Ingredients

1/4 cup butter
1 1/4 cups finely chopped onions
4 cloves garlic , minced
2 cups frozen corn kernels
salt & freshly ground black pepper
1 bunch fresh cilantro , stemmed and chopped
8 mild hatch chiles , seeded and deveined , stems trimmed but left intact ( or Poblano chiles )
8 8 ounces goat cheese or 8 ounces monterey jack cheese
2 cups sour cream or 2 cups creme fraiche
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese ( about 8 oz )
Baked Hatch Chile Rellenos is a mouth-watering Mexican dish usually made with poblano chiles. The recipe has a traditional place as it was first introduced by the Spanish into Mexico, and the dish remains a popular tradition. It is a vegetarian dish, and cheese provides a smoky taste to this stuffed pepper. Corn kernels and cilantro add a dash of crunchiness and tanginess to the recipe. This recipe is loved by many and can be served as an appetizer or side dish.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375°F.
2.In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add onions and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3.Add frozen corn and cook until it is heated through. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper as per your taste.
4.Mix in the chopped cilantro and set aside the skillet.
5.Fill each pepper with a layer of cheese (goat cheese or monterey jack) and a layer of corn mixture, leaving some space at the top.
6.Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
7.In a separate bowl, mix sour cream or creme fraiche with shredded cheddar cheese. Spread this mixture on top of the peppers.
8.Bake for about 30 minutes, until the chile rellenos are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

PROS

Baked Hatch Chile Rellenos are healthier than the traditional deep-fried version and can be enjoyed without the guilt of excessive calories.
Also, a great option for vegetarians due to cheese stuffing.

Adding corn and cilantro enhances the nutritional value of the recipe.

CONS

One needs to take care while preparing chile rellenos as they can be a bit tricky to fill and people often complain of breaking of the peppers while stuffing.

Peppers used in the dish may vary in their spiciness.
So take proper care while picking them.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Baked Hatch Chile Rellenos are a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Hatch chiles contain ample quantities of vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin A. Plus, Hatch chiles have compounds that reduce inflammation, fight cancer, and boost heart health.
Cilantro contains antioxidants and has been studied for its benefits for digestion and blood sugar regulation.
Corn is a decent source of fiber and antioxidants.

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