Step 1 of 6
Chiles rellenos
Char the poblanos directly over a gas flame, under a hot grill or on a dry comal, turning, until blistered and black all over but still holding their shape, 8 to 10 minutes. Put them in a bowl, cover with a plate and leave 15 minutes to sweat.
Tip: Char evenly. Any patch left green will not peel.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Chiles rellenos take?
1 hr 10 min all in — 40 min prep, 30 min cook. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 6 chillies. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Medium.
How spicy is it?
Mild.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Milk, Eggs, Wheat. Labels are informational — check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Vegetarian, Nut-free.
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What does it cost to cook?
Weeknight budget — about $8–16 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Comal or dry skillet, Blender, Saucepan, Mixing bowl, Frying pan, Tongs.
How much salt do I put in?
The recipe lists Salt at 1 pinch.
What can I use instead?
Poblano pepper → Anaheim chillies or large green bell peppers. Anaheim is closest in heat and thin skin. Bell pepper works but is sweeter and takes longer to char. Cheese filling → Picadillo of minced pork with tomato, raisins and almonds. The other classic filling. Cook it first and let it cool before stuffing.
What should I watch for?
Lower the chillies in away from you. Any wet spot on the batter will spit.
Any tips from this recipe?
Pick flat-sided, straight poblanos. Twisted ones tear when you peel and stuff them. If the batter slides off, the chilli is wet. Dry it and flour it again. The chillies can be charred, peeled and stuffed a day ahead. Batter and fry them only at the last minute.
Can I prepare this ahead?
The chillies can be charred, peeled and stuffed a day ahead. Batter and fry them only at the last minute.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.