My Mexican friend Dionicia shared her home-made version of what she calls ‘Chiles en Nogados’ with me last week. She told me this is a popular Christmas tradition in Mexico now. My friend explained that this recipe originated back in 1821, when the victorious Mexican General Augustin de Iturbide stopped in Puebla, and a community of nuns prepared this dish to honor him on Mexican Independence Day. The nuns came up with a humble ‘Chiles’ recipe, using low-cost, simple ingredients in season.  That said, it was laborious at the time (and I think it still ‘is.’) I did not ask for the recipe, I simply enjoyed this wonderful treat as I learned about the story behind it! What else could I do? Now I know this much: 1) They’re made with Chiles Poblanos, the stuffing is made of walnuts, dried fruits, pomegranate and meat ingredients. 2) Original recipe calls for the stuffed Chile to be dipped in egg batter and then fried. Luckily my friend skipped that step.. (She knows I am always on a diet.) 3) They are extremely spicy and the cream on top helps refresh the palate while creating a heavenly balance. I ate them with rice (as Dionicia recommended.) Full of flavor in every bite, my Chiles en Nogados were a great Christmas gift! 🙂