This last weekend, I went to Tampa to spend some time with the family. Little did I know that I was going to get a special treat – tostadas for supper!
For those not in the know, tostadas are like flat tacos or Mexican pizza – whichever description you choose, they are tasty.
I’m lucky to get my dad’s tostadas once every two or three years. He doesn’t like ‘em but Mom and I do – so, after our begging finally wins out, he breaks out the shells, refried beans, Spanish rice, and all the other fixin’s.
Why I have never attempted to make tostadas myself remains a mystery. Up until this last weekend, it never occurred to me that I could even try.
To be honest, frying things makes me nervous. I’ve reported on too many house fires sparked by grease – the very thing you need to crisp up the flour tortilla shells to make the base of your tostada.
Dad throws several tablespoons of Crisco in a small cast iron skillet and gets it nearly smoking hot before dunking a shell. Twenty-thirty seconds later, he pulls it out and sets it on a wire rack to cool.
Sounds simple enough – but I’m not yet ready to brave it. Besides, I just gorged myself on them this weekend – and took home leftovers!
Eight fully-loaded tostadas in three days – I’m set for a while. Or at least a couple months. Wouldn’t want to burn out on a good thing, right?
I can’t speak for the tostadas’ authenticity – I’m sure they’ve been Americanized. But, really, what ethnic food served in America (aside from that in immigrants’ own households) has been adjusted in some way?
Our tostadas consist of a fried flour tortilla – 6 inches, smeared with refried beans and topped with Spanish rice and shredded cheese and sprinkled with any of the following – lettuce, tomato, onion, green onion, and bell pepper. Sometimes, a dollop of sour cream tops it off.
To go along with the tostadas, we serve salsa and tortilla chips, along with guacamole and occasionally pico de gallo.
Sangria, Margaritas, Corona or even a simple soda help to wash it all down. I do recommend milk if you spike your tostada with hot sauce!
If you’ve never had a tostada before, a word of warning…
They can be tricky things. One wrong bite and the shell will split right down the middle, causing all the toppings to drop to your plate, placemat and floor beside you.
If you have a dog, he’ll be quite happy. If not, then break out the vacuum!
Your mom probably told you growing up that you shouldn’t play with your food. This is one meal where it is not only allowed, it’s encouraged.
I’ll let you know when I decide to brave the frying process – just keep your fingers crossed that I don’t burn down the kitchen.
Until next time,
Happy Eats!
