Chile Relleno Casserole with Side Salad

Instructions

1. 1

   Roast and Prepare the Poblano Peppers

   • Position an oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler element and set the broiler to high.
   • Place the poblano peppers on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes per side, turning with tongs, until the skin is blackened and blistered all over.
   • Immediately transfer the hot peppers to a heatproof bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap, or place them in a paper bag and seal. Let them steam for 15 minutes to loosen the skins.
   • Once cool enough to handle, use your fingers or a paper towel to peel off the charred skin. Make a slit down the side of each pepper and carefully remove the seeds and veins. Pat the peppers dry.
2. 2

   Assemble the Casserole Layers

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.
   • Arrange half of the roasted and cleaned peppers in a single, even layer to cover the bottom of the dish.
   • Sprinkle half of the Monterey Jack cheese and half of the cheddar cheese evenly over the peppers.
   • Top with the remaining peppers in another layer, followed by the rest of the cheese.
3. 3

   Prepare the Egg Custard

   • In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until they are light and frothy, about 1 minute.
   • Whisk in the evaporated milk until combined. Then, add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cumin powder. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps.
4. 4

   Bake the Casserole

   • Gently and evenly pour the egg mixture over the cheese and pepper layers in the baking dish.
   • Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, the top is golden brown, and the center is set (it should have only a slight jiggle). A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
5. 5

   Rest and Serve

   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the casserole to set, ensuring cleaner slices.
   • Cut into six equal portions and serve warm with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.