once it puffs, let the tortilla cook for 15 seconds longer, until fully set and soft. Remove the tortilla from the heat and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel, or transfer it to a cloth-lined tortillero.
  • Repeat the pressing and cooking process with the remaining dough.
  • If making quesadillas, add melty cheese, and if you want, a fresh leaf of epazote, to the center of a freshly made tortilla. Either fold in half or cover with a second tortilla and heat on the comal until the cheese is completely melted, flipping in between.

Notes

Tortillas con Hierbas Frescas

Pepita, Egg and Chaya Tamales

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pepita, Egg and Chaya Tamales
Print Recipe
4.50 from 4 votes

Pepita, Egg and Chaya Tamales

Pepita, Egg and Chaya Tamales recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 12, Episode 10 “A Mayan League of their Own”
Cook Time1 hour
Course: Antojos, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Eggs, pumpkin seeds, Tamales
Servings: 14 to 16 tamales
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the masa:

  • 1 pound chaya leaves can sub Swiss chard or spinach
  • 3 1/4 cups (about 1 pound) masa harina
  • 2 3/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste, divided
  • 3 stems fresh epazote about 15 leaves, or sub cilantro, coarsely chopped

For the tamales:

  • 1/2 cup hulled raw pumpkin seeds lightly toasted
  • banana leaves cut into 12” long pieces, rinsed, plus more for steaming tamales
  • 4 large eggs hardboiled, cooled, peeled, and cut lengthwise into 6 pieces
  • 1 cup Roasted Tomato and Habanero Salsa for filling, plus more for garnish

Instructions

To make the masa:

  • Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot over high heat. Once boiling, add the chaya leaves and let them cook for 2 minutes. Drain completely. Let them sit as you make the masa. Press with your hands to remove excess liquid as much as you can. Coarsely chop.
  • In a large bowl, combine the masa harina with the broth, using your hands to knead the dough until thoroughly mixed and very smooth, not “grainy.” Add the lard or vegetable shortening, and work it in, kneading, for a few minutes. Add 2 teaspoons of the salt, the chopped chaya and epazote, and mix until fully incorporated.

To assemble the tamales:

  • In a small saute pan or comal, set over medium-low heat, toast the pumpkin seeds for 3 to 4 minutes, until they are lightly toasted. Don’t let them brown or burn. Remove from the heat. Once they cool down, either finely chop or coarsely grind them in a spice mill or food processor along with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Scrape onto a bowl.
  • To prepare the banana leaves, turn a burner on to medium-low heat. Slowly pass each banana-leaf piece over the flame on both sides, until they change color and become fragrant, and set aside (so they will be resilient, malleable, and will not break).
  • One by one, set each leaf piece on your counter with the shiny, outer side down. Spoon about 1/3 cup of masa onto the center and spread to form a rectangle of about 5”x 3.” With the spoon, or your finger, make a shallow channel down the middle, creating a stripe in the masa. Add a couple teaspoons ground pepita, a couple pieces of hard boiled egg, and top with a tablespoon of salsa. Gently close each tamal by folding the longer sides first and then the short sides as if making a flat and tight package, but being careful not to press on the tamal too much.
  • Prepare your tamalera or steamer by adding just enough water to touch the bottom of the steaming basket. Line the steaming basket with a few banana-leaf pieces to gently cover the base. One by one, add the tamales, stacking them as evenly as you can, staggered in the same position as when you made them: laying them flat. Once you are done, cover with a few more pieces of banana leaves. Set the steamer uncovered over high heat, once there is a bit of steam coming out and the water starts boiling a few minutes later, cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook for an hour.
  • The leaves will have changed to a much darker color and will have completely wilted to wrap themselves as a second skin over the tamales, and the tamales should feel firm. Turn off the heat. Let the tamales sit for at least 15 minutes before serving so they will settle. Serve the tamales with the roasted tomato and habanero salsa.

Notes

Tamales Dzotobichay 

Black Bean Tamales with Pibil Pork

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Black Bean Tamales with Pibil Pork
Print Recipe
4.60 from 5 votes

Black Bean Tamales with Pibil Pork

Black Bean Tamales with Pibil Pork recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 12, Episode 7 “Recados”
Cook Time1 hour 25 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: beans, pork, tamal, Tamales
Servings: 14 to 16 tamales
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the pibil pork filling:

  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons achiote paste broken into small pieces
  • 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 pound pork loin or tenderloin cut into 1 1/2 to 2” chunks
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped white onion
  • 1 habanero stemmed, finely chopped
  • 1/2 pound ripe Roma tomatoes diced or crushed

For the masa:

  • 3 1/4 cups masa harina about 1 pound
  • 2 3/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
  • 2 teaspoons kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro or epazote leaves

To assemble the tamales and serve:

Instructions

To make the filling:

  • In the jar of a blender, add the chicken broth, achiote paste, vinegar, oregano, cumin and allspice, and puree until completely smooth. Set aside.
  • Heat the oil in a large deep skillet or casserole over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, add the pork pieces and season with the salt and pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping as it browns on all sides and starts letting out its juice. Add the onion, stir, and cook for a minute. Add the habanero and tomato and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, until vegetables soften.
  • Pour in the achiote mixture and stir. Once it comes to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, place the lid on, and cook for 30 minutes, until the liquid has thickened considerably and darkened. Remove the lid, stir, place the lid ajar, and continue cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes. The mix should still be wet but the sauce should have thickened and darkened a lot more. Remove from the heat. Shred the meat into the sauce with a couple forks. Let it cool down.

To make the masa:

  • In a large bowl, combine the masa harina with the chicken broth. Using your hands, knead the dough until thoroughly mixed and very smooth, not “grainy.” Add the lard or vegetable shortening, and work it in, kneading, for a few minutes. Add the salt, black beans and cilantro, and mix until fully incorporated.

To assemble the tamales:

  • To prepare the banana leaves, turn a burner on to medium-low heat. Slowly pass each banana-leaf piece over the flame on both sides, until they change color and become fragrant and set aside (so they will be resilient, malleable and not break).
  • One by one, set each leaf piece on your counter with the shiny, outer side down. Spoon about 1/3 cup of masa onto the center and spread it to form a rectangle of about 5”x 3.” With the spoon, or your finger, make a shallow channel down the middle, creating a stripe in the masa. Add a couple tablespoons of pibil pork. Gently close each tamal by folding the longer sides first and then the shorter sides, as if making a flat and tight package, but being careful not to press on the tamal too much.
  • Prepare your tamalera or steamer by adding just enough water to touch the bottom of the steaming basket. Line the steaming basket with a few banana-leaf pieces to gently cover the base. One by one, add the tamales, stacking them as evenly as you can, staggered in the same position as when you made them: laying them flat. Once you are done, cover with a few more pieces of banana leaves.
  • Set the steamer uncovered over high heat, once there is a bit of steam coming out and the water starts boiling a few minutes later, cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook for an hour. The leaves will have changed to a much darker color and will have completely wilted to wrap themselves as a second skin over the tamales, and the tamales should feel firm. Turn off the heat. Let the tamales sit for at least 15 minutes before serving so they will settle. Serve the tamales with the Roasted Tomato and Habanero Salsa.

Notes

Vaporcitos de Xpelón con Cochinita Pibil

Habanero Pork Belly Tacos

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Castacan (Habanero Pork Belly Taco)
Print Recipe
4.50 from 4 votes

Habanero Pork Belly Tacos

Habanero Pork Belly Tacos recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 12, Episode 6 “Yucatán Meats”
Cook Time2 hours 45 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: habanero, pork, tacos
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 4 cups water plus 1 cup for roasting
  • 1/2 cup kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 habanero
  • 2 pounds pork belly boneless
  • 8 to 12 corn tortillas
  • 2 cups grated melty cheese such as Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, Muenster or Mozzarella
  • Pickled Onion with Fire Roasted Chiles and Garlic optional, to garnish
  • Ripe avocado slices optional, to garnish
  • Salsa of your choice optional, to garnish

Instructions

  • To make the brine, in a small saucepan, combine 4 cups of water with the salt, sugar, oregano, black pepper, allspice, bay leaf, and whole habanero. Set over medium-high heat. Once it comes to a boil, stir and turn off heat. Set aside until cooled.
  • Using a sharp knife, score the top of the pork belly in a diagonal pattern, without cutting into the meat. Place the pork belly in a medium baking dish, pour in the brine along with the habanero, making a slit in the habanero. Cover and refrigerate anywhere from 12 to 48 hours.
  • When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 300°F with the rack in the middle of the oven.
  • Take the pork belly out of the refrigerator, remove it from the brine and place it in a clean or rinsed baking dish. Pour a clean cup of water over it and add the whole habanero from the brine.
  • Cover tightly with aluminum foil and roast for 2 1/2 hours, or until the pork belly is fork tender. Remove the aluminum foil, increase heat to 450°F, and roast for about 15 minutes or until the top has crisped and browned and the inner fat has mostly melted. Remove from the oven. Once cool enough to handle, cut into 1” slices and chop into bite size pieces.
  • Heat a comal, griddle, or skillet over medium heat. One by one heat the tortillas on both sides, add a couple of generous tablespoons of cheese and a couple generous tablespoons of pork belly. Once the cheese is melted, fold and let the tacos crisp on both sides. Serve with pickled onion with fire roasted chiles and garlic, ripe avocado slices, and/or your favorite salsa.

Notes

Tacos de Castacán al Habanero

Pumpkin Seed, Roasted Tomato and Habanero Dip

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pumpkin Seed, Roasted Tomato and Habanero Dip
Print Recipe
4.25 from 4 votes

Pumpkin Seed, Roasted Tomato and Habanero Dip

Pumpkin Seed, Roasted Tomato and Habanero Dip recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 12, Episode 8 “Maya Today”
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Antojos, Appetizer, Dip, Salsa
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: habanero, pumpkin seeds, Tomato, Yucatán Peninsula
Servings: 1 2/3 cups
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ripe Roma tomatoes
  • 1 fresh habanero
  • 2 ounces or 3/4 cup pumpkin seeds with their shells
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped cilantro leaves and top of the stems
  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh chives
  • Serve with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks such as raw zucchini, cucumber, carrots, jicama

Instructions

  • Preheat a comal, skillet, or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, add the tomatoes, habanero and pumpkin seeds. Toss and flip the pumpkin seeds as they toast, for a couple of minutes, just until they seem to puff up with a bit of air, about 2 to 3 minutes. They should be crunchy and taste toasty. Don’t let them brown too much or burn. Scrape them into a bowl and set aside.
  • Let the tomatoes and habanero continue to char and toast, for a total of about 8 minutes, flipping as needed, until completely softened and the skin is completely charred and blistered. Remove from the heat.
  • Using a food processor or spice or coffee grinder, grind the toasted pumpkin seeds with a teaspoon of salt until finely ground. If using the food processor, you can add the tomatoes, half of the habanero at a time, the cilantro and chives, and continue pulsing until everything is mashed together into a paste. Or, you can transfer the ground pumpkin seeds to a molcajete and mash the tomatoes and habaneros there, tasting as you go, then adding and mashing the cilantro and chives. Serve with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks.
  • Note: In west Yucatán they make it with cilantro, and in east Yucatán they make it with chives. Some people mix the two. Some people add the habanero raw, some roasted or charred.

Notes

Sikil Pak

Fried and Puffed Tortillas

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Salbutes
Print Recipe
4.75 from 4 votes

Fried and Puffed Tortillas

Fried and Puffed Tortillas recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 12, Episode 4 “A Family Affair”
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Antojos
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: masa, tortilla
Servings: 16 salbutes
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

To make the salbutes:

  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 3/4 pound masa harina about 2 1/2 cups
  • 2 ounces all-purpose flour about 1/4 cup
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 2 1/2 cups lukewarm water more if needed

To serve:

Instructions

  • Cut two round pieces of plastic — from produce or zip-lock bags — to a size about 1/2” larger than the diameter of your tortilla press and set aside. In a large skillet or cast iron pan, start heating about 3/4” vegetable oil, to have ready for frying the salbutes.
  • In a large mixing bowl, stir together the masa harina, all- purpose flour and salt. Add the lukewarm water and, using your hands, mix and knead the dough in the bowl until it is smooth and somewhat firm, about a minute. If the dough sticks to your hands and feels wet, add a bit more masa harina. If it crumbles and cracks when you roll a piece into a ball, or when you start pressing into tortillas, add more water a teaspoon at a time.
  • Once the dough is ready, divide into 16 pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Cover the bowl with a towel as you move along, so the dough won’t dry out much.
  • Working with one ball at a time, place one piece of plastic on the bottom of the tortilla press, place the ball of dough, and top it with the second piece of plastic. Gently squeeze the handle of the tortilla press until the dough is 1/8” thick and about 5” in diameter. To achieve a nicely round tortilla, jiggle the handle of your press just as you near the bottom. You may need to press it a couple of times to get the desired thinness.
  • Open the tortilla press, peel off the top piece of plastic. Then take the tortilla on the bottom piece of plastic next to the skillet, so that you can pass it to one hand as you remove the bottom plastic with the other hand and quickly but gently lay the tortilla in the oil. The oil should be bubbling all around the tortilla.
  • Using a large cooking spoon, actively and gently spoon hot oil over the top of the tortilla, so that you are helping it puff and also cook on the top side. Fry for about 30 to 35 seconds until it has puffed up on the top and browned on the bottom. Remove using the large spoon or a spatula and place on a paper towel covered drying rack or baking sheet. Continue with the rest of the tortillas.
  • Once they are fried this way, they are called salbutes. Eat while hot! Top with a spread of colado black beans, lettuce, pibil picadillo, avocado slices, and chunky tomato and habanero salsa.

Notes

Salbutes

Colado Black Beans

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Colado Black Beans
Print Recipe
4.25 from 4 votes

Colado Black Beans

Colado Black Beans recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 12, Episode 4 “A Family Affair”
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: beans, Vegetarian, Yucatán Peninsula
Servings: 6 to 8 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 pound black beans rinsed
  • 1/2 white onion
  • 8 to 10 sprigs fresh epazote or cilantro
  • 14 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
  • 2 to 3 xcatic, güero, or banana chiles you may add a habanero, too

Instructions

  • In a large pot, add the beans, half of an onion and epazote, and cover with 14 cups of water. Set over high heat, bring to a rolling boil, cover, and reduce the heat to medium low. Cook for an hour, remove the lid to check if beans are cooked and soft. If they aren’t, continue cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes and make sure there is still sufficient liquid. If not, add a couple more cups of hot water. Once the beans have completely softened, add the salt, stir, cover the pot, and cook for 5 more minutes. Turn off the heat and let cool.
  • Remove the epazote and onion. In batches, using a blender or food processor, puree the beans and their liquid until completely smooth.
  • In a large skillet or saute pan, heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the chopped onion and whole chiles, and cook until the onion is translucent and begins to brown, and the chiles soften and start changing color. Add the pureed beans and continue cooking, stirring occasionally until thickened to your liking. Taste for seasoning and set aside.

Notes

Frijol Colado

Sweet Lime and Chile de Árbol Guacamole

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Sweet Lime and Chile de Árbol Guacamole
Print Recipe
4.75 from 4 votes

Sweet Lime and Chile de Árbol Guacamole

Sweet Lime and Chile de Árbol Guacamole recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 12, Episode 2 “Guayabera World”
Cook Time0 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, chile de arbol, guacamole
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 to 3 chiles de árbol toasted, stems removed
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed sweet lime juice or 1 each of lime and lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 sweet lime or a mix of lime and lemon zest
  • 2 to 3 ripe avocados halved pitted and pulp cut into chunks or roughly mashed
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons thinly sliced chives

Instructions

  • On a preheated skillet, comal or griddle, toast the chiles de árbol until browned and crisp. Stem and finely chop the chiles and place in a bowl, or crush and mash them in a molcajete. Mix or mash the chiles with the salt, sweet lime juice, and zest. Once mixed, incorporate and mash the avocado. Top with chopped chives.

Notes

Guacamole con Lima y Chile de Árbol

Melted Cheese with Guajillo and Garlic Mushrooms

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Print Recipe
3.80 from 5 votes

Melted Cheese with Guajillo and Garlic Mushrooms

This queso fundido with mushrooms has the craziest cheese pull in the middle and an irresistible crunchy, cheesy crust all around.
Cook Time30 minutes
Course: Dip, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: cheese, Guajillo, Mushroom, queso, Queso Fundido
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic peeled, plus 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
  • 3/4 cup finely chopped white onion
  • 2 dried guajillo chiles stemmed, seeded and finely chopped or snipped with scissors
  • 1 lb mixed mushrooms such as white button, baby bella, and wild mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt or more to taste
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper or to taste
  • 4 cups grated mixed melting cheeses such as asadero, Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella
  • 8 to 10 flour and/or corn tortillas
  • Guacamole or 1 ripe avocado halved, pitted, and sliced (optional)
  • Salsa of your choice for serving (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F, with a rack in the upper third. Lightly oil a large shallow baking dish.
  • Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the whole garlic cloves and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and brown, 7 to 8 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and discard, leaving the flavored oil behind.
  • Add the onion and guajillo chiles and cook, stirring, for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the onion begins to soften. Add the chopped garlic, stir, and cook for a minute, until fragrant. Stir in the mushrooms, salt, and black pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until all the mushroom juices have been released and begun to evaporate and the mushrooms have begun to color, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from the heat, taste, and adjust the salt.
  • Combine the cheeses thoroughly and arrange in the baking dish. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted. Top with the mushrooms, return to the oven, and bake for another 7 to 8 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling, the edges are crusty, and the top is lightly browned.
  • Meanwhile, heat a comal or large skillet over medium-low heat for at least 5 minutes. One or two at a time, depending on the size of your comal or pan, heat the tortillas, making sure they are not overlapping, until warm, puffed, and browned in spots, about a minute per side. Place in a tortilla warmer or wrap in a clean cloth or kitchen towel.
  • Serve the queso bubbling hot from the oven, with the warm tortillas and guacamole or avocado slices and salsa, if desired. Let everyone assemble their own tacos at the table.

Notes

Queso Fundido con Hongos al Ajillo con Guajillo

Red Tacos with Queso Fresco and Piquín Salsa Verde

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Red Tacos
Print Recipe
4.25 from 4 votes

Red Tacos with Queso Fresco and Piquín Salsa Verde

Red Tacos with Queso Fresco and Piquín Salsa Verde from Pati's Mexican Table Season 11, Episode 7 "Cantina Culture"
Cook Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Antojos
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: red tacos, tacos, tacos rojos
Servings: 16 tacos
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the filling:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • ½ cup finely chopped white onion
  • 1 serrano chile stemmed and finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove pressed or finely chopped
  • 2 ripe Roma tomatoes (½ pound) cored and finely chopped
  • 2 to 3 tomatillos (⅓ pound) cored and finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • 2 cups crumbled queso fresco (8 ounces)

For assembling:

  • 1 batch Red Tortillas
  • Vegetable oil for greasing the comal
  • 1 batch Salsa Verde con Piquín to sauce the tacos
  • Mexican crema to drizzle over the tacos
  • Crushed dried chile piquín optional, garnish

Instructions

To make the filling:

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet set over medium-high heat. Add the onion and serrano and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until wilted. Stir in the garlic, stir and cook for a minute, until fragrant but not burnt. Add the tomatoes, tomatillos, and salt and cook stirring often, until they have completely softened and released their juices and then begin to dry up turning into a moist but mushy paste, about 7 to 8 minutes. Turn off the heat. Add the queso fresco and combine well. Set aside.

To assemble and dress the tacos:

  • Set your comal, cast iron, or nonstick skillet over medium heat. If desired, add a tablespoon of oil and spread throughout (you can also make the tacos without oil). Place a couple tortillas and add a couple tablespoons of the queso filling in the center of each. Fold the tortillas to close, and let the tacos cook and begin to crisp for a couple minutes on each side. Repeat with all the tortillas.
  • Serve, completely sauced with the Salsa Verde con Piquín. You may drizzle on Mexican crema and sprinkle some crushed dried Piquín on top.

Notes

Tacos Rojos de Queso Fresco con Salsa Verde con Piquín

Pork Stew Stacked in Corn Tortillas

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pork Stew Stacked in Corn Tortillas
Print Recipe
4.80 from 5 votes

Pork Stew Stacked in Corn Tortillas

Pork Stew Stacked in Corn Tortillas from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 11, Episode 3 “The World Cup of Tacos”
Cook Time1 hour
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: beans, chile, corn tortillas, pork
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the asado de puerco:

  • 3 pounds pork loin fat on, cut into 3/4” cubes
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 peeled garlic cloves
  • 10 whole allspice
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt

For the chile sauce:

  • 4 ancho chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 4 guajillo chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 1 pound ripe Roma tomatoes
  • 2 unpeeled garlic cloves
  • 1 thick slice of a white onion about 2 ounces
  • 1 jalapeño or serrano chile
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or to taste
  • Rind of an orange

To make empalmes (corn stacks):

Instructions

To make the asado de puerco:

  • Place the meat in a large, heavy casserole. In a piece of cheesecloth, wrap the bay leaves, 2 peeled garlic cloves, and the whole allspice. Tie with a piece of kitchen twine and place over the pork. Cover the pork with water and add 1 teaspoon salt. Give it a stir. Set over high heat and let it come to a boil. Remove any foam that rises to the surface. Reduce the heat to medium high and continue cooking until water has completely cooked off, about 45 minutes.

To make the chile sauce:

  • Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. On a preheated comal or medium skillet set over medium heat, toast the ancho and guajillo chiles for about a minute per side. Until they toast, change color and begin to fume, but don’t let them burn. Transfer them to a small saucepan and cover them generously with water. Place over medium-high heat and let cook for about 10 minutes, until they plump up and rehydrate. Turn off the heat and set aside.
  • On the same comal, place the tomatoes, 2 unpeeled garlic cloves, onion and jalapeño. Let them cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, and flip every 2 to 3 minutes as they char (alternatively you roast or char them under the broiler or on a grill for a similar amount of time). Once the skin is completely charred, and the tomatoes are very mushy and the onion and jalapeño are very soft, transfer them all to the jar of a blender, making sure to remove the skin of the charred garlic cloves. Add the rehydrated ancho and guajillo chiles along with 1 cup of their simmering liquid, an additional cup of water, the oregano, cumin seeds, and 1 teaspoon salt. Purée until completely smooth.
  • Once the water has completely cooked off from the pork, remove the cheesecloth packet and let the meat cook in its own fat for about 3 to 4 minutes, until it has browned on all sides. You may add a bit of lard or oil if the pork didn’t have much fat to begin with.
  • Reduce the heat to medium low and add the chile sauce. Stir well and incorporate the orange rind. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and seasoned and the pork is completely tender. The stew should be very saucy.

To make the empalmes:

  • For crunchy empalmes – In a skillet or comal preheated over medium heat, place a couple of corn tortillas and spread a tablespoon of Frijoles con Veneno on each tortilla. Top them generously with asado de puerco and cover with another corn tortilla on top. Let the tortillas gently brown on the bottom for about a minute or two. Gently flip and let them brown on the other side for a minute or two. You have a single-stack empalme. If you want a double-stack empalme, add one tortilla, frijoles, asado, another tortilla, frijoles, asado, and another tortilla on top.
  • For a soft empalme platter – Serve a hot corn tortilla on a plate, spread Frijoles con Veneno onto the tortilla, and add a generous amount of asado de puerco on top. Then add 3 to 4 more warm corn tortillas on top of the asado.

Notes

Asado de Puerco con Empalmes

Argentinian Chorizo and Carne Asada Torta

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Argentinian Chorizo and Carne Asada Torta
Print Recipe
3.75 from 4 votes

Argentinian Chorizo and Carne Asada Torta

Argentinian Chorizo and Carne Asada Torta from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 11, Episode 3 “The World Cup of Tacos”
Cook Time15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: carne asada, Chorizo, Torta
Servings: 6 tortas
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds skirt steak
  • Olive oil for brushing the steak
  • Kosher or sea salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 6 Argentinian chorizo sausages
  • 6 telera or bolillo breads cut in half
  • 1 cup Frijoles con Veneno
  • 1 ripe avocado halved, pitted and thinly sliced
  • 1 batch Chimichurri Mexa

Instructions

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grill grates by rubbing them with half or a quarter of a white onion. Brush the skirt steak with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Once the grill is hot, add the skirt steak. Cook for about 4 minutes per side for medium, or more or less depending on desired doneness. Once cooked, transfer to a chopping board and cover with aluminum foil until ready to slice.
  • Place the chorizos on the cooler sides of the grill, or on the second level of indirect cooking if your grill has one, and cook them for about 15 minutes, turning a couple times in between. Remove when ready.
  • When ready to make the tortas, cut the skirt steak into strips of about 2 inches, then slice each of the strips into thin pieces against the grain and set aside. Slice the chorizos in half from tip to tip.
  • Place the bread on the grill for about a minute per side. Spread a couple tablespoons of the Frijoles con Veneno on the bottom half, top with a generous amount of the skirt steak and a sliced chorizo. Garnish with slices of avocado and copious amounts of Chimichurri Mexa.

Notes

Choripan con Carne Asada

Ginger and Pistachio Guacamole

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Ginger and Pistachio Guacamole
Print Recipe
4.84 from 6 votes

Ginger and Pistachio Guacamole

Ginger and Pistachio Guacamole from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 11, Episode 10 “Top Chefs and Ancient Cliffs”
Cook Time0 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: guacamole
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped peeled fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lime juice
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons dried piquín chiles crushed or chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt
  • 3 large ripe avocados halved, pitted and diced
  • ¼ cup coarsely chopped pistachios plus a couple tablespoons for garnish
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, mix the ginger with the honey, lime juice, dried piquín, and salt until thoroughly combined. Add the diced avocado, mash and mix. Add the pistachios and mix until well combined. Pass to serving bowl and garnish with the remaining pistachios and fresh chives.

Notes

Guacamole con Pistaches y Jengibre

Ceviche Tostadas Puerto Vallarta

Posted on by Pati Jinich
ceviche tostadas
Print Recipe
4.13 from 8 votes

Ceviche Tostadas Puerto Vallarta

Ceviche Tostadas Puerto Vallarta recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 10, Episode 10 “Quiero más Tacos”
Cook Time0 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, cilantro, fish, jalapeno, lime, serrano, Tomato
Servings: 10 tostadas
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 pound very fresh mackerel fillets or other saltwater fish fillets, such as grouper, halibut, striped bass, red snapper, or fluke, skinned, rinsed, and cut into 1-2 inch pieces
  • 1 cup peeled and coarsely chopped carrots
  • 1 cup fresh squeezed lime juice
  • 1 jalapeño or serrano chile halved, seeded if desired, and finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped white onion
  • 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro leaves
  • ½ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 10 tostadas homemade or store bought
  • 1 large ripe tomato thinly sliced
  • 1 large ripe avocado halved, pitted, meat scooped out, and sliced

Instructions

  • Place the fish and carrots in a food processor and pulse 5-6 times, or until the mixture is finely chopped, taking care not to turn it into a puree. Alternatively you could mince with a sharp knife.
  • Place the fish mixture in a large bowl, pour the lime juice over it, and gently toss. Cover and marinate at room temperature for 30-45 minutes.
  • Drain the fish mixture through a fine mesh sieve, pressing out as much liquid as possible with the back of a spoon. Return the fish to the bowl and stir in the chile, onion, cilantro, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours, so all the flavors come together.
  • When ready to serve, taste the ceviche for salt and pepper and add more if necessary.
  • Mound 2-3 tablespoons of ceviche on top of each tostada. Top each with a slice of tomato and avocado and a final sprinkling of salt.

Notes

Tostadas de Ceviche Puerto Vallarta

Fried Shrimp Tacos with Apple Jicama Cucumber Slaw and Guacamole Salsa

Posted on by Pati Jinich
fried shrimp tacos
Print Recipe
4.17 from 6 votes

Fried Shrimp Tacos with Apple Jicama Cucumber Slaw and Guacamole Salsa

Fried Shrimp Tacos recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 10, Episode 10 “Quiero más Tacos”
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Chipotle, cucumber, flour tortillas, guacamole, Jicama, Salsa, Shrimp
Servings: 4 to 6
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground chipotle chile
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt plus more to season shrimp
  • 1 1/4 cups seltzer
  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined (tails off)
  • Safflower oil

To serve:

Instructions

  • Combine the flour, cumin, chipotle, and salt together in a medium bowl. Whisk in the seltzer water to make a batter.
  • Season the shrimp with salt.
  • In a heavy, wide skillet or casserole, pour oil to a depth of 4 inches and heat over medium for at least 5 minutes. Test the heat by dipping a wooden spoon or the tip of a piece of shrimp into the oil — it should bubble happily around whatever you introduce into it. Set a cooling rack on a baking sheet and cover the rack with paper towels. If you don’t have a cooling rack, just cover the baking sheet with paper towels.
  • Dip the shrimp into the batter and carefully drop into the hot oil. Fry until golden and crisp, turning once, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to the cooling rack and season with salt.
  • Serve the shrimp on a warm tortilla topped with the slaw and guacamole salsa.

Notes

Tacos de Camarón con Ensalada de Jícama, Manzana y Pepino y Salsa de Guacamole

Mushroom Tacos with Chile de Arbol Salsa

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Mushroom Tacos
Print Recipe
4.67 from 6 votes

Mushroom Tacos with Chile de Arbol Salsa

Mushroom Tacos with Chile de Arbol Salsa recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 10, Episode 10 “Quiero más Tacos”
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: chile de arbol, cilantro, corn tortillas, Mushroom, Salsa
Servings: 6 tacos
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons safflower oil
  • 3 garlic cloves peeled and roughly chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves roughly chopped
  • 1 pound mixed mushrooms such as maitake, crimini, shitake, sliced into ¾ inch pieces
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons Chile de Árbol Salsa plus more to serve
  • 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves and upper stems, chopped, plus more to garnish
  • 6 warm corn or flour tortillas
  • Cilantro flowers to garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot add the garlic and thyme and once the garlic begins to just lightly brown around the edges, add the mushrooms. Let them cook for 3 minutes, then stir and season with salt. Again, let them sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, or as needed, allowing any liquid to cook off and until they are deeply browned. Once browned, stir in the chile de árbol salsa and cook for one minute while stirring, so the mushrooms absorb the flavor. Stir in the vinegar and the chopped cilantro. Remove from heat.
  • Spoon onto warm corn tortillas and garnish with cilantro and/or cilantro flowers, if using. Serve with extra chile de árbol salsa.

Notes

Tacos de Champiñones con Salsa de Chile de Árbol

Conchas

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Conchas
Print Recipe
3.70 from 10 votes

Conchas

Francisco Migoya’s Conchas recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 10, Episode 7 “Getting to the Roots”
Cook Time25 minutes
Course: Antojos, Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: sugar, vanilla
Servings: 15 conchas
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the dough:

  • ½ cup (115g) whole milk, cold
  • ⅓ cup (75g) water
  • 2 teaspoons (8g) instant dry yeast
  • 3½ cups (480g) bread flour
  • 4 eggs cold (190g)
  • ½ cup (120g) unsalted butter softened
  • ⅓ cup, plus 2 teaspoons, (75g), sugar
  • 2¼ teaspoons (12g) fine salt
  • 2½ teaspoons (10g) vanilla extract

For the topping:

  • 1¾ cups (200g) powdered sugar
  • 1⅔ cups (200g) pastry flour
  • ¾ cup, plus 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon (200g) vegetable shortening
  • 2½ teaspoons (10g) vanilla extract

Optional flavorings:

  • ¼ cup, plus 2 tablespoons, plus 2 teaspoons (60g) any freeze-dried fruit powder such as dragon fruit
  • ¼ cup, plus 2 teaspoons (30g) cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons (12g) matcha powder
  • 1⅛ teaspoons (3g) any powdered spice such as cinnamon, pumpkin spice mix, etc.
  • 1½ teaspoons (3g) any citrus zest
  • 1½ teaspoons (3g) any tea finely ground

Instructions

To make the dough:

  • Dissolve the yeast in the milk and water in an electric mixer bowl using a whisk. Put the remaining ingredients on top. Start mixing on low speed using the hook attachment.
  • Once the dough ingredients have formed a homogenous mass, turn the speed up to medium high for 10-15 minutes until the dough reaches full gluten development. To check if the dough has reached this stage, first check if the dough looks smooth and uniform in the mixer. The second is whether the dough is “slapping” the sides of the bowl while it mixes. The third and definite test is to perform the windowpane test, which consists in taking a small piece of dough and gently stretching it with your fingers to get it to stretch as thinly as possible without tearing. If it can form a thin translucent membrane without tearing, the dough is ready to come off the mixer.
  • While the dough mixes, prepare a flat sheet pan by lining it with a lightly oiled non-stick rubber mat or plastic wrap.
  • After mixing the dough, take it out of the mixer and place it on a flat work surface area that has been lightly greased with spray oil to keep it from sticking. Perform a four-fold on the dough (this consists of flattening the dough with the palms of your hand into a square or rectangle shape as best as you possibly can folding each end in towards the center of the dough to create a smooth surface), then place the folded dough on the prepared sheet pan, seam side down.
  • Lightly oil the surface of the dough with spray oil and cover it with plastic wrap. Let the dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  • Flatten the dough as best you can to about 1 inch/2.5cm using the palms of your hands. Cover the dough again with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight in refrigeration.

Meanwhile, make the topping:

  • Sift the powdered sugar and flour together in a mixer bowl, then add the shortening on top plus the vanilla extract and whatever additional optional flavorings. Using the paddle attachment, mix on low speed until the dough comes together to form one mass.
  • Place the concha topping dough between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Roll the dough out to 4mm. Place on a sheet pan and into the freezer for 15 minutes (this helps with achieving a clean cut disc).
  • Cut the cold concha topping with a 2.4 inch/6 cm round cutter (weighing about 15g each). Place each topping disc on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper or a silpat and keep at room temperature until needed. If you are not using within 6-8 hours, wrap the sheet pan in plastic and place in refrigeration. It is important to note, when going to assemble the topping onto the dough balls, the topping must be at room temperature so it can be secured easily to the dough and stamped/scored in an even and clear design.
  • Alternatively, you can form the concha topping into 15g balls and reserve on a small sheet pan, wrapped with plastic, at room temperature, until needed. If you are not going to use the topping that day, keep it wrapped well with plastic in refrigeration.

To assemble the conchas:

  • Once it’s time to take the concha dough out of the refrigerator, remove the plastic wrap and flip it out onto a clean worktable. Peel off the non-stick rubber mat or plastic wrap that was used to line the sheet pan. Using a bench scraper or small knife, divide the dough into 70g pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
  • Place the dough balls onto three or four separate half sheet pans lined with oiled parchment paper with enough space between the dough balls to expand during proofing and eventually baking; five balls maximum per sheet pan, ideally four if you have enough sheet pans.
  • Take one disc of previously rolled out and cut concha topping. Center and place on top of a dough ball then press down lightly so it attaches well to the top and sides of the dough.
  • NOTE: If you do not roll out and pre-cut your concha topping, you can also use a tortilla press or your hands. Place a 15g room temperature ball of concha topping between two lightly oiled plastic sheets and press it gently using a tortilla press to about 2.4 inch/6 cm. If you do not have a tortilla press, press the topping with your hands, that are lightly oiled, until you achieve the proper diameter disc. Center and place the concha topping disc on the dough then press down lightly so it attaches well to the top and sides of the dough.
  • Directly after securing a disc of topping on the dough, use a concha cutter and press it onto the topping, forming the traditional shell-like pattern. If you do not have this cutter, use the tip of a paring knife to score the pattern on the topping. Continue, one at a time, securing a topping disc to the dough and stamping/scoring the topping directly after.
  • NOTE: It helps to achieve a nice even design with the topping if it is stamped/scored right after placing on the dough while the topping is still room temperature. Since the dough is cold, the topping quickly takes on that temperature as well making it firmer. The colder the topping gets, the more difficult it is to achieve a nice design on your conchas.
  • Proof the dough: If you are doing this at room temperature, cover the dough with a lightly tented clean plastic bag or a clean kitchen towel. It will take between 2-3 hours. If proofing in a fermenter/proof box, set it to 27℃/80℉ with 75% relative humidity it will take 1-1.5 hours.
  • During the last 30 minutes of proofing, turn a convection oven on to 175℃/350℉ or a still (home) oven to 190℃/375℉.
  • Bake in the convection or still oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

Conchas, recipe courtesy of Francisco Migoya

Pellizcadas

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Pellizcadas
Print Recipe
5 from 4 votes

Pellizcadas

Pellizcadas recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 10, Episode 7 “Getting to the Roots”
Cook Time30 minutes
Course: Antojos
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: cotija cheese, masa, queso fresco, refried beans
Servings: 18 pellizcadas
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups (231g) masa harina
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 2/3 cups warm water plus more as needed
  • vegetable oil

Toppings:

Instructions

To make the dough:

  • In a large, shallow mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt. Gradually add the warm water, stirring with your hands, to make a cohesive dough.
  • Mix and knead the dough with your hands in the bowl until it’s smooth and somewhat firm, about a minute or so. If the dough is sticking to your hands and feels wet, add more masa harina a teaspoon at a time. If the dough crumbles when you roll a piece into a ball, add more water a teaspoon at a time.
  • Cut the side seams of a quart-sized zip-top bag or plastic produce bag so that it opens flat along the bottom seam and then cut along the bottom seam to make two pieces of plastic. You can reuse this bag every time you make pellizcadas, sopes or tortillas. Set aside.
  • Divide the dough evenly into 18 pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Place the balls on a clean work surface and cover them with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel to keep them moist.
  • Preheat a comal, cast iron skillet, nonstick pan, or a griddle, over medium heat for 5 minutes, or until evenly hot.

To press the pellizcadas:

  • Working with one ball of dough at a time, sandwich it in between the plastic bag pieces on the bottom plate of a tortilla press. There should be a piece of plastic under the ball and another piece of plastic on top of the ball. Gently close the tortilla press until the dough is about 1/4” thick and about 3” to 4” in diameter. You may need to press it a couple times to get the desired thinness.

To cook pellizcadas:

  • Peel the top layer of plastic away from the pellizcada. Remove the pellizcada along with the bottom layer of plastic and place it in your palm with the plastic side up. Peel away the plastic and quickly, but gently, lay the pellizcada on the preheated pan. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until opaque and speckled, and they can easily be flipped without sticking to the pan.
  • Remove from the heat and place it on a flat surface or cutting board. At this point, it will not be cooked all the way through. Using a kitchen towel or cloth napkin to protect your fingers from the heat, press and gently pinch a rim around the edge of the pellizcada; the masa should still be soft enough to do this.
  • When finished forming all the pellizcadas, add oil to the comal or skillet, or brush each pellizcada with oil, and cook for one minute more on each side or until it’s cooked through and freckled with brown spots.
  • To serve immediately, remove pellizcadas from the heat and top each with a tablespoon of warm refried beans, some chicharrón en salsa, crumbled cheese, and chopped onion.
  • To serve later, wrap pellizcadas in a clean kitchen towel, seal in a plastic bag and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Reheat on a hot surface (comal, pan, or griddle) for a few minutes before serving. If desired, reheat in a bit of oil to crisp up the outside of the pellizcada.

Jalisco-Style Chicken Tamales

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Jalisco-Style Chicken Tamales
Print Recipe
4.12 from 9 votes

Jalisco-Style Chicken Tamales

Jalisco-style Chicken Tamales recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 10, Episode 6 “Tradition and Innovation”
Cook Time1 hour
Course: Antojos, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: chicken, jalapeno, masa, Poblano, Tamales, Tomato
Servings: 16 tamales
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

Tamal dough:

  • 3½ cups (326g) masa harina
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (184g) lard or vegetable shortening
  • 3¼ cups (738g) chicken broth

Filling:

  • 3 poblano chiles
  • 1 pound ripe tomatoes or one 14.5-ounce can of fire roasted tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup (71g) chopped white onion
  • 2 garlic cloves peeled and finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 4 whole cloves stemmed and crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (70g) chopped manzanilla olives stuffed with pimentos
  • 1/4 cup (46g) coarsely chopped capers
  • 1/4 cup diced pickled jalapeños
  • 3 cups (330g) shredded cooked chicken

For assembly:

  • 30 to 36 dried corn husks

Instructions

To make the tamal dough:

  • Whisk together the masa harina, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl.
  • Place the lard or vegetable shortening in a mixer set with the paddle attachment and beat on high until very light, about 1 to 2 minutes. Reduce the speed and add the chicken broth and masa harina mixture alternately, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Once it has all been added, raise speed to medium and continue beating for about 4 to 8 minutes, until the dough is homogeneous, very fluffy, and aerated.
  • To test if the dough is ready, drop 1/2 teaspoon into a cup of cold water. If it floats, it is ready. If it sinks, beat longer to aerate further.

To make the filling:

  • Place poblano chiles and tomatoes (if using fresh) on a baking sheet covered with aluminum foil. Place under the broiler and char for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping a couple times in between, until charred, soft, and wrinkled.
  • Remove the poblanos and tomatoes from the oven. Place the poblanos in a plastic bag, close the bag, and set aside to allow the poblanos to steam and sweat for at least 10 minutes, and up to 2 hours. Remove the poblanos from the bag and in a bowl of water, or under a gentle stream of running water, peel away the charred skin. Next, cut a slit down the side of each poblano and remove the seeds and stems before cutting into strips of about 1” x 1/4”. Set aside.
  • Chop the broiled tomatoes into 1/2″ pieces. If using canned tomatoes, simply chop them.
  • In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, a minute or two longer.
  • Add the chopped tomatoes (including the skins, seeds, and juices), cumin, crushed tops of the whole cloves, and salt. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until the mixture is dark red and thickened. Add poblanos, olives, capers, pickled jalapeños and chicken, stirring to combine. Cook for 5 more minutes.

To assemble tamales:

  • In a large bowl, soak the dried corn husks in hot water for at least 10 minutes, or until soft and pliable, drain.
  • Working with one corn husk at a time, lay it out with the tapered end pointing towards you. Portion about 1/4 cup (50g) masa onto the husk – a scone or muffin scoop works well here. Spread the masa into a rectangle, about 3” x 5”; the layer should be about 1/4” thick, leaving a border of at least 1/2” on the sides and at least 1” on the bottom. Place 2 tablespoons of the filling (about 40g) in the middle of the rectangle.
  • Pick up the two long sides of the corn husk and bring them together (the masa will start to swaddle the filling). Fold the joined sides of the husk together to one side of the tamal, wrapping them in the same direction around the tamal. Fold up the empty section of the husk, with the tapering end from the bottom up and spread the tamal gently so it is evenly distributed. This will form a closed bottom and the top will be left open. Place the tamales as vertically as you can in a container (open side up) and repeat the assembly with the remaining masa and filling.

To steam tamales:

  • Fill a steamer with water right up to the bottom of the steaming base or basket and bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. Line the steamer base or basket with a layer of soaked corn husks. Place the prepared tamales as vertically as you can into the prepared steamer with the open end facing up. If there is space left in the steamer, tuck in some more corn husks, so the tamales will be snug and not shift around. Cover the tamales with more soaked corn husks and steam, covered with a lid, for about an hour.
  • Turn off the heat and let them rest and settle in the steamer for at least 10 minutes. You can test the tamales for doneness by unwrapping one and checking to see that it releases easily from the husk. If it doesn’t, return the steamer to the heat, checking them at 5-minutes increments. Finished tamales will stay warm for about 2 hours in the steamer.

Storage information:

  • Tamales can be made ahead several days before and stored in the 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.

Notes

Tamales Tapatíos

Three Chiles Guacamole

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Tres Chiles Guacamole
Print Recipe
4.29 from 7 votes

Three Chiles Guacamole

Three Chiles Guacamole recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 10, Episode 4 “Los Mariachis”
Cook Time0 minutes
Course: Antojos, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, cilantro, jalapeno, lime, serrano
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 jalapeño minced
  • 1 dried chile de árbol minced
  • 1 serrano minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 lime
  • ¼ cup roughly chopped cilantro
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 4 large ripe Mexican avocados pitted and diced
  • 5 ounces (1 cup) multi-colored cherry tomatoes halved

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients, except for the avocado and tomatoes, in a molcajete and mash or mix until pasty. Add the avocado and mash until you reach your desired consistency. Fold in the tomatoes, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

Guacamole con Tres Chiles

Fermented Pineapple Drink

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Tepache
Print Recipe
4 from 7 votes

Fermented Pineapple Drink

Fermented Pineapple Drink recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 10, Episode 3 “Jalisco Classics”
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: cinnamon, piloncillo, pineapple
Servings: 8 to 10 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 4 liters, or 16 cups, water
  • 1 pound piloncillo or dark brown sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 5 whole cloves
  • 1 ripe pineapple or about 3 cups
  • 1 cup lager beer

Instructions

  • Using the traditional big earthenware jug (or a large pot), bring to a boil the 16 cups water along with the piloncillo, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves. Simmer, stirring once in a while, for about 10 minutes or until the piloncillo has dissolved.
  • While the water is simmering, wash the pineapple thoroughly, and remove the stem and bottom. Cut it into 2 inch cubes, without taking off its rind.
  • Once the flavored water is ready, turn off heat and add in the pineapple chunks and cover. Let rest for 2 days, or 48 hours, in a warm area of your kitchen. The mixture will begin to ferment and bubble on the surface. Add a cup of lager beer, stir well, and let it sit for up to 12 hours more. Don’t let it ferment much longer, or you may end up with vinegar instead!
  • Strain tepache through a fine strainer or cheesecloth, and serve very cold. You can either refrigerate it or serve over ice cubes.

Notes

Tepache

Roasted Tomatoes on Everything

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Roasted Tomatoes on Everything
Print Recipe
4.80 from 5 votes

Roasted Tomatoes on Everything

These roasted tomatoes can be used on avocado toast, pasta, grilled asparagus, an egg scramble or a cheese omelet.
Cook Time45 minutes
Servings: 2 cups approximately
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds ripe cherry tomatoes
  • 1 to 2 dried chiles de árbol stemmed, thinly sliced
  • 3 to 4 shallots about 1/2 pound, outer layer peeled, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves peeled, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Set the rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 400°F.
  • On a small baking sheet, combine the tomatoes, chiles de árbol, shallots, garlic, oil, salt and pepper and toss to combine.
  • Place in the oven and roast for 45 to 50 minutes, until tomatoes have completely softened and almost fallen apart and are charred on the outside.
  • The roasted tomatoes can be used on avocado toast, pasta, grilled asparagus, an egg scramble or a cheese omelet.
  • Note: It is important that the tomatoes be ripe for full flavor. If they seem hard or a bit unripe, leave them in a bowl on your countertop for a few days so they can continue ripening until fully colored and softened. 

Notes

Jitomatitos Rostizados para Todo

Wild Crunchy Granola

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Wild Crunchy Granola
Print Recipe
4.41 from 5 votes

Wild Crunchy Granola

A crunchy granola loaded with nuts, sunflower seeds, pepitas, amaranth, and quinoa. You can sweeten it up with dried cherries, chocolate chips, and coconut flakes as you please. 
Cook Time55 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: granola
Servings: 6 to 7 cups
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup pecans very coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup raw cashews very coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup shelled, unsalted peanuts very coarsely chopped
  • 2/3 cup hulled, raw pumpkin seeds or pepitas
  • 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
  • 1/2 cup amaranth
  • 1/3 cup white quinoa
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 2/3 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup safflower oil
  • 1/2 cup dried sour cherries optional to taste
  • Bittersweet chocolate chips optional to taste
  • Sweetened coconut flakes optional to taste

Instructions

  • Set the baking rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a medium bowl, add the rolled oats, pecans, cashews, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, amaranth seeds, and quinoa along with the salt. Toss to combine. 
  • In a small saucepan, combine the honey with the oil. Set over low heat and stir for a minute or so, until completely dissolved. 
  • Pour the honey and oil mixture over the nuts and seeds mixture and toss to coat. Spread over the prepared baking sheet and place in the oven. Bake until lightly golden brown, about 55 minutes, stirring once in between.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool. Scrape onto a bowl and add the dried sour cherries, chocolate chips and coconut flakes to taste. Store in a closed container with a tight lid.
  • Use the granola as a snack to munch on its own, on top of yogurt, ice cream, over fruit, or mixed with queso fresco or on top of fresh ricotta cheese.

Notes

Granola crujiente

Three-Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Three-Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
Print Recipe
4.56 from 9 votes

Three-Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

These enchiladas are typical of northern Mexico and use the region’s go-to red salsa, as well as three cheeses and crema.
Cook Time20 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: cheese, chicken, enchiladas
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 16 corn tortillas homemade or store-bought
  • Double recipe Colorado Chile Salsa
  • 4 cups shredded cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken
  • 1 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • 2 cups grated Oaxaca cheese or mozzarella (8 ounces)
  • 2 cups grated asadero or Muenster, or Monterey Jack cheese (8 ounces)
  • 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese or grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano (4 ounces) 
  • 1 ripe avocado halved, pitted, and sliced, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400℉, with a rack in the middle. Heat a comal or large skillet over medium-low heat for at least 5 minutes.
  • One or two at a time, heat the tortillas on the comal or skillet, without overlapping, for about a minute per side, until malleable and warm. Cover or wrap in a kitchen towel to keep warm.
  • Pour about 1 cup of the salsa into a 9-x-13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly over the bottom. One by one, place each tortilla on a cutting board and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the chicken evenly down the middle. Roll up into a chubby soft taco and place seam down in the baking dish. Pour the remaining salsa over the enchiladas and top with the cream. Cover with the grated cheeses and sprinkle the Cotija, Romano, or Parmesan over the top.
  • Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese has completely melted and begun to lightly brown around the edges. Serve hot.

Notes

Enchiladas de Pollo con Tres Quesos

Asparagus Mushroom & Goat Cheese Enchiladas with Pine Nut Mole Sauce

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Print Recipe
4.43 from 7 votes

Asparagus Mushroom & Goat Cheese Enchiladas with Pine Nut Mole Sauce

The tortillas are dipped into the luscious mole and wrapped around the filling of seared mushrooms and crisp-tender asparagus seasoned with orange zest and thyme, and goat cheese, which melts when the enchiladas are topped with the hot mole sauce. When you have vegetarians coming over for dinner, this dish is a must.
Cook Time30 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: enchiladas, Vegetarian
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the Pine Nut Mole:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped white onion
  • 1 cup raw pine nuts
  • 1 garlic clove chopped
  • 1 pound ripe tomatoes coarsely chopped
  • 2 ancho chiles stemmed, seeded, and coarsely chopped or broken into pieces
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth homemade or store-bought
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon packed brown sugar or to taste

For the Filling:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound white button or baby bella (cremini) mushrooms cleaned and diced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 pound asparagus tough ends removed, peeled from just below the tips tothe bottom, and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried
  • 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

To assemble:

  • 12 corn tortillas
  • 6 ounces goat cheese cut into chunks (about 3/4 cup)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped chives for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts toasted, for garnish

Instructions

To make the mole:

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large casserole or heavy pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until completely softened. Stir in the pine nuts and garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant and changes color and the pine nuts are light brown and smell toasty. Raise the heat to medium-high, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the tomatoes, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and break down, 7 to 8 minutes. Add the ancho chiles, orange juice, broth, salt, and brown sugar and bring to a simmer. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the chiles have rehydrated and plumped up and the sauce has thickened, about 8 minutes more.
  • Transfer the contents of the pot to a blender and let cool for a few minutes, then puree, in batches if necessary, until completely smooth.
  • Rinse out and dry the pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, and heat over medium heat. Add the pine nut mole, cover partially, and simmer for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has darkened and thickened a bit more. Cover and set aside.

To make the filling:

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet or casserole over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and let them sear and brown, without stirring, for 3 to 4 minutes. Push the mushrooms to the sides of the pan and add the butter to the middle. When the butter begins to foam, add the asparagus, thyme, orange zest, salt, and pepper to taste, stir together with the mushrooms, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is crisp-tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the heat.

To assemble:

  • Heat and lightly toast the tortillas on a hot comal or skillet.
  • Dip a tortilla in the mole, place it on a plate, and top with 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mushroom and asparagus mixture and a tablespoon of crumbled goat cheese. Roll up into a chubby enchilada and place seam side down on a serving platter. Continue with the remaining tortillas and filling.
  • Reheat the sauce if necessary. Spoon a generous amount of sauce on top of the enchiladas (use it all if you wish), garnish with the chives and toasted pine nuts, and serve.

Notes

Enchiladas de Espárragos, Cahmiñones y Queso de Cabra con Mole de Piñón

Corn, Cheese and Chile Verde Tamales

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Corn, Cheese and Chile Verde Tamales
Print Recipe
3.67 from 9 votes

Corn, Cheese and Chile Verde Tamales

Corn, Cheese and Chile Verde Tamales recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 9, Episode 10 "Sabores Norteños"
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 40 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: anaheim chiles, cheese, chile verde, Corn, corn husks, elote, masa, Mexico, pati’s mexican table, poblanos, queso, rajas, Sonora, Sonoran, tamal, Tamales
Servings: 15 tamales
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the fresh corn masa:

  • 4 cups white corn kernels fresh or thawed frozen
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup corn flour for tamales or masa harina
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil

For the filling:

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 cup slivered white onion
  • 1 pound fresh Anaheim chiles roasted, sweated, peeled, stemmed, seeded and cleaned, sliced into thin strips
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt

To assemble the tamales:

  • 30 dried corn husks plus more for lining the steamer
  • 1 1/2 cups grated melting cheese such as asadero, quesadilla, Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella

Instructions

To make the fresh corn masa:

  • Coarsely puree the corn kernels along with the evaporated milk in a food processor or blender. The mixture should be a bit chunky, not completely smooth.
  • Combine the butter and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, and beat at medium speed until very soft and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl and beaters.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the masa harina, the baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  • Reduce the mixer speed to low and alternate adding the ground corn mixture with the masa harina mixture. Once all is incorporated, add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil, increase the speed to medium and continue beating until completely amalgamated, creamy and fluffy, about 7 to 8 more minutes.

To make the filling:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring often, until it begins to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the sliced roasted Anaheim chiles, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, and continue to cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are very soft and all of the flavors have combined. Remove from the heat and scrape into a bowl.

To assemble the tamales:

  • Remove about 30 good size corn husks from the package and place in a large bowl of hot water. Soak for a couple of minutes, or until they are pliable, and drain. One by one, lay out a corn husk with the tapering end towards you. If the husks seem thin, layer a second corn husk on top. Leaving a 1 to 1 1/2-inch space at the bottom, a minimum of 1/2 inch space on the sides and a little more than that at the top, spread about 1/4 cup masa into an approximately 2×3-inch rectangle. The masa layer will be a little thicker than 1/4 inch. Place a very generous tablespoon of the Anaheim and onion filling along with a very generous tablespoon of the grated cheese lengthwise down the middle of the masa.
  • Pick up the two long sides of the corn husk and bring them together (you will see how the masa swaddles the filling) and fold the joined edges to one side, rolling them around the tamal. Fold up the empty tapering end, from the bottom up. This will form a closed bottom and the top will be left open. If the tamale won’t hold, you can tear strips from unused tamale wrappers and tie them around the bottom. Gently press from the bottom to the top to even the filling out, without squeezing too hard.
  • If not steaming right away, place on a plate or sheet pan, cover with plastic, and refrigerate. You can assemble them a day ahead of steaming. You can also steam them ahead and reheat (see below).
  • 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. If you want to be reassured that the water hasn’t all evaporated during the long steaming time, place a penny in it so you can hear it dancing around. 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 in 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, cover tightly with a lid, and steam covered for 1 1/2 hours. Allow the finished tamales to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. You know the tamales are ready when they come away easily 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 and stored for several days in the 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.

Notes

Tamales de Elote con Rajas y Queso

Double Stacked Shrimp and Cheese Tacos

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Double Stacked Shrimp and Cheese Tacos
Print Recipe
4.84 from 6 votes

Double Stacked Shrimp and Cheese Tacos

Double Stacked Shrimp and Cheese Tacos recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 9, Episode 7 "Legends of the Sonoran Sea"
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, cheese, Chiles, corn tortillas, Mexico, Oaxaca cheese, pati’s mexican table, Shrimp, Sonora, Sonoran, tacos
Servings: 6 to 8 double tacos
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ripe tomatoes
  • 4 garlic cloves peeled
  • 2 to 3 chiles de árbol stemmed, keep the seeds (more to taste)
  • 2 teaspoons oregano
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt or to taste, plus more for seasoning the shrimp
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil divided, plus more to cook the tacos
  • 2 pounds medium shrimp rinsed, shelled, and butterflied
  • Freshly ground pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 12 to 16 corn tortillas
  • 3 cups melty shredded cheese such as mozzarella, asadero, Oaxaca, quesadilla, or Monterey Jack
  • 1 large ripe avocado halved, pitted, thinly sliced

Instructions

  • Combine the tomatoes, garlic and chiles de árbol in a medium saucepan, cover with water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook for about 10 minutes, until the tomatoes and garlic are completely soft and the chiles are plump and rehydrated. Transfer to a blender with 1 cup of the cooking liquid. Add the oregano, tomato paste and salt, and puree until completely smooth.
  • Heat the 1 tablespoon of the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, pour in the tomato puree, cover partially and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 6 minutes, until the mixture has thickened and darkened, and the flavors have intensified. Turn off the heat.
  • Season the butterflied shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt 1 tablespoon butter with 1 tablespoon oil in a large sauté pan over high heat. Once the butter begins to foam, add half the shrimp and quickly sear for a minute or so per side. They should be browned and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook or the shrimp will be rubbery. Scrape into a bowl. Melt another tablespoon butter and oil together and repeat with the second batch.
  • Heat a comal, griddle or large skillet, preferably nonstick or cast iron, over medium heat. Add a tablespoon or two of oil to the surface.
  • One by one, lightly sauce the tortillas: briefly dip them into the tomato sauce, making sure the entire tortilla is coated (I like to use a pair of rubber tipped tongs but you could also just use you hands) and lay as many as will fit on the comal or griddle without overlapping. Top each tortilla with 2 to 3 tablespoons shredded cheese. Leave for a couple of minutes, until the cheese begins to melt and the bottoms of the sauced tortillas begin to dry and brown a little. Then, using a spatula, stack two sauced, browned and cheese-topped tortillas, one on top of another.
  • Don’t worry if the tortilla that you scrape up to stack on top of the other one sticks and tears a little bit or if it is not sitting evenly on top. Spoon some seared shrimp on top of each stack, gently fold with a spatula and continue cooking for a couple of minutes, until the cheese has completely melted and begun to ooze out and create a crust.
  • Remove from the heat and serve hot. Top with slices of ripe avocado.

Notes

Tacos Bravos de Toño

Sonoran Style Shrimp and Scallop Tostada

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Sonoran Style Shrimp and Scallop Tostada
Print Recipe
4.60 from 5 votes

Sonoran Style Shrimp and Scallop Tostada

Sonoran Style Shrimp and Scallop Tostada recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 9, Episode 7 "Legends of the Sonoran Sea"
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Cachoreada, chiltepín chiles, mayonnaise, Mexico, pati’s mexican table, Salsa, Scallops, Shrimp, Sonora, Sonoran, tostadas
Servings: 6 to 8 big tostadas
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the mayonnaise:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • Pinch of kosher or sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the tostadas:

Instructions

To make the mayonnaise:

  • In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise with the lime zest. Season with salt and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.

To make the tostadas:

  • Have the three salsas prepared and ready to use, and the tostadas within reach.
  • Season the shrimp and scallops with the salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon oil in a very large skillet over high heat. Once the butter has begun to foam, add the shrimp. Cook for 1 or 2 minutes per side, just until nicely seared and browned on the outside but not overcooked inside. Scrape into a bowl. Return the skillet to the heat, add the remaining butter and oil, and once the butter foams, add the scallops. Cook for a minute per side, until the tops and bottoms are browned and the middles are no longer translucent, and remove from the heat. The scallops should be medium rare. As soon as you can handle them, slice thin and set aside.
  • Spread about a tablespoon of the mayonnaise on each tostada, top with a layer of sliced scallops, a couple of tablespoons of the salsa bandera, and then a layer of the shrimp. Crown with avocado slices. Top the avocado slices with a couple of tablespoons of salsa negra and add apple chiltepin salsita or another hot sauce to taste. Serve immediately, passing more salsa negra around the table for people to add as desired.

Notes

Cachoreada

Beef, Potato and Anaheim Chimichanga

Posted on by Pati Jinich
beef, potato, and anaheim chile chimichanga
Print Recipe
4.72 from 7 votes

Beef, Potato and Anaheim Chimichanga

Beef, Potato and Anaheim Chimichanga recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 9, Episode 6 "Sonoran Family Favorites for Sami"
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time2 hours 30 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: beef, chimichanga, flour tortillas, mexican crema, Mexico, pati’s mexican table, Potato, queso fresco, Sonora, Sonoran
Servings: 8 to 12 chimichangas
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

For the cooked meat:

  • 2 pounds beef chuck round or stewing meat, cut into 1- to 2-inch pieces
  • 1/2 white onion
  • 6 garlic cloves peeled
  • 2 teaspoons kosher or sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

For the seasoned cooked meat:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup chopped white onion
  • 3/4 pound, 3 medium, potatoes peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt divided
  • 1/2 pound ripe roma tomatoes cored and diced
  • 4 fresh Anaheim chiles roasted, peeled, seeded and diced

For the chimichangas:

  • 8 to 12 large flour tortillas
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cups shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce
  • 1 cup crumbled queso fresco
  • Mexican crema optional
  • Diced tomato optional
  • Ripe diced avocado optional
  • Sonoran Roasted Salsa or salsa of your choice

Instructions

To cook the meat:

  • Place the meat in a large soup pot or casserole and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Skim off any foam. Add the halved onion, garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons salt, black peppercorns, bay leaves, oregano, coriander and cumin seeds, and stir well. Reduce heat to medium low, cover and cook for 1 1/2 hours, or until the meat is fork tender and shreds easily. Remove from the heat.
  • Remove the meat from the broth, set aside, and strain the broth. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the broth for later use and store or freeze the rest if you want to use it for something else. Once the meat has cooled enough to handle, shred or chop into smaller pieces.

To make the seasoned cooked meat:

  • Heat the oil in a large wide casserole or skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and the potatoes, season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions have softened and the potatoes have begun to brown. Stir in the tomatoes and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and mushy. Add the chiles and the other 1/2 teaspoon salt and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture is nicely seasoned and blended together. Stir in the shredded meat and reserved meat broth and cook until the broth is mostly absorbed, the potatoes have completely softened, and the mixture is nicely amalgamated and delicious. It should be moist but not wet.

To make the chimichangas:

  • Heat a comal, griddle or skillet over medium low heat for at least 3 to 4 minutes. Heat the flour tortillas a couple at a time (or 1 at a time if that’s all you can fit in the skillet or on the griddle in a single layer) for about a minute per side, until completely heated through. Remove tortillas and one by one, top with a couple of generous spoonfuls of the shredded cooked beef. Roll to enclose the filling, and after the first roll, fold in the sides and continue to roll, making an elongated burrito-shaped package.
  • Once the packets are ready, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, place the chimichangas in the pan seam side down and fry for a minute on each side, until lightly colored. Serve garnished with lettuce, queso, and if desired crema, tomato, avocado and salsa.

Notes

Chimichanga de Guisado de Res

My Favorite Queso Fundido paired with Gran Centenario Añejo Tequila

Posted on by Pati Jinich

Jaw-dropping. As soon as you set it on a table it will fly off. Guaranteed. Especially if I am around!

Queso fundido is the epitome of an antojo. What we Mexicans call a food craving that can be eaten anytime of day as a quick snack, or a full meal if eaten in a big enough amount. Antojo literally translates to craving, and I don’t know a single Mexican that doesn’t drool over the thought of a queso fundido.

Queso fundido is not a cheese dip. Queso fundido is not a cheese sauce. Queso fundido is the real deal. It is real cheese. Tons of it. You throw a combination of deliciously flavorful melty cheeses onto a baking dish or a traditional earthenware cazuela. Then place it on a heat source — it can be on a burner, in the oven, under the broiler — until the cheese not only melts, but becomes super bubbly on top and starts making a crust all around the edges.

Wait. Then come the toppings. The most typical and popular toppings in restaurants in Mexico City, where I grew up, are poblano rajas, chorizo and mushrooms. They are separate offerings, so you choose if you want your queso with chorizo or with rajas or mushrooms. Different restaurants have their variations, for example, it can be rajas with caramelized onions, different kinds of chorizo, cultivated or wild mushrooms cooked with epazote or dried chiles, to name some.

When I make queso at home, I like to make a combo of my favorite toppings. No one can stop me and no one should stop you! My take combines caramelized onions and poblano chiles, throws in a bit of seeded and diced tomato for an added juicy bite and tons of crisp chunks of flavorful chorizo.

Most people I know like their queso fundido on flour tortillas. But it is you and your guests’ choice if they want corn tortillas, too. If you have some some salsas and guacamole, place them on the table for optional add ons.

Whichever way, have your Gran Centenario Añejo Tequila out to chase your queso fundido tacos and to wash down that queso fundido. I like to serve it neat or on the rocks as it has such a smooth taste.

Once everything is on the table, all bets are off. Run for it, if you want a chance to make a queso fundido taco before it disappears.

Poblano Rajas Chorizo Queso Fundido

poblano rajas chorizo queso fundido
Print Recipe
4.58 from 7 votes

Poblano Rajas and Chorizo Queso Fundido

The popular Mexican antojo, or craving, Queso Fundido topped with chorizo, onion, poblano rajas, and tomato. 
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Antojo, Chorizo, Queso Fundido
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil plus more to grease the baking dish
  • 1/3 pound Mexican chorizo casings removed, coarsely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/4 white onion halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 poblano chile roasted, sweated, peeled, cut into strips
  • 1 ripe Roma tomato cored, seeded, cut into small dice
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt or to taste
  • 1 pound (or 4 cups) combination of shredded Mexican-style melty cheeses such as Asadero, quesadilla and Oaxaca (can sub with mozzarella, Muenster and Monterey Jack)
  • 8 to 10 flour or corn tortillas
  • 1 ripe avocado sliced
  • Serve with salsa of your choice optional
  • Pair with Gran Centenario Añejo Tequila neat or on the rocks

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chorizo, cook for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking it into smaller pieces with a couple of spatulas or wooden spoons until crisp and brown. Remove from the heat and scrape into a bowl.
  • Set a rack on upper third tier of the oven and preheat to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Return the skillet to medium heat, add the butter and once it melts, add the onions. Cook, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pan, for 6 to 7 minutes, until they have wilted and begun to brown around the edges. Add the poblano pepper strips, tomato, and salt, and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the heat and transfer to a bowl.
  • Place shredded cheese in a gently oiled shallow baking dish that can comfortably hold it. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until completely melted. Remove from the oven. Top with the crispy chorizo and poblano rajas mixture. Place back in the oven and bake for another 7 to 8 minutes, until cheese is oozing and browned along the edges and part of the top.
  • Meanwhile, preheat a comal or large skillet over medium-low heat. Heat the tortillas, making sure they are not on top of each other, until completely warmed, puffed and slightly browned. Place in a tortilla warmer or wrap in a clean cloth or kitchen towel.
  • Remove the queso from the oven and place on the table along with the warm tortillas, ripe avocado slices, and salsa of choice, if desired. Let everyone assemble their tacos!

Notes

Queso Fundido

Sonoran Hot Dogs

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Sonoran Hot Dog
Print Recipe
3.15 from 7 votes

Sonoran Hot Dogs

Sonoran Hot Dogs, courtesy of Daniel Contreras of El Güero Canelo Restaurant, from Pati's Mexican Table, Episode 13, "How Do You Say Tucson?"
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Antojos, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: Arizona, bacon, Hot Dog, Mexican, Sonoran, Tucson, Turkey Hot Dog
Servings: 4 hot dogs
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 4 slices bacon
  • 4 turkey hot dogs
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 cup chopped white onion
  • 4 güero chiles or banana peppers
  • 4 hot dog buns
  • 1 cup cooked pinto beans warmed up

Toppings:

  • Chopped raw white onion
  • Chopped tomato
  • Jalapeño hot sauce or salsa of your choice
  • Mustard
  • Mayonnaise

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 hot dog 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 skillet and set aside.



  • In the same skillet, heat the vegetable oil and add the 1 cup chopped white onion. Sauté the onion until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Scrape into a small bowl and set aside.
  • Meanwhile, char the güero chiles on a hot comal or skillet set over medium heat for 3
    to 6 minutes. Turn it once or twice, until its skin has lightly charred. Remove from heat.

To assemble:

  • Place one bacon-wrapped hot dog in a bun, then spoon on a generous tablespoon of warm pinto beans and about a tablespoon of the cooked onion. Top with some chopped raw onion, chopped tomato, hot sauce or salsa, mustard, and mayonnaise. Repeat with the remaining hot dogs and serve each one with a charred güero chile on the side.

Notes

Hot Dogs Sonorenses, recipe courtesy of Daniel Contreras of El Güero Canelo Restaurant

Canela Pumpkin Torito

Posted on by Pati Jinich

Over the years, and traveling all around to different cities, I’ve realized it’s incredible how much you can learn about Mexican food being in the US. Because Mexicans you meet here come from so many different parts of Mexico, each with their own unique regional cuisine and traditions.

Such was the case when Nándo and Germán responded to my post on social media wondering if anyone in New York would be willing to invite me over for lunch, while I was there for work earlier this month.

Nándo and Germán generously welcomed me into their home in Brooklyn. Where their friends were waiting, including Cristina who traveled all the way from Arizona. I was so thrilled to meet them!

Germán, whose family is in Puebla, made his mom’s adobo for me. Meanwhile, since they were so kind to open their doors to me and do the cooking, drinks were on me. So I brought the tequila. I whipped up a version of a traditional drink from Veracruz for everyone, called a torito. A name I love because torito translates to “little bull,” which refers to the little kick it gives. It can be deceiving because it’s so sweet and creamy.

Since pumpkin is such an essential ingredient in Mexico, I did a pumpkin torito this time. It has pumpkin puree, canela or true cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, and sweetened condensed milk. To give it that kick, I use Gran Centenario Añejo Tequila – its deep, rustic, caramelly flavor goes harmoniously with the pumpkin.

When the meal was ready, I felt like I was in a fonda back in Mexico. Nándo made my arroz rojo to go with Germán’s adobo chicken, and we had pinto beans on the side. It was phenomenal, really delicious and comforting.

I felt honored Germán made his mom’s adobo for me, as sharing family recipes truly means a lot.

If Nándo and Germán weren’t already kind enough, they let me bring along my production team and their cameras. So you can watch what happened in the video below…

And, of course, I want you to be able to try my spiced up canela pumpkin torito for the holidays. The recipe is below, so invite over some friends, grab a bottle of tequila, and whip up a batch.

Canela Pumpkin Tortito
Canela Pumpkin Torito
Print Recipe
3.17 from 6 votes

Canela Pumpkin Torito

Since pumpkin is such an essential ingredient in Mexico, I did a pumpkin torito. It has pumpkin puree, canela or true cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, sweetened condensed milk, and a splash of tequila (or leave it out if you choose).
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: canela, cinnamon, cocktail, Fall, frappe, holiday, pumpkin, spiced, tequila, torito
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup Gran Centenario® Añejo Tequila
  • 2 12-ounce cans evaporated milk
  • 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • 3/4 cup smooth pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground canela or true cinnamon
  • Pinch ground nutmeg
  • Pinch ground cloves
  • Ice to serve

Instructions

  • Place the tequila, evaporated milk, condensed milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, canela or cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in the blender and puree until smooth. Transfer to a pitcher, cover and refrigerate until chilled.
  • Alternatively, you may pour directly over ice cubes or add some ice cubes to your blender and make it a frappé! In any case, serve very cold.

Notes

Torito de Calabaza y Canela

Chilorio Sincronizadas

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Chilorio Sincronizadas
Print Recipe
4.67 from 6 votes

Chilorio Sincronizadas

Chilorio Sincronizadas recipe from Pati's Mexican Table Season 8, Episode 9 "Mocorito, The Land of ChilorioMocorito, The Land of Chilorio"
Prep Time0 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Course: Antojos
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Avocado, cheese, chilorio, flour tortillas, Quesadilla, sincronizada, tortillas
Servings: 2 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 4 flour tortillas homemade or store-bought
  • 1/2 cup shredded melty cheese like Asadero, quesadilla, Oaxaca, or Monterey Jack
  • 1/2 cup Sinaloa Style Chilorio
  • 1 teaspoon chilorio fat or vegetable oil
  • Ripe avocado slices to serve
  • Guacamole or salsa of your choice to serve

Instructions

  • Preheat large skillet or comal over medium-low heat for at least 5 minutes. Place two of the flour tortillas on the heated skillet or comal and top each with a 1/4 cup of the cheese and 1/4 cup of the chilorio. Place the other two flour tortillas on top, and let them heat until the cheese starts to melt and the bottom tortillas begin to gently brown. Spread chilorio fat or vegetable oil on top of each, then flip and cook for another minute.
  • Transfer to plates and serve with slices of ripe avocado and the guacamole or salsa of your choice.

Notes

Sincronizadas de Chilorio

French Fries with Chiltepín Salt and Cotija

Posted on by Pati Jinich
French Fries with Chiltepín Salt and Cotija
Print Recipe
4.67 from 6 votes

French Fries with Chiltepín Salt and Cotija

French Fries with Chiltepín Salt and Cotija recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 8, Episode 10 “Surfside Eats”
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: chiltepín chiles, cotija cheese, fries, ketchup, lime, potatoes, tartar sauce
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • Vegetable or peanut oil for frying
  • 4 russet potatoes washed and scrubbed
  • 1 teaspoon dried chiltepín chiles
  • 1 tablespoon kosher or sea salt
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup grated Cotija cheese
  • Habanero Tartar Sauce or ketchup for serving

Instructions

  • Fill a large Dutch oven or casserole a little less than halfway with oil. Place over medium heat and bring to 325°F degrees — or test by dropping in a small piece of potato, if the oil bubbles all around it, it’s ready.
  • While the oil is heating up, fill a large bowl with ice water. Place a cooling rack on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Cut the potatoes into 1/4-inch to 1/3-inch matchsticks. Add them to the ice water immediately after cutting, stirring occasionally to make sure the potatoes are not sticking to each other.
  • Remove about a quarter of the potatoes from the water. Pat dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Once dry, carefully add them to the hot oil and fry for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring with tongs or a spider to make sure they aren’t sticking to each other. The fries should start to look creamy and matte in color. If they begin to brown, take them out. Transfer the fries to the baking sheet with the cooling rack and repeat the process with the remaining potatoes.
  • When all the potatoes have been fried and transferred to the baking sheet with the rack, raise the heat of the oil to 375°F to 400°F, or raise the heat under the casserole to medium-high.
  • While the oil is heating, crush the chiltepín chiles and mix with the salt, lime zest, a few cracks of black pepper, and the Cotija cheese. Set aside.
  • Once the oil is ready, add the fries back into the oil in 4 batches. Cook each batch for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown. Transfer the fries back to the baking sheet with the rack.
  • If you are not going to eat immediately, keep warm in a 250°F oven. Just before serving, toss the finished fries in the cheese mixture until coated. Serve with habanero tartar sauce and/or ketchup.

Notes

Papas Fritas con Sal de Chiltepín y Queso Cotija

Chocolate Dipped Orejas

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Orejas
Print Recipe
4.50 from 6 votes

Chocolate Dipped Orejas

Chocolate Dipped Orejas recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 8, Episode 8 “El Chepe, Railway to the Past”
Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: canela, Chocolate, cinnamon, cookies, pati’s mexican table, puff pastry
Servings: 40 orejas approximately
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground canela or true cinnamon
  • 1 large pinch of kosher or sea salt
  • All-purpose flour for dusting the countertop and rolling pin
  • 1 recipe Easy Homemade Puff Pastry
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces dark chocolate chopped, or chocolate chips
  • Rainbow sprinkles optional

Instructions

  • Place racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven and preheat to 425°Line 4 baking sheets with parchment paper (or cook in batches).
  • Mix the sugar, cinnamon, and salt together in a bowl.
  • Sprinkle a light coating of flour on your countertop, then spread 1 cup of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, right where the puff pastry will go. Place the puff pastry in the center of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Lightly flour your rolling pin and roll the puff pastry out into a large rectangle, about 12-by-26-inches with a 1/4-inch thickness, adding a bit of flour as needed while you roll. Sprinkle the top with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  • Mark a line horizontally across the center of the puff pastry with a knife or ruler, without cutting all the way through. Roll the bottom of the puff pastry toward the center line, creating a layered spiral. Repeat with the top of the puff pastry, rolling in toward the center line, then press both rolls towards the center. The shape should resemble a pretzel.
  • Cut in half horizontally, across the two rolls, and wrap in plastic wrap. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Scrape any leftover cinnamon-sugar mixture onto a small plate.
  • Slice the chilled rolls into 1/2-inch slices. Dip both sides of slices in the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture and place on a baking sheet, making sure to leave about an inch between the slices.
  • Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, then remove from the oven, flip the orejas, and return to the oven (swapping the baking sheet that was on top with the bottom). Bake for 10 to 12 minutes more, until both sides are golden brown. Transfer to a metal cooling rack and cool completely.
  • While the orejas are cooling, bring the heavy cream to a simmer in a small pot. Place the chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl and pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. If using rainbow sprinkles, place them on a small plate.
  • Dip the tops of the orejas in the chocolate. If using rainbow sprinkles, lightly press the chocolate-dipped side into the sprinkles and return to the rack. Repeat with about half of the remaining cookies, leaving some plain, some chocolate dipped, and some dipped and with sprinkles.
  • Note: If you do not want to bake all of them at once, you may store the rolled oreja dough tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for a couple days, or freeze in a tight plastic bag for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Notes

Orejas con Chocolate

Texas Caviar

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Texas Caviar
Print Recipe
4.43 from 7 votes

Texas Caviar

Texas Caviar recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 8, Episode 3 “South by South of the Border with Vivian Howard”
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Antojos, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: black eyed peas, brown sugar, field peas, oregano, parsley, scallions, serrano chiles, Tomatoes
Servings: 4 cups
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon light brown sugar
  • 2 cups dried field peas or black eyed peas cooked, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup small-diced cocktail tomatoes plus 1/4 cup of their liquid*
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
  • 1 serrano chile stemmed and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped oregano
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, gently stir together the ingredients. Serve right away, or let the caviar marinate refrigerated overnight or up to 3 days before serving. Serve at room temperature with chips, endive, celery, or as a side.
  • *Note: If you don’t have cocktail tomatoes and would still like to make this caviar, marinate 1 cup of quartered cherry tomatoes in 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon salt for 30 minutes.

Notes

Caviar Texano, recipe courtesy of Vivian Howard

Homemade Horchata

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Horchata
Print Recipe
4.63 from 8 votes

Homemade Horchata

Homemade Horchata recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 8, Episode 6 “El Fuerte, Magic Town”
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: canela, ceylon, cinnamon, horchata, milk, pati’s mexican table, rice
Servings: 8 1/4 cups approximately
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

  • 2 cups white rice
  • 1 stick canela ceylon or true cinnamon, broken into pieces
  • 3 cups boiling hot water
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup sugar

Instructions

  • Place the rice and cinnamon in a heatproof bowl and cover with the hot water. Let sit anywhere from 2 to 8 hours.
  • When ready to puree the mixture, add the milk and sugar to the rice mixture and stir well. Place in a blender, in batches, and completely puree. Strain into a pitcher as you move along. Serve over ice filled glasses and/or store in the refrigerator.

Notes

Horchata Casera

Café Horchata

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Cafe Horchata
Print Recipe
5 from 7 votes

Café Horchata

Café Horchata recipe from Pati’s Mexican Table Season 8, Episode 6 “El Fuerte, Magic Town”
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: canela, ceylon, cinnamon, coffee, espresso, horchata, milk, pati’s mexican table, rice
Servings: 1 serving
Author: Pati Jinich

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Pour horchata into a glass filled with the ice. Pour in the espresso, stir and drink!

Notes

Horchata con Café

Grandma Hill’s Hoecakes

Posted on by Pati Jinich
Grandma Hill's Hoecakes
Print Recipe