The History of Enchiladas

Of all the traditional Mexican foods, enchiladas are some of the most popular and well-known. Enchiladas consist of a selection of fillings, including various meats, cheeses, beans, and vegetables, filled into a corn tortilla and finished with a savory red or green enchilada sauce. Many Mexican restaurants around the world serve enchiladas on their menus, but their origin is lesser-known to the general population.

Enchiladas date back to Aztec roots. The Spanish conquerors arrived in the region to discover a cuisine rich in flavors, where tortillas were used in many Aztec dishes. The enchilada, in particular, was unique to the region, with flavors and techniques unknown to most other parts of the world. Instead of using tortillas as a form of utensil, the Aztec region made tortillas an integral part of their enchilada dish, which would become a tradition that carried out through the centuries.

Traditionally, the enchilada was served as a special part of the meal for the Aztec nobility. However, enchiladas became widely available for everyone as soon as the local markets began to cook and sell enchiladas. The utilization of several healthy and hearty ingredients, paired with a relatively easy cooking method, made enchiladas a widespread culinary icon.

Unfortunately, much of the Aztec Empire was overthrown following the seizing of the city by Spanish forces. Although the temples, buildings, palaces, and Aztec records were destroyed, the conquerors took a liking to the Aztec enchiladas. Over the years, they would decide to substitute different ingredients into their enchilada recipes, including the addition of meats and cheeses, instead of the beans and eggs used in the traditional versions. Now, centuries later, we have countless recipes for enchiladas, with endless flavor combination possibilities.

At Mazatlan Mexican restaurant, we love showcasing our favorite traditional and authentic Mexican dishes. One of our most popular is our Two Enchiladas Mole: Two corn tortillas filled with chicken that has been marinated and cooked in our special sweet and spicy mole sauce. Or, try our unique Crab Enchiladas, which consist of tender crab meat, onions, and tomatoes, wrapped in corn tortillas and topped with our special enchilada sauce and melted cheese.

Now that Phase 2 has been approved for Snohomish County, our restaurant is proudly open again for dine-in. Come by today to try one of our authentic enchilada meals for yourself! Or place an order for pickup or delivery. Let Mazatlan Restuarant be your go-to for delicious and authentic Mexican food in Everett, Washington!