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Benjamin

Flavorful Tostada Recipe for Everyone

Crispy, flavorful, and incredibly fun to make, Mexican Tostadas are a perfect dish for any occasion. Picture a crunchy tortilla topped with creamy beans, fresh veggies, and your favorite garnishes—it's like a taco, but even better! This versatile recipe allows you to mix and match toppings to suit your taste, making it a hit for family dinners, parties, or even a quick snack.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 tostadas
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tostadas:
  • Corn oil or extra virgin olive oil for frying
  • 12 corn tortillas
  • Salt to taste
For the Toppings:
  • 3 1/2 cups refried beans homemade or from 2 [15-ounce] cans
  • 1/2 head iceberg lettuce thinly sliced and seasoned with salt and vinegar
  • 2 medium tomatoes chopped
  • 1 –2 avocados peeled, pitted, and chopped (or guacamole)
  • 8 ounces grated Monterey Jack Cheddar, queso fresco, or cotija cheese
  • 1 cup salsa or 1/2 cup sliced pickled jalapeños
  • A handful of chopped fresh cilantro

Method
 

 Prepare the Refried Beans:
  1. Warm the refried beans in a frying pan over medium heat. If using canned beans, drain and add a splash of water before mashing.
  2. For enhanced flavor, stir in 1 tablespoon of bacon fat or a slice of cheddar cheese. Keep the beans warm, adding water as needed to maintain a creamy consistency.
Dry the Tortillas:
  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F. Lay the tortillas directly on an oven rack and let them dry for about 10 minutes. This step ensures a better fry.
 Fry the Tortillas:
  1. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Test the oil with a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle immediately.
  2. Fry each tortilla one at a time for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Use tongs to remove each tortilla, letting excess oil drip off. Place on a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with salt.
  4. Keep the fried tortillas warm in the oven while you prepare the rest.
 Assemble the Toppings:
  1. Arrange the toppings in separate bowls for easy access: beans, lettuce, tomatoes, avocados, cheese, salsa, and jalapeños.
Build Your Tostadas:
  1. Take a fried tortilla and spread a generous spoonful of refried beans across the surface.
  2. Layer on lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, cheese, and your choice of salsa or jalapeños.
  3. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve and Enjoy:
  1. Serve the tostadas immediately to ensure they remain crisp. Encourage your guests to assemble their own tostadas for a fun, interactive meal.

Notes

  • Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the tortillas at 400°F for 5–7 minutes per side until crisp.
  • Storage: Store leftover fried tortillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven to restore crispiness.
  • Customization: Add shredded chicken, ground beef, or shrimp for added protein.
  • Vegetarian Option: Stick to beans, cheese, and fresh veggies for a delicious meat-free meal.

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