Tlayudas Oaxaqueñas

Tlayudas Oaxaqueñas are a traditional dish hailing from Oaxaca, Mexico. Known for their delightful crunch and savory toppings, tlayudas are sometimes referred to as Mexican pizza. They have been enjoyed for generations and are a staple at street food stalls and local markets throughout Oaxaca. The dish celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Oaxaca, fusing indigenous Zapotec ingredients with colonial influences. Whether eaten as a main course or a late-night snack, tlayudas offer a unique gastronomic experience that captures the essence of Oaxacan cuisine.

Ingredients

• Corn Tortilla (large, approximately 12 inches wide)
• Refried Beans
• Quesillo Oaxaca (Oaxaca cheese, shredded)
• Cabbage (shredded)
• Avocado (sliced)
• Tomato (sliced)
• Mexican Chorizo (cooked and crumbled)
• Tasajo (thinly sliced grilled beef, optional)
• Epazote (a traditional Mexican herb, optional)
• Olive Oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Salsa (your choice, for topping)

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by preparing all of your ingredients. Slice the tomato and avocado, shred the cabbage, and crumble the Mexican chorizo if it hasn’t already been done. If you're using tasajo, grill it lightly and slice it thinly. Set aside your Quesillo Oaxaca and refried beans.

Assembling and Cooking

Heat a bit of olive oil in a pan or griddle. Place the large corn tortilla on the pan and allow it to become warm and slightly crisp. Spread a generous layer of refried beans across the surface of the tortilla. Top with Quesillo Oaxaca, allowing it to melt slightly.

Adding Toppings

Once the cheese has begun to melt, evenly layer the cabbage, avocado, and tomato slices. Add the crumbled Mexican chorizo and, if using, slices of tasajo. Season with salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle with epazote for an authentic touch.

Finishing Touches

Allow the tlayuda to cook for a few more minutes on the pan. Keep an eye on the tortilla to ensure it does not burn, but becomes nicely crispy. The entire process should take about 10 minutes. Use a cooking timer for precision.

Serving and Enjoying Your Tlayuda

Carefully remove the tlayuda from the heat and place it on a cutting board or large plate. Drizzle your preferred salsa over the top, adding an extra layer of flavor and spice. Cut into manageable slices before serving. Tlayudas can be enjoyed on their own or accompanied by a fresh salad or traditional Oaxacan beverage such as agua fresca. Whether you're sharing with family and friends or savoring the dish by yourself, each bite promises a blend of rich, authentic flavors that take you straight to the streets of Oaxaca.