Chiles Rellenos (Mexico)
Chiles Rellenos is a classic Mexican dish featuring large, mild poblano peppers that are roasted, peeled, and stuffed, traditionally with a melting cheese like Oaxaca or Chihuahua. The stuffed pepper is then dipped in a light, fluffy egg batter and fried until golden, often served in a warm tomato-based caldillo or sauce. It's a beloved comfort food with roots in the colonial-era kitchens of Puebla.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is typically high in fat and calories due to the frying process and cheese filling, with a moderate amount of protein from the egg and cheese. A single serving can range from 300 to 500 calories, providing calcium and vitamins A and C from the pepper, but it's not a low-carb or low-fat option.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 285 kcal |
| Protein | 12.5 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Fiber | 3.5 g |
| Sugar | 4.5 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
| Vitamin C | 145 mg |
| Vitamin A | 3200 IU |
| Calcium | 220 mg |
| Iron | 1.8 mg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.35 mg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Phosphorus | 190 mg |
Per 1 piece (approx. 200 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Chiles Rellenos are a staple of Mexican *antojitos* (cravings) and are often the centerpiece of family meals and celebrations. Nutritionally, the poblano pepper itself is a good source of capsaicin, which is studied for its metabolism-boosting properties, making the dish a flavorful vehicle for a nutrient-dense vegetable.
