Name: Rajas con Crema: Creamy Roasted Poblano Delight in Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 pieces Fresh Poblano Chiles (roasted until charred); 2 tablespoons Butter (for sautéing vegetables); 1 cup White Onion (diced); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 cup Corn Kernels (fresh or canned); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (for authentic flavor); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (can be substituted with Neufchâtel or Greek yogurt); 0.5 cup Mexican Crema or Sour Cream (crème fraîche can be substituted); 1 cup Oaxaca Cheese (shredded, can be substituted with Monterey Jack or mozzarella)

As I reached for the poblano peppers, a warm wave of nostalgia washed over me, taking me back to those magical family gatherings bursting with laughter and delicious scents. Rajas con Crema is a cherished Mexican classic that brings a creamy twist to roasted poblanos, making it a comforting addition to any meal. This recipe is not only quick to whip up, but it’s also incredibly versatile, serving as the perfect side dish for tacos or even a hearty main when paired with chicken or beef. Gluten-free and flavorful, it’s destined to become a crowd-pleaser at your dinner table. Are you ready to dive into the luscious world of Rajas con Crema?

Why is Rajas con Crema a Must-Try?

Comforting Creaminess: This dish is a delightful blend of roasted poblano peppers and a rich, creamy sauce that creates an irresistible comfort food experience.

Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can have this impressive dish ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights or surprise guests!

Versatile Delight: Serve it as a side alongside tacos or grilled meats, or use it as a filling for burritos or enchiladas for an exciting twist.

Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich flavors and appealing textures make Rajas con Crema an instant favorite, sure to impress family and friends alike.

Gluten-Free Friendly: This recipe allows everyone to enjoy delicious food without worrying about gluten, making it perfect for various dietary needs.

You’ll want to pair it with fresh toppings or alongside your favorite Mexican dishes to truly elevate your meal—just like the Bacon Egg Cheese breakfast burrito or a refreshing Barefoot Contessa Pear salad. Enjoy!

Rajas con Crema Ingredients

For the Dish

• Fresh Poblano Chiles – Adds a mild but flavorful spiciness to the dish; roast them until charred for the best flavor.
• Butter – Used for sautéing vegetables, adding richness to the overall dish.
• White Onion – Provides a sweet base flavor when sautéed; can be substituted with yellow onion if needed.
• Garlic – Enhances the flavor; use fresh minced garlic for the best results.
• Corn Kernels – Adds sweetness and texture; you can use canned or fresh corn depending on your preference.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; may substitute with sea salt if preferred.
• Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
• Ground Cumin – Introduces earthy tones; a key spice to ensure authentic Rajas con Crema flavor.

For the Cream Sauce

• Cream Cheese – Forms the creamy base of the sauce; can be substituted with Neufchâtel or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Mexican Crema or Sour Cream – Offers a rich, tangy element essential to the sauce; crème fraîche is a suitable substitute.
• Oaxaca Cheese – This traditional cheese melts beautifully; substitute with Monterey Jack or mozzarella if unavailable.

These ingredients come together to create a delightful dish that brings the flavor of Mexico right into your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rajas con Crema

Step 1: Roast Poblanos
Begin by preheating your broiler on high or preparing an open flame. Place fresh poblano chiles on a baking sheet or directly over the flame, charring them until they’re blistered and blackened, about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally. Once roasted, cover the chiles with a kitchen towel or in a bowl to steam for 5-10 minutes, helping you easily peel off the skin later.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
While the poblanos steam, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add a diced white onion and sauté it for about 4-5 minutes until it turns translucent and fragrant. Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet, stirring for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant and aromatic, enhancing the flavor base for the Rajas con Crema.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
With the onions soft and garlic aromatic, carefully peel, seed, and slice the roasted poblanos into strips. Add these poblano strips to the skillet, along with 1 cup of corn kernels, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon ground cumin. Stir well to combine, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through and flavors meld beautifully in the skillet.

Step 4: Mix in Cream Ingredients
Lower the heat to medium-low and introduce 4 ounces of cream cheese and ½ cup of Mexican crema to the mixture. Stir continuously, allowing the cream cheese to melt seamlessly into the mixture, creating a luscious cream sauce. Once combined, sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded Oaxaca cheese, cover the skillet, and let it sit for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bring richness to your Rajas con Crema.

Step 5: Serve
When the cheese is fully melted and your Rajas con Crema is creamy and inviting, remove the skillet from heat. Serve hot, ideally with warm tortillas or tortilla chips. This dish shines whether enjoyed as a delectable side or a cozy main, bringing a taste of Mexico to your table that’s sure to delight!

Expert Tips for Rajas con Crema

Roasting Perfection: Ensure you char the poblanos thoroughly to develop their full flavor. Covering them post-roast helps the skin slip off easily.
Creamy Consistency: To keep your Rajas con Crema silky, avoid high heat when melting the cream ingredients; low and slow is the key.
Spice Adjustments: If you’d like a milder flavor, choose bell peppers instead of poblanos, or remove the seeds for reduced heat.
Storage Savvy: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, but avoid freezing as this can affect the creamy texture.
Flavor Boost: Consider adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving for an extra zing that brightens the rich flavors of Rajas con Crema.

Storage Tips for Rajas con Crema

Fridge: Store any leftover Rajas con Crema in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze Rajas con Crema as the creamy sauce may separate and become grainy upon thawing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat on low heat in a skillet while stirring frequently to restore its creamy consistency.
Serving: Enjoy warm with fresh tortillas or tortilla chips, making it an easy and delicious meal any day!

What to Serve with Rajas con Crema

Indulging in Rajas con Crema opens up a world of delicious pairings to create a memorable meal that tantalizes the senses.

Warm Tortillas: These soft delights are perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness, enhancing every bite with a comforting texture.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken grilled to perfection provides a savory contrast to the creamy poblano sauce, making it a hearty main dish.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer an earthy, satisfying base that complements the zesty flavors of Rajas con Crema beautifully.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy, seasoned rice serves as an excellent side that absorbs the rich sauce, bringing every element of your meal together harmoniously.
Fresh Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip adds a vibrant, fresh component that brightens up the dish and adds a wonderful texture contrast.
Sautéed Vegetables: Lightly sautéed zucchini or bell peppers offer a fresh, colorful addition that balances out the richness of your Rajas con Crema.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping, their crunchiness adds excitement and makes for a fun appetizer or snack to start your meal.
Margaritas: A refreshing margarita cocktails balance out the richness of the dish with zesty flavors, making them an ideal drink pairing.
Churros: End your meal on a sweet note with indulgent churros, their warm cinnamon sugar coating making for a delightful contrast to the savory main dish.

Make Ahead Options

Rajas con Crema is a fantastic recipe for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can roast and prepare the poblano peppers up to 24 hours in advance; simply roast them, peel, slice, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sautéed vegetable mixture (onions, garlic, corn, and spices) can also be prepped up to 3 days ahead and stored similarly. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, just combine the prepped ingredients in a skillet, stir in the cream components (cream cheese and Mexican crema), and heat gently until everything is warm and creamy. This way, you’ll still have all the comforting flavors of fresh Rajas con Crema without the last-minute rush!

Rajas con Crema Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Rajas con Crema for that personal touch that takes this dish from delightful to extraordinary!

Protein-Packed: Add cooked and shredded chicken or beef for a heartier meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. This gives the dish a robust flavor, making it a stand-alone entrée.
Burrito Filling: Use Rajas con Crema as a filling for burritos or enchiladas, wrapping it up with your favorite proteins and toppings for a fun twist. It will make your next taco night all the more exciting!
Extra Heat: For those who crave a little kick, toss in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an added layer of spice. This simple addition can transform the flavor profile entirely.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the corn with black beans for a protein-rich, vegetarian-friendly option that still packs a punch in taste and texture. It’s a swap that everyone will love!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of cream cheese and Mexican crema for a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing creaminess. This alternative stays true to the spirit of Rajas con Crema.
Cheese Variations: Can’t find Oaxaca cheese? Monterey Jack or mozzarella can easily step in, offering a similar meltiness that’ll elevate your dish just as well.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens the creamy sauce. It’s a great way to add freshness!
Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker consistency, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking. It’s a quick and easy way to achieve the perfect texture.

Explore these variations while you enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Rajas con Crema. Whether you’re whipping up a delightful side for tacos or turning it into a main dish, you’ll find endless possibilities just waiting for you at the dinner table!

Rajas con Crema Recipe FAQs

What are the best poblano chiles to use for Rajas con Crema?
Absolutely! Look for fresh poblano chiles that are firm and glossy without dark spots or blemishes. Choose peppers that have a vibrant green color and are free of wrinkles, as these tend to have the best flavor and texture when roasted.

How long can I store leftover Rajas con Crema, and what’s the best method?
You can store Rajas con Crema in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation. When reheating, gently warm it on low heat while stirring to maintain its creamy consistency.

Can I freeze Rajas con Crema?
I often recommend against freezing Rajas con Crema because the creamy sauce can separate and become grainy once thawed. If you must freeze it, place it in an airtight container and use it within 1-2 months. When it’s time to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, stirring frequently.

Why is my Rajas con Crema grainy when reheated?
Very likely, it’s due to reheating too quickly on high heat! To preserve that silky texture, always reheat on low heat while stirring consistently. If you find the texture has become grainy, try adding a splash of milk or more cream to smoothen it out as you warm it.

Is Rajas con Crema suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This dish is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities! However, if you or your guests have dairy allergies, consider substituting the cream cheese and Mexican crema with non-dairy alternatives like cashew cream or coconut cream.