Spicy chorizo and melty cheese make this Oaxacan tlayuda super rich
Traditionally, this Oaxacan specialty starts with a thin masa round that’s topped with a bean purée and savory toppings, pizza-style. This shortcut version uses large flour tortillas and canned beans for a super-fast meal that’s extra flavorful with browned spicy chorizo (be sure to get Mexican chorizo, which comes uncooked). Quick-pickled red onions bring a bright pop of pink and crunch.
Spicy Chorizo Tlayuda
25 minutes. Makes 4.
Ingredients
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup distilled white vinegar
- 8 ounces spicy Mexican chorizo, casings removed if needed
- 1 can (16 ounces) refried black beans
- 4 large (12 to 14 inches) flour tortillas
- 4 ounces Oaxacan cheese, torn into large shreds
- ¼ head small cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 425 degrees.
- Place the red onion in a small bowl and cover with the vinegar, pressing down the onion to submerge if needed. Let stand until ready to serve.
- Heat a large cast iron or other heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Crumble the chorizo into the skillet and cook, stirring and breaking into almond-sized chunks, until cooked through and crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl. Add the beans to the skillet and cook, stirring and scraping up any browned bits from the pan, until heated through, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Divide the beans among the tortillas and spread in a thin, even layer, leaving ½-inch rim. Bake on ungreased baking sheets until the tortilla is crisp and lightly browned around the edges, about 8 minutes. Sprinkle the chorizo and cheese on top and return to the oven. Bake until the cheese just melts, 1 to 2 minutes.
- Cut in wedges and top with the cabbage. Drain the onions and scatter on top. Serve hot.
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