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When it comes to enjoying tasty and delicious meals, you will find that nothing compares to those Mexican food traditions passed down through the generations. One family favorite in my house has always been chicken enchiladas. Filled with good stuff, you will find this is easily adjusted to fit your own needs.

For instance, try using olive oil for a healthy addition. You will find the combination of seasonings are wonderful and actually have health benefits! You can use flour tortillas instead of the traditional corn. Better yet, you can also make your own for a whole knew flavor sensation. My favorite is the tomato and basil tortillas. Mm, mm, good!

Changing to suit your needs and tastes can make Mexican food traditions only a step away. Imagine family gatherings made easy when you bring something like the traditional chicken enchiladas below. Add cheese or remove the cilantro as it is needed to adjust for tastes. Anything is possible, and your taste buds will thank you.

Take a look at my favorite in Mexican food traditions'

Traditional Chicken Enchiladas

INGREDIENTS

For the sauce:

3 tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 tbsp. chili powder
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. ground oregano
Pinch of dried thyme
Pinch of black pepper
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
3 1/2 cups vegetable stock
1 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro
1 tsp. honey
1 tsp. fresh lime juice
1 tsp. salt

For the enchiladas:

1/2 cup minced onion
12 oz. cooked chicken breast, diced
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. chili powder
1 cup vegetable stock
8 corn tortillas
4 oz. low-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
4 oz. shredded green-leaf lettuce

PREPARATION

In large saut' pan combine flour with dry herbs and spices and cook over medium heat until golden brown. Add remaining ingredients for sauce and whisk to combine. Bring to boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer 45 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.

Lightly coat medium saut' pan with canola oil and saut' onion, chicken, oregano, and chili powder until chicken is lightly browned. Add vegetable stock and simmer until liquid has evaporated.

Preheat oven to 350'F. Soak 1 tortilla briefly in warm water; lay on flat surface, and spoon 3 tablespoons chicken filling inside one edge. Roll tightly and place in 8-by-8-inch baking pan. Repeat. Ladle sauce on top and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Bake 15 minutes or until cheese melts and sauce is bubbly. Garnish with lettuce. Or even try serving with salsa on the side. Serves 4.

PERSONAL NOTE

Serving with homemade salsa is a great idea. You can add the colors and flavors you want with each serving. Not only is this for aesthetic reasons. In fact, changing the ingredients in your homemade salsa is a great way to insure you get more of the taste combination you need for your favorite dishes.

When it comes to Mexican food traditions, you will find one recipe can start something beautiful. Enchiladas are a favorite in many households because they are so reliable and able to be changed at the last moment. While I prefer chicken breasts, for instance, you may prefer the darker meat. Perhaps you will find vegetable bouillon a good substitute for the stock. Make the dish uniquely yours!