Tostadas de Cueritos are a traditional Mexican dish made with tostadas (crispy fried or toasted corn tortillas) topped with cueritos, which are pickled pork skin or pork rinds.
Texture-wise, Tostadas de Cueritos have a crunchy base from the tostada and a chewy or slightly gelatinous texture from the cueritos. The pork skin is usually pickled in a tangy and spicy sauce made with vinegar, chili peppers, onions, and various spices, giving it a flavorful and slightly chewy consistency.
The pickled pork skin is then chopped or thinly sliced and served as a topping on the crispy tostadas. It’s often accompanied by additional ingredients such as refried beans, lettuce, onions, salsa, avocado, and sometimes a sprinkle of cheese.
Tostadas de Cueritos are appreciated for their unique blend of textures and flavors, offering a mix of crunchy, chewy, tangy, and spicy elements in each bite. This dish is popular in certain regions of Mexico and among those who enjoy the distinctive taste and texture of pickled pork skin.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- For Whom: Perfect for those who appreciate adventurous and bold flavors.
- Estimated Duration: Ready in about 20 minutes, a quick and distinctive choice for those seeking a unique Mexican dish.
- Nutrition Facts: A dish with a combination of textures and flavors, providing a satisfying culinary experience.
About This Recipe
Tostadas de Cueritos showcase the culinary creativity of Mexican cuisine by incorporating cueritos, which are pickled pork skin. The pickling process adds a tangy and savory element, creating a unique tostada that stands out with its bold flavors.
Equipment Required
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
Ingredients
For the Tostadas de Cueritos:
- Corn tostadas
- Cueritos (pickled pork skin), drained and chopped
- Refried beans
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced radishes
- Avocado slices
- Queso fresco (Mexican crumbly cheese)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional Salsas:
- Salsa Roja:
- Tomatoes
- Jalapeños
- Onion
- Garlic
- Salt
- Salsa Verde:
- Tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- Jalapeños
- Onion
- Garlic cloves
- Fresh cilantro
- Salt
Instructions
Tostadas de Cueritos:
- Warm corn tostadas in the oven according to package instructions.
- Spread a layer of refried beans on each tostada.
- Top with chopped cueritos, lettuce, tomatoes, radishes, avocado slices, queso fresco, and cilantro.
Optional Salsas:
- Salsa Roja:
- Blend tomatoes, jalapeños, onion, garlic, and salt until smooth.
- Salsa Verde:
- Blend tomatillos, jalapeños, onion, garlic, cilantro, and salt until smooth.
Side Dishes
- Mexican rice
- Black beans
Storage Options
Tostadas de Cueritos are best enjoyed immediately to maintain their crunch. Store cueritos and tostada toppings separately and assemble just before serving.
Ingredient Substitutes
- Cheese: Cotija or cheddar can replace queso fresco.
- Salsas: Adjust the level of spiciness by adding or reducing the number of jalapeños.
Alternatives to This Meal
For a smoky flavor, add a dash of chipotle powder to the toppings or infuse the refried beans with chipotle for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Tostadas de Cueritos provide a bold and distinctive experience, combining the crunchiness of tostadas with the unique taste of pickled pork skin. This dish invites you to explore the adventurous side of Mexican cuisine, delivering a symphony of flavors that is sure to leave a lasting impression. ¡Buen provecho!
