How to Make Huevos Rancheros with Hatch Green Chile

Huevos Rancheros is a classic Mexican breakfast dish that combines multiple flavor layers into a hearty and delicious meal. While traditional recipes often involve spicy red salsa, this article explores an exciting twist by incorporating Hatch Green Chile into the salsa ranchera for a unique and flavorful experience. This guide will walk you through the process of preparing a mouthwatering Huevos Rancheros that not only boasts the traditional flavors but also introduces a new level of earthiness from the green chiles.

The Role of Hatch Chile in Salsa Ranchera

The Hatch Green Chile, named after the Hatch Valley in New Mexico, is a vibrant, mildly spicy chile with a distinct sweet and smoky flavor. Traditional salsa ranchera uses jalape?os or serrano chiles, which provide a milder heat. However, Hatch Green Chile is an excellent alternative that can be used to create a salsa with a unique flavor profile. This chile imparts a subtle sweetness and a slight smokiness, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a bit more complexity in their dishes.

Ingredients for Salsa Ranchera with Hatch Chile

1 large red tomato or 2 medium ones / 1 jitomate grande o 2 jitomates medianos 1/2 Hatch Chile / 1 chile Hatch 1 jalapeo chile or 2 serrano chiles / 1 chile jalapeo o 2 chiles serrano 1 small clove garlic peeled and chopped / 1 diente de ajo pequeo pelado y picado 1 small white onion / 1 cebolla blanca picada Water sufficient to cover the tomatoes and chiles / Agua suficiente para cubrir los jitomates y los chiles Salt to taste / Sal al gusto

Preparation of Salsa Ranchera

Begin by preparing the tomatoes and chiles. You can either use a Hatch Green Chile or a combination of jalape?os and serranos. If you're using a Hatch Chile, half of a large green chile will suffice.

Place the tomatoes, chiles, jalape?os (or serranos), garlic, and chopped onion in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the ingredients.

Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until the chiles and tomatoes are soft, typically between 12-15 minutes.

Once cooked, remove from heat and carefully drain the water. Place the tomatoes and chiles in a blender. Add the garlic and chopped onion, then blend until the mixture is smooth.

Transfer the blended mixture to a container and season with salt to taste. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a little water from the cooking liquid.

Assembling Huevos Rancheros

While the salsa is cooling, fry eggs on a skillet to your desired level of doneness. For a classic texture, a runny yolk is perfect.

Warm corn tortillas over a hot stove or in the microwave.

Place a fried egg on each tortilla, then spoon the prepared salsa over the top. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

This traditional Mexican dish is best enjoyed with a side of refried beans, avocado, and fresh salsa. The warmth of the tortilla paired with the rich, savory eggs and the subtle complexity of the Hatch Green Chile salsa creates a meal that is as comforting as it is flavorful. By substituting your salsa ranchera with a Hatch Green Chile version, you'll add a robust new character to your Huevos Rancheros, making it a standout on any menu.