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Pork Tostadas with Refried Beans and Salsa

Elina James
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pork Filling:
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground pork (or shredded cooked pork)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup tomato sauce or salsa (optional for moisture)
  • For the Refried Beans:
  • 1 can (15 oz) refried beans (or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp water (to loosen, if needed)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • For the Fresh Salsa:
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
  • ½ small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • For the Tostadas:
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • Oil spray or a little olive oil
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Shredded lettuce or cabbage
  • Diced avocado or guacamole
  • Crumbled cotija or feta cheese
  • Sour cream or Mexican crema
  • Lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Tostada Shells
  • Oven Method:
  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Lightly brush or spray both sides of the tortillas with oil.
  • Place on a baking sheet and bake for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
  • Frying Method (optional): Heat ¼ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry tortillas one at a time for 30–45 seconds per side until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
  • Step 2: Cook the Pork : Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft (about 2–3 minutes). Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add ground pork and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add a little tomato sauce or salsa if the mixture seems dry. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
  • Step 3: Warm the Refried Beans : In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low-medium heat. Add the refried beans and stir until smooth and warmed through. Add water or broth as needed for a creamy texture.
  • Step 4: Make the Salsa : In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Stir well and taste for seasoning.
  • Step 5: Assemble the Tostadas : Spread a layer of refried beans on each crispy tostada shell. Top with a generous spoonful of seasoned pork. Add a layer of fresh salsa. Garnish with lettuce, avocado, cheese, and a drizzle of crema or sour cream. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime.