Enchiladas are a wonderful dish that many people love because they are so versatile. You can change the fillings to suit your taste, making them a great option for different diets and flavor preferences. Traditional enchiladas are typically filled with chicken, beef, or cheese, but there’s so much more you can do. From vegetarian and vegan options to seafood, breakfast, and even international flavors, enchiladas can take on a whole new life. In this article, we will explore what else you can put in enchiladas to make them more exciting, delicious, and creative.
Traditional Enchilada Fillings: What’s Expected?
Most people are familiar with traditional enchilada fillings like chicken, beef, and cheese. These options are classics for a reason. Chicken enchiladas are usually made with shredded chicken that has been seasoned with spices like cumin, garlic, and chili powder. The chicken is then rolled into tortillas and topped with sauce, such as salsa verde or red enchilada sauce. This creates a dish that is flavorful and filling.
Beef enchiladas are another popular choice. Ground beef is often cooked with onions, garlic, and spices, then combined with beans or cheese. You can also use shredded beef for a richer texture. Either way, beef enchiladas are hearty and satisfying.
Cheese enchiladas are a simple yet delicious option. These are especially great for vegetarians or people looking for a meatless meal. Cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco, is rolled into tortillas and baked with sauce until melted and bubbly.
These traditional fillings are loved by many, but there are so many more exciting ingredients to explore. Let’s dive into some creative alternatives to spice up your enchilada game.
Vegetarian and Vegan Filling Options
For those who prefer plant-based meals or are simply looking to add more vegetables to their diet, vegetarian and vegan fillings offer endless possibilities. One popular choice is sweet potatoes. Roasted sweet potatoes provide a sweet and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with spicy sauces like mole or red enchilada sauce. To make the dish even more hearty, you can add black beans to the sweet potatoes. The beans provide extra protein and balance out the sweetness of the potatoes.
Another classic vegetarian filling is black beans and corn. Black beans are rich in protein and fiber, making them a filling and nutritious option. When paired with corn and roasted peppers, this combination creates a flavorful, satisfying enchilada filling. Season the mixture with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic to enhance the flavor even more.
For a richer, more “meaty” texture, try using mushrooms. Sautéed mushrooms, such as portobello or cremini, give the enchiladas a savory, umami flavor. You can pair mushrooms with spinach or roasted bell peppers for a colorful and nutrient-rich filling. Mushrooms work especially well with heartier sauces like mole or tomato-based enchilada sauces.
If you’re looking for a creamy filling, consider using spinach and ricotta. This combination makes for a light yet satisfying enchilada. Spinach adds a fresh, vibrant taste, while the ricotta provides creaminess. You can top these enchiladas with a green tomatillo sauce or salsa verde for a refreshing contrast to the rich filling.
Quinoa and vegetables are also great for creating a healthy and tasty filling. Quinoa adds protein and a unique texture, while vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions offer crunch and flavor. This filling is perfect for those looking to create a lighter, healthier version of enchiladas.
Meat Alternatives: For Those Looking to Reduce Meat Intake
Even if you’re not fully vegetarian, you might be looking for meat alternatives to include in your enchiladas. Luckily, there are many delicious substitutes that can offer the same hearty feel as meat while being plant-based.
One popular choice is plant-based meats. Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods have created products that closely mimic the texture and flavor of ground beef or chicken. You can cook these plant-based meats just like their real counterparts, and they work wonderfully in enchiladas. Season them with your favorite spices, and add beans or vegetables to round out the filling.
Another fantastic meat alternative is lentils. Lentils are budget-friendly, easy to cook, and packed with protein and fiber. When seasoned well, they provide a similar texture to ground beef and absorb flavors beautifully. Combine lentils with spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder for a flavorful filling.
Jackfruit is another exciting option for those looking to reduce meat intake. Jackfruit has a texture similar to pulled pork, making it a perfect substitute in enchiladas. The fruit itself is mild in flavor, so it absorbs the taste of whatever seasonings you add. Try pairing jackfruit with a smoky chipotle sauce or a tangy tomatillo sauce for a delicious plant-based enchilada.
Chickpeas are also a great meat alternative. They provide a firm, slightly crunchy texture when roasted, and their neutral flavor allows them to pair well with various sauces. Roast chickpeas with spices like garlic, cumin, and paprika for a tasty, protein-packed filling.
Seafood Enchiladas: A Unique Twist
For a more unique enchilada experience, why not try using seafood as a filling? Shrimp enchiladas are a wonderful way to bring a fresh, ocean-inspired flavor to the table. Sauté shrimp with garlic, lime juice, and cilantro for a simple yet flavorful filling. Pair the shrimp with a creamy sauce, like a chipotle cream or tomatillo sauce, to balance out the flavors.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can also use crab or lobster in your enchiladas. These seafood options add a touch of luxury to the dish. Crab or lobster enchiladas work best with light, creamy sauces that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the seafood. A mild cheese sauce or a lemony cream sauce is a great choice.
For a lighter option, try using flaky white fish, like tilapia or cod. Fish pairs well with salsa verde or a tangy tomatillo sauce. Season the fish with lime, cumin, and garlic before baking it to create a flavorful filling that is both healthy and delicious.
Scallops are another seafood option to consider. Their tender, buttery texture makes them an excellent choice for enchiladas. Scallops pair beautifully with rich sauces like mole or a light cream sauce. Try adding some roasted vegetables, like bell peppers or onions, to complement the scallops’ flavor.
Seafood enchiladas are perfect for those looking to try something different and add a touch of elegance to a classic dish. They’re also a great option for those who want to enjoy a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor.
Breakfast Enchiladas: A New Way to Start the Day
Enchiladas don’t have to be limited to lunch or dinner. You can turn them into a hearty breakfast by using fillings like eggs, cheese, and sausage. Eggs and cheese are the classic breakfast enchilada filling. Scramble the eggs with onions, bell peppers, and shredded cheese, then roll them up in tortillas and top with salsa verde or red sauce. These enchiladas are a great way to start your day with plenty of protein and flavor.
To add a little more substance, consider using sausage or bacon. These fillings bring a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the eggs and cheese. Cook the sausage or bacon before adding it to the tortillas, and top the enchiladas with a mild cheese sauce or salsa for extra flavor.
For a healthier take on breakfast enchiladas, fill them with vegetables. Bell peppers, spinach, onions, and mushrooms are all great options that add flavor and nutrition to your meal. You can even add black beans for extra protein and fiber.
If you want something a little heartier, try using chorizo and potatoes. The spiciness of the chorizo pairs well with the creamy texture of the potatoes. You can roast the potatoes before adding them to the tortillas for extra flavor and crispiness. Top the enchiladas with salsa or a mild cheese sauce for a satisfying breakfast dish.
Breakfast enchiladas are a great way to switch up your morning routine. They’re filling, flavorful, and can be customized to fit your preferences. Whether you prefer eggs and cheese, sausage and potatoes, or vegetables, there’s a breakfast enchilada combination for everyone.
International Flavors in Enchiladas
One of the best things about enchiladas is their ability to take on different flavors from around the world. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding international-inspired fillings to your enchiladas for a unique twist.
For example, you can give your enchiladas an Indian-inspired flavor by using curried chickpeas and potatoes. This filling is rich in spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander, giving the dish a warm and earthy flavor. Pair the filling with a yogurt-based sauce or a coconut milk-based sauce to balance out the spices.
For a Mediterranean-inspired enchilada, try filling your tortillas with spinach, feta, and olives. The salty feta and briny olives add a bold flavor to the enchiladas, while the spinach adds a fresh, vibrant taste. Top these enchiladas with a light tomato sauce and sprinkle more feta on top for a delicious Mediterranean twist.
You can also take inspiration from Asian flavors by using teriyaki chicken or tofu as a filling. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce pairs well with the soft tortillas, creating a unique fusion dish. Add stir-fried vegetables, such as carrots, cabbage, and bell peppers, for extra crunch and flavor. Top the enchiladas with a light drizzle of chili sauce or hoisin sauce for a finishing touch.
Another fun option is to give your enchiladas an Italian twist. Fill the tortillas with ricotta, spinach, and mozzarella for a dish that’s reminiscent of lasagna. Use marinara sauce instead of salsa, and top with more mozzarella before baking. These enchiladas are cheesy, comforting, and perfect for fans of Italian cuisine.
The beauty of enchiladas is that they can be adapted to fit almost any flavor profile. By experimenting with different spices, sauces, and ingredients from various cultures, you can create a dish that’s completely unique and full of flavor.
Creative Sauces to Pair with Unique Fillings
Sauce is just as important as the filling when it comes to enchiladas. While traditional red and green sauces are delicious, there are many other sauces you can use to complement your creative fillings.
Mole sauce is a rich, complex sauce made from ingredients like chocolate, chiles, and spices. It pairs beautifully with bold fillings like jackfruit, beef, or mushrooms. Mole adds depth and warmth to any dish.
Salsa verde is a tangy, green sauce made from tomatillos, jalapeños, and cilantro. It works well with lighter fillings like chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. The acidity of the salsa verde brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the filling.
For a creamy option, try using a chipotle cream sauce. This smoky, slightly spicy sauce pairs well with seafood or chicken enchiladas. The creaminess of the sauce balances out the heat, creating a well-rounded dish.
Lastly, consider using tomatillo sauce. This bright, tangy sauce is perfect for lighter fillings like fish or roasted vegetables. Its zesty flavor adds a refreshing twist to the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What vegetables can I put in enchiladas?
There are many vegetables that work well in enchiladas. Common options include spinach, bell peppers, onions, zucchini, mushrooms, and roasted sweet potatoes. These vegetables add texture, flavor, and nutrition to your enchiladas.
Can I use seafood in enchiladas?
Yes, seafood is a great option for enchiladas. Shrimp, crab, lobster, and white fish all work well in this dish. Pair seafood fillings with lighter sauces like salsa verde or a mild cream sauce to let the flavors shine.
Are there vegan options for enchiladas?
Absolutely! Vegan fillings like black beans, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, tofu, and tempeh are all excellent choices. You can also find plant-based cheeses and sauces to make your enchiladas fully vegan.
How do I make breakfast enchiladas?
To make breakfast enchiladas, use fillings like scrambled eggs, cheese, sausage, or bacon. Roll the fillings into tortillas and top with salsa verde or a mild cheese sauce. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor.
What are some international-inspired enchilada fillings?
There are many ways to bring international flavors into your enchiladas. Try Indian-style curried chickpeas, Mediterranean-inspired feta and spinach, or even Italian-style ricotta and marinara. These global flavors can make your enchiladas truly unique.
Conclusion: Endless Possibilities for Enchilada Fillings
Enchiladas are one of the most versatile dishes you can make. When thinking about what else you can put in enchiladas, the possibilities are endless. From classic fillings like chicken and cheese to more adventurous options like jackfruit, seafood, and international flavors, there’s no limit to how creative you can get.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meat alternative, a flavorful vegetarian option, or even a breakfast version, enchiladas can be customized to suit any taste or dietary need. Experiment with different fillings, spices, and sauces to create your perfect enchilada dish.
So next time you’re craving enchiladas, don’t stick to the same old recipe. Try something new and exciting by incorporating unique ingredients and bold flavors. Your enchilada game will never be boring again!
Happy cooking and enjoy discovering your new favorite enchilada fillings!