Smoky Vegetable Enchiladas

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Carefully rinse the rice (sifting through for any impurities). Drain thoroughly. In a medium pot, combine the rice, a big pinch of salt, and 1 cup of water (or 2 cups for 4 servings). Heat to boiling on high. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook, without stirring, 13 to 15 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Turn off the heat and fluff with a fork. Transfer to a large bowl.

Meanwhile, wash and dry the fresh produce. Thinly slice the scallions, separating the white bottoms and hollow green tops. Cut off and discard the stem of the pepper(s). Halve lengthwise; remove the ribs and seeds, then medium dice. Thoroughly wash your hands and cutting board immediately after handling. Drain and rinse the beans. Grate the gouda on the large side of a box grater. In a bowl, combine the guajillo sauce and béchamel.

In a medium nonstick pan (or large for 4 servings), heat a drizzle of olive oil on medium-high until hot. Add the diced pepper(s) and sliced white bottoms of the scallions. Cook, without stirring, 3 to 4 minutes, or until lightly browned; season with salt, pepper, and the spice blend. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, 2 to 3 minutes, or until softened. Transfer to the bowl of cooked rice. Add the drained beans, sour cream, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir to combine. Taste, then season with salt and pepper if desired.

Spread about half the filling into the bottom of a baking dish. Place the tortillas on a work surface. Divide the remaining filling among the tortillas; tightly roll up each tortilla around the filling. Transfer to the baking dish in a single layer, seam side down. Evenly top with the creamy guajillo sauce and grated gouda; season with salt and pepper.

Bake the enchiladas 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly browned and the cheese is melted. Remove from the oven. Let stand at least 2 minutes before serving. Serve the baked enchiladas garnished with the sliced green tops of the scallions. Enjoy!