<i>Rajas con crema</i> (charred poblano pepper strips with cream)

Total time: 40 minutes

Servings: 8

Note: This is a lighter version of what’s usually a decadent dish. If you want the luxurious version, skip the chicken broth and stir in at least one cup of Mexican crema or to taste. Be sure to use Mexican crema and not sour cream. Crema is available at any Latino supermarket. Crème fraîche is an acceptable substitute.

6 poblano peppers

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 white onion, chopped (about 2 cups)

1/4 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup Mexican crema

1/2 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese

Tortillas, for serving

1. Using tongs, char the poblano peppers over an open gas flame until blackened in spots on all sides. (If using an electric stove, char peppers on a comal or dry skillet over high heat.) Be careful not to overcook them or else they’ll turn limp and slimy — you don’t want a deep black burn but a sort of speckling of black and brown. Once peppers are charred, wrap them in a dish towel or paper bag. When cool, rub off the skin using your fingers or a paper towel. Try not to rinse them under water or you’ll lose some of the charred flavor.

2. Once peeled, cut open each chile and scrape out seeds and veins. Cut the chiles into strips 2 inches long and one-half-inch wide.

3. In a large skillet heated over medium heat, add the oil. Stir in the onion and cook until soft and translucent, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the chiles and broth and bring to a simmer, then stir in the crema. Bring to a simmer again and stir in the cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and creamy. This makes about 4 cups rajas con crema. Season to taste with salt and serve warm with tortillas.

Each serving (without tortillas): 106 calories; 4 grams protein; 8 grams carbohydrates; 3 grams fiber; 7 grams fat; 3 grams saturated fat; 13 mg cholesterol; 1 gram sugar; 80 mg sodium.