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Tostadas
To make the shells, heat the oil to 180°C in a frying pan just wider than the tortillas and fry the tortillas one at a time for about a minute a side, pressing with a spatula to keep them flat, until golden and rigid. Drain on a rack and salt. Or brush them lightly with oil and bake at 200°C for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Tostadas take?
25 min all in — 10 min prep, 15 min cook. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 8 tostadas. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Very easy.
How spicy is it?
Mild.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Milk. Labels are informational — check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Nut-free.
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What does it cost to cook?
Cheap night — about Under $8 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Frying pan, Saucepan, Oven, Chef's knife.
How much salt do I put in?
The recipe lists Salt at 1 pinch.
What can I use instead?
Refried pinto beans → Refried black beans. The usual choice in the south and south-east of Mexico. Queso fresco → Feta. Saltier. Use about half as much.
Any tips from this recipe?
Quick refried beans: fry a little chopped onion in oil or lard, add cooked beans with some of their broth and mash in the pan until thick. Keep the lettuce dry. Wet lettuce slides off and softens the shell.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.