Mexico By Food Enthusiasts · 6 min read

National Dish Mexico: Enchiladas Rojas (Recipe)

Rolled corn tortillas in red chilli sauce topped with cheese, onion and avocado

In this article

Meet Enchiladas Rojas, one of Mexico’s most beloved comfort dishes! Soft corn tortillas are wrapped around a savoury filling, then bathed in a vibrant, spicy red chilli sauce and finished with cheese, onion and creamy avocado. As colourful on the plate as it is rich in flavour, this is a dish that turns an everyday dinner into a celebration. Bring the warmth and bustle of a Mexican kitchen straight to your own table.

About Enchiladas Rojas

Enchiladas Rojas are a traditional Mexican dish that wins people over not only with their flavour but also with their bright, eye-catching presentation. These delicious tortillas are usually filled with cured meat, chicken or vegetables, then served in a punchy red chilli sauce. Originally from central and southern Mexico, they have grown over the past few decades into one of the most popular dishes in the country’s cuisine. The pairing of soft tortillas, a generous filling and a fiery sauce makes Enchiladas Rojas a genuine feast of flavours.

Ingredients (serves 1–2)

4 corn tortillas
200 g chicken (cooked and shredded)
150 g red chilli sauce
50 g cheese (grated)
1 small onion, chopped
1 avocado, sliced
Oil for frying

Shopping for the ingredients

To make Enchiladas Rojas you will need a handful of fresh, good-quality ingredients. Visit local markets or grocery shops to track down fresh tortillas and the best chillies you can find. When buying the chicken, choose a good-quality bird to guarantee the finest flavour. Fresh vegetables, especially the onions and avocados, make a real difference to the overall quality of the finished dish.

Preparing the dish

Preparing Enchiladas Rojas involves a few steps to make sure you end up with a delicious result. Start by warming the tortillas gently so they stay supple and do not tear. Get the filling ready by shredding the chicken and mixing it with the spices of your choice to give it more depth of flavour. Once everything is prepared you can begin filling the tortillas, which becomes very quick once you have done it a time or two.

Step-by-step instructions

Warm the corn tortillas in a pan for a few minutes until they are soft.
Fill each tortilla with a portion of chicken and roll it up.
Heat a little oil in a pan and add the filled tortillas.
Pour the red chilli sauce over the tortillas and let them simmer over low heat for 5–7 minutes.
Serve the Enchiladas Rojas with fresh onion, grated cheese and slices of avocado.

Gluten-free / lactose-free version

For a gluten-free version of Enchiladas Rojas you can use special gluten-free tortillas, which are widely available in supermarkets. Check the chilli sauce too, making sure it contains no gluten-bearing ingredients. To prepare a lactose-free version, swap in lactose-free cheese, or use a combination of avocado and lime juice as a creamy alternative. With these tweaks even people with food intolerances can enjoy these delicious enchiladas.

Tips for vegans and vegetarians

Vegan and vegetarian takes on Enchiladas Rojas are just as varied and tasty. In place of meat you can use a mix of crisp vegetables such as courgette, peppers and beans. To deepen the flavour, add tofu or seitan, both of which cover your protein needs beautifully. Don’t forget to check the chilli sauce carefully to make sure it is vegan, as some sauces can contain hidden animal products.

More tips and tricks

For the ultimate flavour experience, experiment with different ingredients and spices. Add smoked paprika or oregano to give the enchiladas a special touch. Fresh herbs such as coriander or parsley can also go in to intensify the aromas and make the dish more attractive on the plate. Take care not to heat the tortillas for too long, so they don’t crack when you fill them.

Adapting the recipe to your taste

The recipe for Enchiladas Rojas is easy to adapt to your own preferences. If you like it hotter, add more chillies or some fiery spices. For a milder result, stick to mild chilli varieties and adjust the sauce to suit. Experiment with different fillings to see what you enjoy most, whether that is chicken, vegetables or vegan alternatives — much like the flexible fillings you’ll find in Tacos de Papa.

Ingredient substitutions

When making Enchiladas Rojas, certain ingredients can easily be swapped out. Instead of traditional corn tortillas you can use wholemeal or even cauliflower tortillas to create a lighter, healthier version — the same idea behind Tortillas de Harina. If you cannot get hold of red chilli sauce, a good salsa or tomato sauce will give a similar flavour, just as it does in Frijoles Refritos. Substitutions like these keep the dish a tasty option, whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Drink pairing ideas

Choosing the right drink can lift the whole Enchiladas Rojas experience. Classic options include a Mexican beer or tequila, both of which stand up well to the spicy flavours. If you would rather skip the alcohol, try a homemade horchata or an agua fresca, refreshing choices that are perfectly matched to the food. These drinks round out the flavours of the dish and make for a thoroughly satisfying meal.

Serving and presentation ideas

To present Enchiladas Rojas at their best, use colourful plates that show off the dish’s vivid colours. Garnish the enchiladas with fresh herbs, chopped onion and slices of avocado to add colour and freshness. You can also drizzle the chilli sauce over the enchiladas in a deliberate pattern for an attractive finish. Don’t forget to scatter a little extra cheese over the finished enchiladas as you serve, to make the dish even more tempting.

A bit of history

The story of Enchiladas Rojas reaches back to the time of the Aztecs, who were already preparing forms of filled tortillas. The use of chillies as a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine can likewise be traced to the origins of this region. Over the centuries, enchilada recipes have continued to evolve, with each region developing its own variations and methods of preparation. Today Enchiladas Rojas are known and loved not only across Mexico but internationally too — a proud part of Mexican cuisine.

More recipe ideas

Summary: Enchiladas Rojas

Enchiladas Rojas are a delicious and hearty dish that you can easily make at home. With tender tortillas, a tasty filling and a punchy chilli sauce, they will delight your family and friends alike. Experiment with different ingredients and toppings to find your own personal touch. Let the flavours of Mexican cooking sweep you up, and enjoy this wonderful dish!