A tasty plate of chilaquiles is probably the most Mexican way to start your day. But who invented chilaquiles? Read on to discover the answer.
Who Invented Chilaquiles?
We don’t know exactly who invented chilaquiles. However, we can make some reasonable assumptions about the origins of Mexico’s favorite breakfast food.
Let’s begin with the name. The word “chilaquiles” is a combination of three terms in Nahuatl (the language spoken by the Aztecs): “chilli,” “atl” (water), and “quilitl” (edible herb).
Now, the fact that the word comes from Nahuatl is a hint that chilaquiles either have very ancient origins or were created early during the Colonial period.
However, it’s worth noting that even if the Aztecs made the first version of chilaquiles, the dish as we know it today wouldn’t exist without a contribution from the Spanish, who introduced ingredients such as crema and onion.
The Evolution of Chilaquiles
The first written mention of chilaquiles dates back to 1821, when they were included in a recipe book titled “El arte nuevo de cocina y repostería acomodado al uso mexicano”.
This version of chilaquiles is more calorie-dense than the dish we know today. In addition to the traditional ingredients, the 1821 recipe calls for chorizo, pork, and sesame seeds.
Everything seems to indicate that the recipe was streamlined over time until reaching the tasty perfection we know today: an unmatched balance between the spiciness of chili peppers and the freshness of tomato and crema. A winning combination that’s guaranteed to get your day off to a great start.
More Interesting Facts About Mexican Food
If you are hungry for more stories and facts about Mexican food, then check out these previous posts:
- Mexican food in space: 3 facts you probably didn’t know
- Which is the best part of the Chicken?
- 8 Interesting facts about tacos
- What is the best taco topping?
Enjoy Authentic Mexican Food at El Pollo Norteño!
Looking for authentic Mexican food to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day in, Anaheim, Santa Ana, or Garden Grove? Then El Pollo Norteño is the place to go.
Visit today any of our four locations (Anaheim, Santa Ana, and Garden Grove), order online, get in touch through Facebook, or call 866-MI-POLLO to enjoy our authentic Mexican dishes: amazing chicken grilled to perfection over real Mesquite charcoal, caldo de pollo, flan, carnitas, carne asada, and more!
