Introduction:
Huevos Rancheros, a beloved Mexican breakfast, offers a hearty, flavorful start to the day. Traditionally served in rural Mexican homes, this dish combines crispy tortillas, sunny-side-up eggs, and a vibrant tomato-based salsa, typically accompanied by refried beans, avocado, and fresh cilantro. This dish embodies the rich, rustic flavors of Mexican cuisine and is perfect for anyone seeking a savory, filling breakfast. With its contrasting textures and fresh ingredients, Huevos Rancheros is both a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 small corn tortillas
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup refried beans (homemade or canned)
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Optional toppings: crumbled queso fresco, sour cream, or salsa verde
Instructions:
- Prepare the salsa:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, jalapeño, and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cumin, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the salsa thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Cook the tortillas:
- In a separate skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Fry the corn tortillas one at a time until crispy and golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- Fry the eggs:
- In the same skillet, fry the eggs sunny-side-up, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny, about 3-4 minutes.
- Assemble the dish:
- Spread a layer of refried beans on each tortilla. Top with the fried eggs and spoon the warm salsa over the top.
- Garnish with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and optional toppings like queso fresco or sour cream.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish. Pair with a refreshing drink, such as a glass of fresh orange juice or a Mexican agua fresca.
Health Notes:
- Huevos Rancheros is a protein-rich meal, especially when paired with beans. For a lighter version, you can bake the tortillas instead of frying and use less oil in the salsa. To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium beans or make homemade refried beans. Adding avocado provides healthy fats, while the fresh salsa is full of antioxidants.
Serving Suggestions:
- Huevos Rancheros is best served warm and fresh, with sides such as rice, a small salad, or extra beans. It’s also a great brunch option alongside Mexican-style beverages like coffee or agua de jamaica (hibiscus tea).
Tips:
- Tortilla texture: If you prefer softer tortillas, warm them without frying, or lightly char them over an open flame for added flavor.
- Customize the salsa: For extra heat, add more jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also make a green salsa with tomatillos for a variation on the classic.
- Egg cooking: For a more indulgent version, you can top the eggs with a sprinkle of cheese during the last minute of cooking and allow it to melt before serving.
