A Classic Mexican Dish for Sharing and Celebration
In Mexico, Las Posadas are a festive season celebration filled with music, lights, ponche (a traditional mulled fruit punch), and delicious food. Among the various dishes, some have earned a special place in every gathering due to their simplicity and appeal. Chicken flautas are one such example: crunchy, affordable, filling, and pleasing to both traditional guests and those seeking a practical option for standing and snacking.
The Rise of “En Vaso” Chicken Flautas
In recent years, the “en vaso” (in a glass) version of chicken flautas has become the go-to choice for Las Posadas and parties. This format takes a classic—the golden, freshly fried chicken flauta—and transforms it into a convenient and easy-to-serve bite.
This format preserves the traditional flavor while adding versatility. Most importantly, it maintains the spirit of Las Posadas: simple, shareable food designed to bring people together and celebrate.
Recipe: Corn Cups with Chicken and Cream for Las Posadas
Ingredients:
- 12 corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 head lettuce, shredded
- Tomato salsa, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into thin strips. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fry the tortillas: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry corn tortillas until crispy, then drain on paper towels.
- Cook the chicken: In the same skillet, cook the seasoned chicken strips until no longer pink. Set aside.
- Make the cream sauce: In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the flautas: Spoon some chicken onto a crispy tortilla, then drizzle with cream sauce. Repeat for all servings.
- Serve: Place shredded lettuce on a plate, top with flautas, and serve with tomato salsa.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are Las Posadas? Las Posadas is a Mexican holiday celebration that takes place from December 16 through 24, commemorating Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging in Bethlehem. It involves caroling, breaking piñatas, and sharing traditional food and drinks.
- Why are “en vaso” chicken flautas popular for Las Posadas? These flautas are favored because they maintain the traditional taste while offering a convenient, easy-to-serve format. They embody the spirit of Las Posadas by promoting shared, hassle-free meals.
- What makes this recipe unique? This recipe presents chicken flautas in a fun, modern “en vaso” format. The corn tortillas are fried and filled with spiced chicken, then topped with a creamy sauce and served with lettuce and salsa for a refreshing twist.
