Chile

Dried chipotle chiles become smoky-hot packages for a filling made from subtly sweet ripe plantains. Don'erestimate the heat of dried chiles—it's important to wear rubber gloves when working with them, since they can be just as potent as fresh ones.

This stew has "family favorite" written all over it. The simplicity of the ingredients, along with its versatility, add
up to a dish that is fabulous for a casual dinner at home or to serve to guests.

Try this Mexican-inspired quiche for brunch, lunch, or dinner—it’s good anytime of day!

Flavorful pork shoulder, along with fruit—dried and fresh, the perfect fall combination—stuff these chiles en nogada.

Humitas Humitas, fresh corn tamales popular in Chile and other Latin American countries, are made using every part of the ears. Freshly grated kernels create a sweet filling; husks are used to form and tie the packages; and the cobs create a shelf on which to steam the humitas, imparting an extra boost of flavor. For more information about humitas.

Breaking down the season's freshest tomatoes and piling them on sourdough toast creates a simple and flavorful first course.

The Standard Hollywood, which serves celebrities such as Heather Graham and Megan Mullally, has a trendy diner feel, but you'll find more than the burger special on the menu. Executive chef David Linville offers international treats like this salad with protein-rich lean flank steak.

Editor's note: The recipe below is excerpted from Cal-a-Vie Living: Gourmet Spa Cuisine and is part of a healthy and delicious spa menu developed exclusively for Epicurious by Cal-a-Vie.

Spicy, smoky, and sweet, this would be a great side for grilled pork tenderloin.

Look for ancho chile powder in the spice section of supermarkets.

This Baja treat is well known to residents of Southern California, where fish tacos have been popular since their introduction in the 1980s. The crunch of coleslaw contrasts with tender fish, and the creamy dressing is spiked with the smoky heat of chipotle chiles.

Most salsas are too chunky and juicy to use as a dip. This one is finely puréed, with olive oil added to thicken it.

Classic Mexican comfort food, minus most of the fat.

Protein-packed lean shrimp really satisfies.

Accompanies Alambre de Camarones, Alambres de Camarones.

Don't worry about the fat; it's mostly the healthy kind in the avocado. Mixing in fruits boosts this appetizer's fiber count.

Lightly blanched squid makes a simple and elegant salad with the tang of fish sauce and fresh lime juice.