Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. carne seca (dried beef)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1 can (15 oz.) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup water
- 12 tostada shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Tongs
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the carne seca until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Add the black beans and water to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
5. To assemble the tostadas, place a tostada shell on a plate. Top with a spoonful of the black bean mixture, followed by a spoonful of the crispy carne seca.
6. Top with shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, and chopped cilantro.
7. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- Makes 12 tostadas
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 220
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 16g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Carne seca can be substituted with shredded beef or chicken.
- Queso fresco can be substituted with feta cheese.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or avocado to the tostadas for extra flavor.
- Use refried beans instead of black beans for a creamier texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the carne seca until crispy for the best texture.
- Warm the tostada shells in the oven before assembling for a crispier shell.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover tostadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat tostadas in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the tostadas on a platter and garnish with lime wedges and cilantro sprigs.
Garnishes:
- Lime wedges and chopped cilantro
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mexican rice
- Green salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the carne seca is too tough, try soaking it in water for a few hours before cooking to soften it.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the carne seca to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Carne seca is a traditional Mexican dried beef that has been used for centuries as a way to preserve meat.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, salty, and slightly spicy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or as an appetizer at a party.
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Region: Mexican