There's nothing better than waking up to a hearty Mexican breakfast. Questions often arise as to what the traditional Mexican breakfast is. Some say it's menudo, for some it's chilaquiles, and still others will argue huevos rancheros.
We're fans of them all, but huevos rancheros seems to get drowned out by the other more popular items.
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Huevos rancheros, for those who don't know, consists of two eggs, usually over medium, on top of fried corn tortillas. Tomato-chile sauce, often times with a spicy kick, adorns the eggs, and for garnishing, sauteed onions and peppers come with the dish as well. Don't forget the rice and refried beans with a side of more tortillas.
Not only is it delicious, but the dish does have a little back story -- as a snack of sorts. It was actually served to Mexican farm workers midway through their work days to help sustain them, and later they would get another meal.
Now, there's no need to wait until you break a sweat to indulge in some huevos rancheros. Thankfully, most Mexican restaurants offer the dish, so just about anywhere you go, you will find it.
Our favorite place to eat our hearts out is at La Barquita at 2334 E. McDowell Rd. in central Phoenix. Their version of huevos rancheros is one loaded plate. On top of the eggs is a pile of onions, mushrooms, and red and green bell peppers with thinly sliced ham. A caution to those who aren't big fans of spicy: This dish may not be for you because it brings the heat and will leave your lips with a burning sensation.
Mexican rice and beans come on the side to complete the plate. It's hearty and filling, and everything you could want out of a modified huevos rancheros plate.
Other restaurants take their own spin on the traditional dish, such as Snooze. Theirs comes with flour or corn tortillas and black beans instead of pinto beans.
There's a version out there for everyone, so whether you want to go the traditional rout or try something new, the options are nearly endless.
