Chiles en Nogada

Chiles en Nogada is a traditional Mexican dish with roots in Mexico’s War of Independence. This classic cuisine is a staple on Mexican tables, and a popular offering at many Mexican restaurants. 

Chiles en Nogada

Chiles en Nogada is a Mexican dish comprised of Poblano chiles and picadillo, a type of hash made of meat and dried fruit. The dish is covered in a walnut sauce, pomegranate seeds, and parsley. The garnishes represent each color on the Mexican flag, as the dish commemorates Mexican Independence. Because of the ingredients in this dish, Chiles en Nogada is typically served from August to September. These are the months when both pomegranates and walnuts are in season, making them easily accessible and less expensive compared to other times of the year. The stuffing is typically a combination of beef or pork, a few veggies, and candied or dried fruit.

The History

Chiles en Nogada is the star of most Mexican Independence Day feasts. It has been debated that Chiles en Nogada was being prepared before its documented introduction, but the typical story explains why this traditional cuisine is so important for Mexican Independence festivities.

Chiles en Nogada was first introduced on August 28, 1821, immediately after the Treaty of Cordoba was signed, granting Mexico independence from Spain. Military commander and emperor of Mexico from 1822- 1823, Augustin de Iturbide, signed the Treaty in Veracruz. He then made his way to the town of Puebla where the townspeople held a grand feast in his honor and to celebrate their new independence. At this feast, the Augustinian nuns of the Santa Monica convent utilized in-season ingredients and created the dish we now know as Chiles en Nogada.

A relatively simple dish to make, Chiles en Nogada has become of of Mexico’s most patriotic dishes. From the historic beginnings to the country colors, this dish has all of the ingredients needed to make it a national treasure. Mexican Independence day is September 16th. Don’t miss your chance to try this much-loved Mexican classic. If you would like to read more about the dish, check out this article: https://bsyl.ink/ChilesEnNogada. For all of your favorite Mexican dishes, stop by Condesa! We make authentic Mexican cuisine, freshly-prepared and made with care. We serve Chiles en Nogada all year round, so if you can’t make it in for September 16th, stop by when you an to experience this traditional Mexican dish!