Cares for You

What are the benefits of eating chiles en nogada?

By Gretel Morales - 2022-07-13T11:18:24Z
The chiles en nogada are a true gem of Mexican cuisine, as the combination of ingredients and flavors is simply irresistible. Although it can be enjoyed for several months, chile en nogada is usually prepared during the month of September to celebrate Mexico's Independence.  Who invented chiles en nogada? There are myths and legends surrounding the origin of chile en nogada, but it seems that it was created by the Augustinian nuns of the Santa Mónica convent in Puebla. Versions suggest that the first chile en nogada was cooked in 1821, all to celebrate Mexico's Independence, which is why it is prepared today for the celebrations of the national month.  One of the main characteristics of the famous chile en nogada is that it has the three colors of the Trigarante Army and the Mexican flag: Green: poblano chili and parsley White: nogada Red: pomegranate You can also read: Who invented chiles en nogada?Are chiles en nogada healthy? This traditional dish of the national celebrations is known for being stuffed with ingredients such as beef and pork, almonds, pine nuts, apple, pear, peach, candied fruit, tomato, garlic, onions, and spices, and then bathed in a creamy nogada and topped with pomegranate and fresh parsley. However, there are two sides when it comes to chile en nogada: battered and unbattered.  On one hand, some insist that this chili should not be battered with egg and fried, as the egg coating can distract from the unique blend of flavors, while others insist on battering and frying the chile en nogada, as it tends to be more visually appealing.  In addition to flavor and presentation, this variation has a direct impact on the calories of the dish, so it can be an important consideration during the national celebrations, especially if you are on a diet. So here we tell you how many calories a vegan chile en nogada, a battered one, and an unbattered one have: Vegetarian chile en nogada Thanks to containing more vegetables, a 100 g serving of this vegetarian chili contains: 179.2 kcal 4.5 g of protein 2.7 g of fiber 2.5 mg of cholesterol Unbattered chile en nogada A 100 g serving of the traditional unbattered chile en nogada contains: 232.3 kcal 6.3 g of protein 3.5 g of fiber 13.3 mg of cholesterol Battered chile en nogada Finally, a 100 g serving of chile en nogada with egg batter contains: 405.6 kcal 9.7 g of protein 5.4 g of fiber 28.3 mg of cholesterol As you can see, the difference in calories and cholesterol content is very different among the three chiles, so it is important to be aware of the caloric content of a dish before preparing it for the celebration on September 15. You can also read: 4 theories explaining the origin of chile en nogadaThe benefits of eating chile en nogada Chile en nogada is a must at the table during the national celebrations, as it is the ideal dish to celebrate Mexico's independence in the company of family and friends, especially when paired with a good Mexican wine or a cocktail with tequila, but have you ever wondered if it is healthy or has health benefits? Here we answer these questions! In general, the ingredients of chile en nogada are healthy, as long as they are consumed in moderate amounts and the chili is not battered and fried, so we tell you the benefits of each ingredient, you will be surprised! Garlic: Experts indicate that garlic is an ingredient rich in vitamin B6, vitamin C, and manganese. Almonds: Here are more reasons to eat almonds! In addition to being delicious, they contain protein, fiber, vitamin E, vitamin B2, calcium, iron, potassium, niacin, and folic acid. Pork: Pork is a good source of iron, phosphorus, zinc, and vitamins B6 and B12. Beef: In addition to being a source of protein, it should be consumed in moderation and in small amounts. Onion: In addition to adding great flavor to all kinds of dishes, onions also contain fiber, potassium, and vitamins B and C. Poblano chili: This chili is an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C. Creole peach: According to Rutgers University, the peach is an incredible source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folic acid, iron, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, and niacin. Pomegranate: This crimson fruit is one of the healthiest, as it contains fiber, protein, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Tomato: The ingredient that cannot be missing in Mexican stews and sauces is very nutritious, as it contains a good amount of folic acid, vitamin C, potassium, carotenoids, and lycopene. Panochera apple: Besides being low in calories, apples also contain fiber, vitamin C, and other antioxidants.  Castilla walnut: Experts from WebMD indicate that this type of nut contains omega-3 and polyunsaturated fats. On the other hand, WebMD mentions that consuming Castilla walnuts could help lower bad cholesterol levels. Raisins: Raisins are loved by many and hated by others, but what is undeniable is that they have nutrients such as vitamin B6, iron, potassium, and manganese. Milk pear: Pears are rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as folic acid, fiber, potassium, iron, and calcium. Parsley: If you want to increase your intake of antioxidants and vitamins A and C, parsley is your best option. Pine nut: This type of seed is an excellent source of iron, antioxidants, protein, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin K.  Plantain: Who doesn't like plantains? This delicious fruit has great flavor, but also vitamin A and K and iron.  Goat cheese: This creamy and delicious cheese is rich in calcium, so don't hesitate to prepare the nogada with goat cheese.  You can also read: Why is chile en nogada so important in our culture?