Stewed Quelites with Nopales and Cheese

Easy Recipe for Stewed Quelites with Nopales and Fresh Cheese

Stewed quelites with nopales and fresh cheese are a vibrant example of the richness of traditional Mexican cuisine. This dish combines fresh and healthy ingredients, offering an authentic and comforting flavor that is perfect for the Lenten season or any special occasion.

Preparation Time for Stewed Quelites

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 15 minutes
• Total: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 people
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients for Stewed Quelites with Nopales and Fresh Cheese

• 4 cups of quelites (papalo, quintoniles, purslane, or your preference)
• 1 cup of nopales cut into strips
• 1/2 chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
• 1 serrano or cuaresmeño chili, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 cup crumbled fresh cheese
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Utensils Needed to Prepare the Recipe

• Medium pot for cooking nopales
• Large frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Strainer
• Serving dish

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Preparation of the Nopales

1. In a pot with water and salt, boil the nopales for 5-7 minutes until they change color and release their slime.
2. Rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking and remove the slime, then set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large skillet, heat the oil or lard over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until golden and fragrant.

Incorporation of Tomato and Chili

1. Add the chopped tomato and chili (if you decide to use it), and cook for a few minutes until the tomato softens and forms a light sauce.

Mixing the Quelites and Nopales

1. Add the cooked quelites and nopales to the pan. Mix the ingredients well and let them cook for about 5 minutes, or until the quelites wilt and all the flavors meld together.

Finishing and Seasoning

1. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Serve hot and sprinkle with crumbled fresh cheese before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Stewed Quelites Recipe

• Variety of quelites: Use the quelites you like best or that are available to you; each type adds a unique flavor to the dish.
• Fresh cheese: Make sure to use good quality fresh cheese to enhance the flavor and texture of the stew.
• No sliminess: Rinsing the nopales well after cooking ensures they don't have a slimy texture, improving the consistency of the dish.
• Vegan option: For a completely vegan version, omit the fresh cheese or substitute it with vegan cheese.

Accompaniment Options for Stewed Quelites

Quelites stewed with nopales and fresh cheese combine wonderfully with:

• Corn tortillas
• White or Mexican red rice
• Pot beans or refried beans
• Green sauce or red
• Fresh tomato and avocado salad

Approximate Nutritional Information for the Recipe (per serving)

The recipe for stewed quelites with nopales and fresh cheese is a delicious and nutritious option that highlights the value of traditional Mexican ingredients. Its preparation is simple and quick, making it an excellent choice for a healthy and flavorful meal.

The use of quelites, a very common edible leafy plant in Mexico, along with nopales, adds a nutrient-rich and flavorful dimension to this dish. Crumbled fresh cheese provides a creamy touch that balances the flavors and textures.

Frequently Asked Questions about Stewed Quelites

Conclusion: A Healthy and Nutrient-Rich Dish

The recipe for stewed quelites with nopales and fresh cheese is an excellent way to incorporate more fresh and local vegetables into your diet. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing an abundance of essential vitamins and minerals. Its preparation is easy and quick, ideal for those meals where you're looking for something healthy without sacrificing flavor.

Quelites and nopales combine perfectly, creating a dish that is both light and satisfying. This stew is a versatile option that you can serve as a vegetarian main course or as a side dish in a larger meal. Enjoy this culinary gem full of tradition and freshness!