The tlayuda is a delightful Oaxacan-style pizza, featuring a crispy, baked tortilla as its base. Topped with creamy refried beans, savory chorizo, fresh avocado, and crunchy cabbage, it offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The melted Oaxacan cheese and a drizzle of crema bring richness, while the lime adds a zesty kick that balances the dish.
This tlayuda recipe is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner, capturing the authentic flavors of Mexican street food in a simple, easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re new to Mexican cuisine or a seasoned foodie, this tlayuda will transport you straight to the streets of Oaxaca with every bite. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized with your favorite toppings, making it versatile and fun to share.
Full Recipe:
- 1 large tlayuda (or 12-inch tortilla)
- 1/2 cup refried black beans
- 1/2 cup Oaxacan cheese (or mozzarella), shredded
- 1/4 cup chorizo, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 tablespoon Mexican crema (or sour cream)
- 1 tablespoon salsa of choice
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tlayuda on a baking sheet.
- Spread the refried black beans evenly across the surface of the tlayuda.
- Sprinkle shredded Oaxacan cheese over the beans.
- Add cooked chorizo on top of the cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the tlayuda are crispy.
- Remove from the oven and top with avocado slices, shredded cabbage, Mexican crema, and salsa.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra citrus kick.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
What is Tlayuda?
A tlayuda is a traditional dish from the Mexican state of Oaxaca, often referred to as “Oaxacan pizza” due to its shape and composition. Unlike a typical pizza, the base is made from a large, thin, and crispy tortilla, often toasted or baked until crunchy. It is typically layered with refried beans, fresh vegetables, meats, and cheese. The tlayuda is an iconic street food in Oaxaca, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike for its bold flavors and satisfying ingredients.
Cultural Background
Tlayudas are deeply rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Oaxaca, a region known for its diverse indigenous cultures and unique ingredients. The dish reflects Oaxaca’s vibrant food heritage, with many variations based on local produce and proteins. It’s often considered a “peasant dish,” as it was historically made with affordable, everyday ingredients like beans, tortillas, and cheese. Today, tlayudas are enjoyed across Mexico and internationally, showcasing the flavors of Oaxaca in restaurants and food markets.
Key Ingredients
- Tlayuda (or tortilla): A large, toasted or baked tortilla serves as the foundation of the dish. It’s much larger and crispier than typical tortillas used for tacos, making it perfect for holding a variety of toppings.
- Refried Black Beans: These provide a creamy and savory base layer, essential to any traditional tlayuda. The beans add protein and richness to the dish.
- Oaxacan Cheese (Quesillo): A soft, stringy cheese similar to mozzarella, Oaxacan cheese is a must-have for tlayudas. It melts beautifully, providing a luscious, cheesy texture.
- Chorizo: Spicy, seasoned chorizo adds a burst of flavor and savory depth. In Oaxaca, it’s common to use local chorizo, but any high-quality chorizo will work well.
- Fresh Veggies: Tlayudas are often topped with a variety of fresh vegetables for balance and crunch. In this version, avocado and shredded cabbage provide creaminess and crunch respectively.
- Mexican Crema and Salsa: These final touches elevate the dish, adding creaminess and a hint of spice, while the lime wedges bring a bright, citrusy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Tlayudas are highly customizable, making them a versatile dish for any occasion. Here are some suggestions for serving and pairing:
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap out the chorizo for roasted vegetables like mushrooms or peppers, or add grilled nopales (cactus) for a traditional touch.
- Vegan Option: Omit the cheese and crema or replace them with plant-based alternatives.
- Pairings: Serve tlayudas with a side of Oaxacan-style salsa or a chile de agua sauce for extra heat. They also pair wonderfully with a cold glass of Mexican beer or a refreshing margarita.
Health Benefits
Tlayudas can be a relatively healthy meal, especially when loaded with fresh vegetables and beans. Beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber, while avocados provide heart-healthy fats. You can also control the portion size and toppings to make the dish lighter or more indulgent, depending on your preference.
Tlayuda Variations
There are many regional and personal variations of the tlayuda recipe. Some include meat like tasajo (thin slices of marinated beef) or cecina (salted, dried beef or pork), while others may feature a variety of vegetables, such as squash blossoms, roasted peppers, or pickled onions. The beauty of a tlayuda is its flexibility – it can be adapted to suit any taste or dietary preference.
Why You Should Try Tlayuda
This tlayuda recipe is not only a delicious introduction to Oaxacan cuisine but also a great way to bring a piece of Mexican culture into your kitchen. Its combination of textures – from the crispy tortilla to the creamy beans and the fresh, crunchy veggies – makes it a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a fun party dish.
Historical Significance of Tlayuda
The tlayuda is a dish that dates back hundreds of years, with deep roots in Oaxacan cuisine. The large, crispy tortilla base is a traditional staple in the region, where corn has been cultivated and consumed for millennia. Corn tortillas have been used by indigenous peoples like the Zapotecs and Mixtecs, long before the Spanish colonization of Mexico. The creation of tlayudas as a street food evolved from the practicality of having a durable, portable, and filling meal. Historically, tlayudas were often eaten by farmers and workers in the fields because they could be made with inexpensive ingredients and offered a nourishing meal.
The Importance of Corn in Oaxacan Cuisine
Corn is the foundation of Mexican cuisine, and in Oaxaca, it is especially revered. The process of nixtamalization – where corn is soaked and cooked with lime – has been used for centuries to make tortillas and tlayudas. This process makes corn more nutritious and digestible, turning it into masa, the dough used for tortillas, tamales, and tlayudas. The large, thicker tortillas used for tlayudas are an integral part of the region’s gastronomy, showcasing the importance of corn in Oaxacan culture and its ability to create a wide range of delicious, hearty dishes.
Alternative Toppings and Regional Variations
While this recipe focuses on refried beans, chorizo, and Oaxacan cheese, the possibilities for topping tlayudas are almost endless. Each household in Oaxaca might have its version of the dish, reflecting the ingredients they have on hand or personal preferences. Here are some popular toppings you can try:
- Tasajo – Thin, grilled slices of beef, a popular topping in many regions of Oaxaca.
- Cecina – Salted, dried pork or beef that is grilled and sliced, adding a delicious savory flavor.
- Chapulines (Grasshoppers) – A common and traditional ingredient in Oaxacan cuisine, adding a crunchy texture and a slightly nutty flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables – You can elevate the flavor profile by adding roasted squash, peppers, onions, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Salsas – Whether you prefer a fresh pico de gallo, a smoky chipotle salsa, or a tangy tomatillo salsa, adding salsa can bring a burst of freshness and heat to the tlayuda.
- Herbs and Greens – Adding fresh cilantro, arugula, or radish slices on top provides a crisp contrast to the warm, rich toppings.
Tlayuda: A Symbol of Oaxacan Identity
In Oaxaca, food is more than just sustenance; it is a symbol of cultural identity, history, and pride. The tlayuda is one of the most iconic dishes in the region, often served at celebrations, gatherings, and even street fairs. It represents the deep connection the Oaxacan people have to their land and their ingredients, from the native corn to the locally made Oaxacan cheese. In many ways, tlayudas are a testament to the diversity of Mexican cuisine – showcasing how one dish can be both simple and complex, with variations found in every household or community.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Tlayuda
- Crispiness is Key: The tortilla base needs to be crisp and sturdy enough to hold the toppings without getting soggy. If you’re using a pre-made tortilla or tlayuda base, ensure it’s toasted or baked until golden brown before adding the toppings.
- Layering: When building your tlayuda, start with a thin layer of refried beans. This base helps hold everything together and ensures that the other toppings don’t slide off when you take a bite.
- Balance of Flavors: One of the beautiful things about a tlayuda is the balance of textures and flavors – creamy beans, savory chorizo, crisp cabbage, and fresh avocado. Be mindful of not overloading the tlayuda with too many heavy toppings so that each bite offers a harmonious combination.
- Oaxacan Cheese Substitutes: If you can’t find quesillo, which is the traditional Oaxacan cheese, mozzarella is an excellent substitute due to its mild flavor and melty texture. However, you could also try using cotija cheese if you prefer a stronger, crumbly cheese.
- Homemade Tlayuda Base: If you’re up for an adventure, you can make your own tlayuda base by pressing fresh masa into large, thin circles and toasting them over a comal (a traditional Mexican griddle) or in the oven until they’re firm and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Shareable Appetizer: Tlayudas make a great shareable appetizer at parties or gatherings. Simply slice it like you would a pizza and let your guests enjoy the various toppings.
- Pair with Mexican Sides: Serve your tlayuda with classic Mexican side dishes such as elote (grilled corn), arroz (rice), or frijoles (beans) for a complete and hearty meal.
- Family-Style Meal: Tlayudas are perfect for a family-style meal where each person can customize their toppings. Set out bowls of different toppings like grilled chicken, jalapeños, radishes, salsa, and lime, and let everyone build their own version.
Health Benefits of Tlayuda
- High in Fiber: Thanks to the refried beans and vegetables, tlayudas are high in fiber, supporting digestive health.
- Good Source of Protein: The combination of beans and chorizo (or any other meat) makes this dish a great source of protein. For those looking for a meat-free version, beans alone are still an excellent protein-rich option.
- Rich in Nutrients: Avocados, one of the key toppings, are loaded with heart-healthy fats, potassium, and vitamins. You can add even more nutrients by incorporating a variety of fresh veggies into the toppings.
Tlayuda in Popular Culture
The rise of Mexican street food culture worldwide has brought the tlayuda into the spotlight. With the growing popularity of Oaxacan cuisine, tlayudas are now being featured in high-end restaurants and casual eateries alike. In 2020, the tlayuda gained international fame when it was named “Mexico’s Favorite Street Food” in a Netflix street food competition, further elevating its status on the global culinary scene.
Conclusion: Why Tlayudas Should Be on Your Menu
The tlayuda is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience that connects you with the heart of Oaxaca. It’s a versatile dish that you can customize to fit your dietary preferences, and its combination of flavors and textures makes it irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or exploring the world of authentic Mexican cuisine, this tlayuda with refried beans and chorizo is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress!