Hierbabuena Tlayuda

The Hierbabuena Tlayuda is a traditional dish hailing from the vibrant culinary landscape of Oaxaca, Mexico. Known for its rich flavors and unique toppings, the tlayuda is often compared to a pizza, but with its distinct Oaxacan twist. This beloved dish showcases the region's heritage by combining a large, thin, and crispy corn tortilla with various ingredients, including the aromatic hierbabuena herb, which adds a refreshing note to the savory toppings.

The History of Tlayuda

The tlayuda has roots deeply planted in the culinary traditions of Oaxaca. The dish dates back to pre-Hispanic times when indigenous people would use large tortillas as edible plates. Over time, the tlayuda evolved, incorporating new ingredients and methods introduced during the Spanish colonization. Today, it stands as a symbol of Oaxacan cuisine, a testament to the adaptability and enduring nature of traditional recipes.

Ingredients

• Large corn tortilla (about 12 inches in diameter)
• Hierbabuena (fresh mint) - 1 cup, chopped
• Black beans - 1 can (or 2 cups boiled)
• Queso Oaxaca (or mozzarella) - 1 cup, shredded
• Chorizo - 1/2 cup, cooked and crumbled
• Avocado - 1, sliced
• Tomato - 1, diced
• Cabbage - 1 cup, shredded
• Lime - 1, cut into wedges
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

1. In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook until it becomes crispy. Set aside.
2. Rinse and drain the black beans. Mash them slightly with a fork to make a spreadable mixture and season with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Shred the queso Oaxaca and set aside.
4. Chop the hierbabuena and shred the cabbage.
5. Slice the avocado and tomato.

Cooking the Tlayuda

1. Heat a large griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the large tortilla onto the griddle and warm it for about 2 minutes on each side until it is crisp.
3. Spread the mashed black beans evenly over the surface of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle the shredded queso Oaxaca generously over the beans.
5. Evenly distribute the cooked chorizo, sliced avocado, tomato, shredded cabbage, and chopped hierbabuena on top.
6. Allow the tlayuda to cook for a few more minutes until the cheese is melted and the toppings are heated through. Use a timer to ensure you don't overcook it.

Serving

Remove the tlayuda from the griddle and transfer it to a large serving platter. Use a pizza cutter or knife to slice it into portions. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. The citrus notes from the lime pair perfectly with the freshness of the hierbabuena and the savory-rich toppings.

Enjoying Your Hierbabuena Tlayuda

This dish is perfect for a casual dinner with family or friends. Pair it with a refreshing drink such as horchata or a light Mexican beer to complement the flavors. The hierbabuena adds a unique and delightful herbal note, making each bite a taste of Oaxacan authenticity. Relax and enjoy the blend of textures and flavors in this classic Mexican dish that is both delicious and anchored deeply in traditional heritage.