Refried beans and ground beef Tostadas

Refried Beans and Ground Beef Tostadas Recipe

Tostadas are a classic Mexican dish that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This recipe for Refried Beans and Ground Beef Tostadas is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The crispiness of the tostada shells, the creaminess of the refried beans, and the savory richness of the seasoned ground beef come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Refried Beans:

• 2 cups canned or homemade refried beans
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1/4 cup milk or water (optional for thinning)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Tostada Shells:

• 8 corn tortillas
• Vegetable oil for frying or cooking spray for baking

Toppings (optional but recommended):

• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Sour cream or Mexican crema
• Crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Lime wedges
• Pickled jalapeños

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ground Beef:

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then return it to the stove.
5. Season the beef with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
6. Pour in the beef broth or water, and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Refried Beans:

1. In another skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the refried beans to the skillet, stirring occasionally until they’re heated through.
3. If the beans are too thick, add a bit of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and the beans are creamy. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the Tostada Shells:

Frying Method:

1. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully place one tortilla in the oil. Fry for about 1 minute on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the tostada from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Baking Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the tortillas on a baking sheet and lightly brush both sides with oil or spray with cooking spray.
3. Bake for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re crispy and golden brown.

4. Assemble the Tostadas:

1. Spread a generous layer of refried beans on each tostada shell.
2. Top the beans with a scoop of the seasoned ground beef.
3. Add your desired toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, sour cream, crumbled queso fresco, and fresh cilantro.

5. Serve:

1. Serve the tostadas immediately, with lime wedges and pickled jalapeños on the side for an extra kick.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and use sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini as a topping.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the ground beef for extra heat.
• Tostada Shells: For a healthier version, opt for baked tostada shells instead of fried ones.

These Refried Beans and Ground Beef Tostadas are sure to be a hit. The combination of flavors is comforting, yet the crispiness of the tostada and freshness of the toppings keep it light and exciting. Enjoy!