Red Chile Tostadas Recipe: Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
Nothing beats the bold flavors of red chile tostadas, especially when topped with creamy beans, fried eggs, and a crispy tortilla.
This dish is an explosion of textures—crunchy, tangy, creamy, and drippy—making it an unforgettable meal. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, this easy recipe is a winner every time.
The Ultimate Red Chile Tostadas Recipe
These red chile tostadas are a delicious combination of fried corn tortillas, refried black beans, runny eggs cooked in enchilada sauce, and crispy cheddar cheese edges. Topped with pickled red onions, cilantro, and avocado, they deliver the perfect balance of richness and freshness.
Ingredients
For the Tostadas:
- 6 corn tortillas
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup avocado oil (or vegetable oil for frying)
- One 14-ounce can refried black beans
- 1 cup red enchilada sauce (Siete Foods Red Enchilada Sauce is highly recommended)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 eggs
Optional Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Pickled red onions
Instructions
1. Make the Pickled Red Onions (Optional)
Thinly slice a red onion using a mandoline for uniform pieces. Transfer slices to a jar and add white vinegar.
Fill the jar with water, a pinch of salt, and sugar. Shake well and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes. These can be stored for up to three days.
2. Fry the Tortillas
Heat avocado oil over medium heat in a cast-iron skillet. Once the oil is hot, fry each tortilla for one to two minutes per side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with salt.
3. Fry the Eggs in Enchilada Sauce
Wipe the skillet clean and return it to medium heat. Pour a few tablespoons of enchilada sauce into the pan, creating small pools for the eggs.
Carefully crack eggs into the sauce, allowing them to cook until whites are set (about four to five minutes). For crispy edges, sprinkle cheddar cheese around the eggs in the last two minutes.
4. Assemble the Tostadas
Once the eggs are ready, begin layering:
- Crispy tortilla
- Refried black beans
- Fried egg
- Pickled red onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Avocado slices
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Red Chile Tostadas
Can You Use Pre-Made Tostadas?
Yes! Store-bought tostadas save time and effort. However, freshly fried corn tortillas offer unbeatable crispiness and flavor.
Can You Bake Tostadas Instead of Frying?
Baking makes them chewy rather than crispy, so frying is the best method.
How to Make These Ahead
Prepare the beans, pickled onions, and tortillas in advance. When ready to serve, simply fry the eggs and assemble.
Can This Be Made Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Just omit the cheddar cheese, and it’s a delicious dairy-free meal.
Best Pan for Cooking Tostadas
A cast-iron skillet is perfect for frying tortillas, while a non-stick pan works best for eggs.
FAQs
What other toppings work well with red chile tostadas?
Try adding sour cream, queso fresco, radishes, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes! Pinto beans, black beans, or even white beans work great.
How can I store leftovers?
Store tortillas separately to keep them crispy. Beans and toppings can be refrigerated for two to three days.
Can I make this spicy?
Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beans or enchilada sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Corn tortillas and all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
References