Catrachas Crujientes (Crispy Corn Tostadas with Refried Red Beans & Aged Cheese) – Authentic Honduras Recipe

Crunchy Honduran tostadas smeared with deeply savory fried red beans and salty grated cheese.

Country of Origin
🇭🇳 Honduras (Central America, Americas)
Dietary Profile
vegetarian
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
20 min
Difficulty
Easy
Signature Staples
Crispy corn tortillas, Silky Honduran refried red beans, Grated queso seco/cotija and tomato chismol, Sweet onion, Garlic

Ingredients for Catrachas Crujientes (Crispy Corn Tostadas with Refried Red Beans & Aged Cheese) (4 Servings)

  • 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) crispy corn tortillas, prepped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1.5 cups silky Honduran refried red beans, washed and trimmed
  • 1 cup grated queso seco/cotija and tomato chismol
  • 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with sweet onion
  • 1.5 tbsp traditional Honduras seasoning (garlic, sweet bell pepper, cilantro)
  • 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a wide heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Sauté onion, garlic, and sweet onion for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add crispy corn tortillas and silky Honduran refried red beans along with garlic, sweet bell pepper, cilantro, searing for 8–10 minutes while tossing occasionally.
  4. Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or citrus so the caramelized fond coats every bite.
  5. Garnish with grated queso seco/cotija and tomato chismol and serve straight from the skillet.

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