Mexico is a country known for having one of the richest culinary traditions in the world, as it is a blend of pre-Hispanic ingredients and flavors with other elements brought to the national territory by the colonizers. From mole, tlayudas, enchiladas, chiles en nogada, and even antojitos and garnachas, Mexican food is simply exquisite, and there will always be something for everyone's taste.

When it comes to everyday food, beans from the pot, Mexican rice, stews, antojitos, and aguas frescas are must-haves in our country. To top it off, desserts like flan, rice pudding, or all kinds of gelatins are usually prepared.

In Mexico, there are enchiladas of all types: green enchiladas, red enchiladas, Swiss enchiladas, miner enchiladas, mole enchiladas, enchiladas with bean sauce, Potosina enchiladas, among others. And although all these varieties are exquisite, there is no doubt that green and red Swiss enchiladas are among the most popular.

You can also read: Our 7 best Swiss enchilada recipes

The history behind Swiss enchiladas

Swiss enchiladas have a peculiar history, as according to the Encyclopedic Dictionary of Mexican Gastronomy, this type of enchiladas was invented in the early 20th century in a famous café in Mexico City.

On the other hand, the Mexican Restaurant Association states that Swiss enchiladas were first prepared in the mid-19th century when Mexico was governed by Maximilian of Habsburg. Years later, with the end of the empire, Maximilian's steward fled to Coahuila, only to return to Mexico City years later. It is worth mentioning that he had Maximilian's favorite recipes in his possession.

The AMR indicates that the steward opened the so-called Café Imperial, where Swiss enchiladas were supposedly invented. The first version states that the steward's wife named them Swiss enchiladas because she had the habit of naming dishes after the Habsburgs. The second version suggests that this type of enchiladas reminded Walter Sanborn, the founder of a famous chain, of the Swiss Alps because this dish was covered with a small mountain of cheese and cream.

You can also read: 20 different ways to make enchiladas

How to prepare Swiss enchiladas?

As mentioned earlier, Swiss enchiladas are prepared with a green or red sauce, to which cream is added to make it thicker and also to reduce the spiciness. The special touch is given by melted manchego cheese. In some places, sour cream and slices of white or red onion are usually added. If you don't know what to accompany Swiss enchiladas with, you only need a bit of Mexican red rice, and you're good to go.

How to prepare the best Swiss enchiladas?

If you love red Swiss enchiladas and green Swiss enchiladas, don't miss out on these tips that will help you improve your recipe in a very simple way.

Add cream cheese to the Swiss enchilada sauce
We know that the best part of Swiss enchiladas is that the sauce is thick and has great flavor, but if you want to take it to the next level, all you have to do is add a bit of cream cheese; this will make all the difference.

Make the tortillas by hand
There is nothing better than a freshly made tortilla, so we recommend preparing them on the spot if you want to have the best Swiss enchiladas in history.

Add an extra touch of flavor to your enchiladas
If you want to add even more flavor to your dish, you can fill the Swiss enchiladas with chorizo, beef, refried beans, or your preferred ingredient.

You can also read: Red Swiss Enchiladas

Don't forget the spices and herbs
Take your Swiss enchilada sauce to the next level by using spices like cumin, clove, pepper, bay leaves, thyme, or your favorite ingredient.

Follow Kiwilimon's recipes to the letter
Remember that our recipes are prepared with great care by a group of chefs, who share all their secrets for cooking delicious dishes.

Use fresh ingredients
Your baked Swiss enchiladas will be the most delicious you have ever tasted if you use fresh green or red tomatoes, chili, onion, garlic, cilantro, tortillas, and fresh, high-quality chicken.