Enchiladas Potosinas Recipe

Enchiladas Potosinas are a vibrant dish hailing from the Mexican state of San Luis Potosí. Known for their distinctive red tortillas filled with flavorful cheese and sometimes meat, these enchiladas bring together tradition and taste in a way that’s comforting yet festive. They’re often served during celebrations, but their simplicity makes them perfect for a weeknight dinner too.

What makes this recipe stand out is the dough itself—masa is blended with dried chile peppers, giving the tortillas a rich color and smoky flavor. Filled with cheese and folded like turnovers, these enchiladas are then fried until lightly crisp, creating a satisfying contrast of textures in every bite.

Recipe Overview

1. Name: Enchiladas Potosinas

2. Description: Corn masa tortillas infused with chile guajillo, stuffed with cheese, and lightly fried until crisp. Traditionally served with crema, lettuce, and salsa.

3. Prep Time: 25 minutes

4. Cook Time: 20 minutes

5. Total Time: 45 minutes

6. Servings: 4 portions (about 8 enchiladas)

Ingredients

• 2 cups masa harina (corn flour for tortillas)

• 1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

• 4 dried guajillo chiles (stemmed and deseeded)

• 1 garlic clove

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup queso fresco (or Mexican melting cheese)

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

• Garnishes: shredded lettuce, Mexican crema, sliced avocado, salsa, pickled onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the chile paste: Soak guajillo chiles in hot water until softened. Blend with garlic and a little soaking water to form a smooth paste.

2. Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine masa harina, salt, and chile paste. Slowly add warm water until a soft but pliable dough forms.

3. Shape tortillas: Divide dough into small balls. Flatten each into a tortilla using a tortilla press or rolling pin.

4. Fill and fold: Place cheese in the center, fold tortilla in half like a turnover, and press edges to seal.

5. Cook: Heat oil in a skillet and fry enchiladas on both sides until lightly golden and crisp.

6. Serve: Top with lettuce, crema, salsa, and avocado slices for an authentic touch.

Variations and Alterations

Enchiladas Potosinas are versatile, and you can easily adapt them:

• Add shredded chicken or beef inside for a heartier version.

• Use spicy chiles de árbol for a bolder kick.

• Bake instead of frying for a lighter preparation.

• Try different cheeses such as Oaxaca or Monterey Jack if queso fresco is not available.

A Flavorful Finale

“A Bite of San Luis Potosí in Every Tortilla”
Enchiladas Potosinas are more than a dish—they’re a taste of history and tradition. Whether you serve them for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or festive occasions, their striking color and bold flavor are sure to impress.

Bring this authentic Mexican recipe into your kitchen and enjoy the perfect balance of smoky chile, creamy cheese, and crisp tortilla.