Enchiladas Suizas: Wrapping in the Richness of Mexican Cuisine
Enchiladas Suizas is not a recipe but an experience. This rich, creamy version of the classic enchilada captures the heart of Mexican flavor blended with the taste of its Swiss-influenced twist, adored as much by foodies to home cooks. Savory roasted chicken sits pretty with sharp tomatillo sauce and creamy cheese nestled inside soft tortillas—all these combinations beautifully bring joy to every mouth.
Whether you are a lover of Mexican cuisine, looking for the next dish to cook in your kitchen, or a new home cook trying to cook the perfect meal to impress your guests, this guide will walk you through the history, basic elements, and even give you a step-by-step recipe on how to prepare the ultimate Enchiladas Suizas in your kitchen.
What are Enchiladas Suizas?
Enchiladas Suizas, or “Swiss enchiladas,” for those not yet introduced to this culinary wonder, is an indulgent twist on traditional enchiladas but creamy and rich. Most enchiladas drenched in red or green chili sauce, Suizas stands alone with its cheesy sauce made from tomatillos, cream, and melted cheese. The word “Suizas” from Swiss defines the abundance of dairy used in this dish which originated from Switzerland’s mythical affinity for cream and cheese.
This is that comfort food icon with Mexican roots now famous all over the world because of its rich flavor profiles and satiating textures in every single bite. Every morsel is a perfect intermixing of tanginess and creaminess, spiciness which is just irksome.
Origins of Enchiladas Suizas
Like most of Mexican cuisine, it flowed easily into the blend of local influences with foreign influence. Although enchiladas originated in pre-Hispanic Mexico, the addition of this creamy cheese sauce layered in a Swiss-style manner sets the stage for how Mexican cuisine has incorporated foreign elements into wholly new and unforgettable dishes.
Now, this comforting plate of comfort food is served in thousands of restaurants from Mexico to all around the world. You do not, however, need to book a flight to enjoy this dish. With this in mind, learning to make this at home may more deeply prepare you for its flavor and heritage.
Key Ingredients for Enchiladas Suizas
Corn Tortillas
Traditionally, enchiladas are made with soft corn tortillas. The tortillas are very earthy and remain soft enough to hold their filling as well as to absorb the sauce. Flour tortillas can be substituted, but traditionally, corn is used.
Chicken Stuffing
Shredded roasted chicken is typically used as the filling for Enchiladas Suizas. However, rotisserie chickens found in most supermarkets can be used as a shortcut. Beef and pork may also be used or sautéed vegetables if you want a vegetarian version.
Tomatillo Sauce
It’s a pretty sour and zesty sauce from the base ingredient of tomatillos. Everything finds itself coming together in a great green, tangy, and spicy sauce: the cilantro, garlic, lime juice, jalapeños, and tomatillos.
Butter and Cheese
That makes Suizas “Swiss.” This bathes the sauce in cream and cheese, which adds a tang to the dish so it has a rich, luscious feel but uses grated cheese: Chihuahua, Monterrey Jack, or mozzarella to add a bubbly, golden crust.
Ingredients
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 pounds shredded roasted chicken
- 1 pound tomatillos, husked and rinsed (about 10)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 2 jalapeños, seeded if desired—or 1 for less heat
- ½ cup cilantro leaves
- ½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Chihuahua, Monterrey Jack, or mozzarella)
- 1 tsp vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tortillas
Cook the corn tortillas in a pan or fry them with just a little oil until soft; now they won’t break when rolled easily.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
Add the Suizas topping.
Step 3: Pour the Sauce
Pour the remaining tomatillo sauce infused with Mexican crema all over the enchiladas.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top of them.
Step 5: Bake them to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven until golden and bubbly, cheese is hot (about 20 minutes).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Take them out of the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, chopped onion, etc. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Enchiladas Suizas!
Tips to Prepare Excellent Enchiladas Suizas
- Fresh Ingredients: Tomatillos and fresh cilantro make a huge difference in flavor. There is no excuse to use canned substitutions unless absolutely necessary.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Chihuahua is traditional, feel free to experiment using Gouda or Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
- Make it Meatless: It can really turn into an amazing meal by substituting with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or black beans.
- Double the Recipe: Enchiladas Suizas freeze very well! Prepare a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal down the road.
Elevate Mexican Food to a Higher Level
It’s that sort of magical dish that binds people together—be it to dine with family or enjoy a comforting, creamy meal for itself. This recipe never goes wrong. Understand the origins; master the main ingredients and finally follow our instructions step-by-step to create an authentic taste of Mexico that impresses.
Take your love for Mexican food to the next level with this follow-up recipe on classic dishes. Feeling inspired? Share your homemade Enchiladas Suizas with us on social media—tag us!