What To Know
- Some argue that covering the dish during baking creates a steamy environment that softens the tortillas and helps the cheese melt evenly.
- However, be sure to uncover them for the last few minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown and develop a crispy crust.
- You can try adding a small amount of water to the bottom of the baking dish before adding the enchiladas.
The aroma of simmering enchiladas is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. But when it comes to cooking these beloved Mexican dishes, one question always pops up: Do you cover enchiladas when cooking? The answer, as with many things in the culinary world, is not so simple. It depends!
The Great Enchilada Cover Debate
There are strong opinions on both sides of the enchilada cover debate. Some argue that covering the dish during baking creates a steamy environment that softens the tortillas and helps the cheese melt evenly. Others believe that leaving the enchiladas uncovered allows the cheese to brown beautifully and develop a crispy crust.
The Case for Covering Enchiladas
Proponents of covering enchiladas during baking cite several benefits:
- Softer Tortillas: Covering enchiladas traps moisture inside the baking dish, helping the tortillas soften and become more pliable. This is especially important if you’re using corn tortillas, which can be a bit more resistant to moisture.
- Evenly Melted Cheese: The steam created by covering the enchiladas helps melt the cheese evenly and prevents it from becoming dry or burnt.
- Moist Filling: Covering the dish helps keep the filling moist and prevents it from drying out during baking.
The Case for Uncovering Enchiladas
Those who prefer to leave enchiladas uncovered argue that it leads to a superior final product:
- Crispy Cheese: Uncovering the enchiladas allows the cheese to brown and develop a crispy crust. This adds a delicious textural element to the dish.
- Enhanced Flavor: The browning process also intensifies the flavor of the cheese and the filling.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The golden-brown cheese looks more appealing and inviting than a pale, un-browned cheese.
The Verdict: It Depends!
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to cover enchiladas during baking comes down to personal preference and the specific recipe you’re using.
Consider these factors when making your decision:
- Tortilla Type: If you’re using corn tortillas, covering the enchiladas might be more beneficial to soften them. If you’re using flour tortillas, they are generally more pliable and may not need covering.
- Filling: If your filling is particularly dry, covering the enchiladas can help keep it moist. If it’s a wet filling, leaving them uncovered might be preferable to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Cheese Type: If you’re using a cheese that melts easily, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, you might not need to cover the enchiladas. If you’re using a cheese that tends to be dry, like Colby or Swiss, covering them might help it melt more evenly.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Enchiladas
Regardless of whether you choose to cover or uncover your enchiladas, here are a few tips for achieving the perfect dish:
- Use quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will make a big difference in the taste of your enchiladas. Use fresh, flavorful ingredients and don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and cheeses.
- Pre-heat your oven: Preheating the oven ensures that the enchiladas cook evenly and quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Give the enchiladas some space to cook evenly and prevent them from steaming.
- Check for doneness: The enchiladas are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly and the filling is heated through.
The Enchilada Cover Conclusion: Embrace the Flexibility
The beauty of cooking is that there is no one right way to do things. When it comes to covering enchiladas, the most important thing is to experiment and find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to try different methods and see what results you prefer.
Top Questions Asked
1. Can I cover enchiladas halfway through baking?
Yes, you can cover them halfway through baking if you want to soften the tortillas and melt the cheese more evenly. However, be sure to uncover them for the last few minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown and develop a crispy crust.
2. What if I don’t want to cover my enchiladas but I’m worried about the cheese drying out?
You can try adding a small amount of water to the bottom of the baking dish before adding the enchiladas. This will create a little steam that will help keep the cheese moist.
3. What if I don’t have a baking dish with a lid?
If you don’t have a baking dish with a lid, you can use aluminum foil to cover the enchiladas. Just make sure to leave some space between the foil and the enchiladas to allow for air circulation.
4. Can I cover enchiladas made with different fillings?
Yes, you can cover enchiladas made with different fillings, but be aware that some fillings might require more time to cook than others. If you’re using a filling that is particularly dense, you might want to cover the enchiladas for a longer period of time to ensure that it is cooked through.
5. What are some good toppings for enchiladas?
Some popular toppings for enchiladas include sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped onions, cilantro, and shredded lettuce. You can also add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cheese.
