Enchiladas are a beloved Tex-Mex dish that combines tortillas, filling, sauce, and cheese into a mouthwatering combination. While traditional enchiladas are typically made with chicken or beef, there is a delicious twist that can take this dish to the next level - smoked turkey. Smoked turkey enchiladas offer a unique and smoky flavor that adds a delightful twist to this classic dish.
Choosing the Tortillas
The first step in making smoked turkey enchiladas is choosing the right tortillas. While corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas can also be used. Opt for 7- or 8-inch flour tortillas or 6-inch corn tortillas as they fit best in most pans. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try using purple corn tortillas for a pop of color. To make corn tortillas more pliable and easier to roll, wrap them in foil and bake them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
Making the Enchilada Sauce
One of the secrets to a delicious smoked turkey enchilada is the sauce. To make the enchilada sauce from scratch, heat 2 teaspoons of canola oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 2 teaspoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute. Then, add 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, one 8-oz. can of no-salt-added tomato sauce, ¾ cup of water, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until slightly thick, stirring occasionally. This homemade sauce adds flavor and keeps the enchiladas moist while cooking.
Preparing the Smoked Turkey Filling
The star of the show in smoked turkey enchiladas is, of course, the smoked turkey filling. You can either smoke your own turkey or purchase pre-smoked turkey from your local deli. Once you have the smoked turkey, shred it and set it aside. Other filling options can include cheese, beans, vegetables, or any other ingredients you love. Plan on using about ⅓ cup of filling per enchilada.
Rolling and Baking the Enchiladas
With the tortillas, sauce, and filling ready, it's time to assemble the smoked turkey enchiladas. Place the filling onto one edge of each tortilla, roll them up, and place them seam side down in a baking dish. Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the enchiladas. If there is any remaining sauce, you can spread it on the bottom of the pan to prevent the tortillas from sticking. Bake the enchiladas in a 350°F oven for about 25 minutes until heated through. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the smoked turkey enchiladas are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. You can garnish them with fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or homemade salsa for added flavor and texture. The combination of the smoky turkey, flavorful sauce, and melted cheese creates a truly irresistible dish that will delight your taste buds.
Make-Ahead Option
If you want to save time, you can make smoked turkey enchiladas ahead of time. Simply follow the steps above and refrigerate the assembled enchiladas before baking. When you're ready to enjoy them, just pop them in the oven and bake as directed. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Smoked turkey enchiladas offer a delicious and unique twist on the classic Tex-Mex dish. With the right tortillas, homemade sauce, and flavorful smoked turkey filling, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends. Whether you're a fan of traditional enchiladas or looking to try something new, smoked turkey enchiladas are a must-try dish that will satisfy your cravings for Tex-Mex flavors.
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