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Huevos Rancheros

Huevos rancheros is a classic Mexican breakfast featuring crispy corn tortillas, fried eggs, and a flavorful tomato-chili sauce. Topped with cheese, avocado, and optional refried beans, this hearty dish is a celebration of vibrant flavors and textures. Perfect for a satisfying brunch or breakfast-for-dinner treat!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 2
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the sauce

  • 2 large ripe tomatoes diced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 jalapeño finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • Juice of ½ lime

For the base

  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the eggs

  • 4 large eggs

Optional toppings

  • Refried beans
  • ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco
  • 1 sliced avocado
  • Hot sauce

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Sauté onions until translucent (2–3 minutes), then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Stir in diced tomatoes and jalapeño. Let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 more minutes until the sauce thickens.
  • Stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro. Keep warm.
  • Heat ¼ inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Fry tortillas one at a time until golden and crispy (1–2 minutes per side).
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
  • Heat a small amount of oil in a clean skillet over medium heat.
  • Crack eggs into the skillet and fry until whites are set, and yolks are runny (2–3 minutes). For firmer yolks, cover the skillet and cook an extra minute.
  • Place a tortilla on each plate. Spread refried beans (optional) over the tortilla.
  • Add a fried egg on top of each tortilla.
  • Spoon warm ranchero sauce generously over the eggs.
  • Top with crumbled queso fresco, sliced avocado, and hot sauce if desired.

Notes

Pro Tips

  • Adjust chili for your heat preference.
  • Make the sauce a day ahead for quick assembly.
  • Bake tortillas after frying for extra crispiness.