Oaxacan Té Tostadas Recipe

About Oaxacan Té Tostadas

Oaxacan Té Tostadas are a delightful treat hailing from the vibrant region of Oaxaca, Mexico. Known for its rich culinary tradition, Oaxacan cuisine blends indigenous ingredients with colonial influences, resulting in unique and flavorful dishes. Té tostadas typically utilize native herbs and spices, served on crispy corn tortillas, making them a staple for both street-food enthusiasts and home cooks alike.

A Brief History

The state of Oaxaca is celebrated for its diverse and robust flavors that are deeply intertwined with its cultural heritage. Té tostadas, in particular, have roots that trace back to indigenous cooking techniques that incorporated locally sourced herbs, vegetables, and traditional cooking methods. As globalization brought new ingredients, the dish evolved into the crispy tostadas we know today, often topped with a refreshing mix of ingredients, making it perfect for warm evenings and festive gatherings.

Ingredients

• Corn tortillas (8)
• Black beans (1 cup, cooked and mashed)
• Queso fresco (crumbled, 1/2 cup)
• Avocado (sliced, 1 whole)
• Tomato (diced, 1 large)
• Cilantro (chopped, 1/4 cup)
• Lime (1, quartered)
• Salsa (1/2 cup)
• Onion (diced, 1/4 cup)
• Jalapeño (sliced, 1 for garnish)
• Salt (to taste)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

Preparation

1. Begin by preparing the corn tortillas by lightly brushing them with a bit of olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place the tortillas on a baking sheet and allow them to toast in the oven at 375°F until they become golden and crispy. This process usually takes about 10 minutes. For convenience, you can use a cooking timer to help manage the time.
2. In the meantime, heat the already cooked black beans in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add a pinch of salt to enhance their flavor. Once they are warmed through, mash them to create a spreadable consistency.
3. Prepare your toppings by dicing the tomato, chopping the cilantro, slicing the avocado, and dicing the onion. Mix the tomato, onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a small bowl to create a fresh salsa topping.
4. Once the tortillas are toasted, start assembling the tostadas. Spread a generous layer of mashed black beans on each tortilla.
5. Top each tostada with a handful of the fresh salsa, followed by slices of avocado.
6. Crumble queso fresco over the assembled tostadas, add a few fresh jalapeño slices for a kick, and drizzle a bit of salsa over everything.

Serving Suggestions

Oaxacan Té Tostadas are best enjoyed as soon as they’re prepared, while the tortillas are still crisp. Serve them with a wedge of lime on the side for an added zest. These tostadas pair beautifully with a refreshing horchata or a tangy tamarind drink.

Perfect for a casual meal or as part of a festive gathering, Oaxacan Té Tostadas bring a slice of Oaxaca's culinary heritage to your table, promising a delightful and satisfying experience.