THE GRINNING BELLY

Who or what are chilaquiles and how do you even say it? Chee·luh·kee·leiz are a traditional breakfast Mexican comfort food of tortilla chips coated in sauce—typically green salsa (salsa verde), or red enchilada sauce (chilaquiles rojos)— and topped with all kinds of fresh deliciousness: meat or beans, onion, avocado, crumbled cheese, cilantro (love it? hate it? I’m a fan), and sometimes fried eggs.

Crawling out of a dewy tent on cool June mornings always reminds me of tree planting, yet nowadays, I do not have to beat the 5 am rush to the lunch table to secure my ration of Block Treats, or try to cram a fistful of breakfast quiche into my mouth before I start duct taping my fingers. Now, I camp by choice— usually in a trailer!—enjoying easy mornings of strongly fortified coffee, and wiping sleep from my eyes as Shawn “Ranger Ricks” up a breakfast fire.

These chilaquiles are a perfect start to a busy camp day of hiking and kayaking, or reading on the beach with a fizzy drink in a koozie if that’s more your jam. A bit of prep beforehand and having everything at your fingertips ensures a smooth launch in the morning:

• salsa verde or enchilada sauce (homemade is the bee’s knees, so if you have time before your camping trip, Cookie and Kate’s recipe is the best: cookieandkate. com/enchilada-sauce-recipe • fried tortilla chips (buy some or fry up some stale tortillas) • fresh toppings (shredded chicken or beef, refried beans, guac, crumbled cheese, sour cream, avocado, red onion, fried eggs