Worth The Hunt
The Recipe · No.1155 · Panuchos

Panuchos, and where to source it

Panuchos — Worth The Hunt WORTH THE HUNT Panuchos Mexican 5best2buy.com

Puff each tortilla on a hot comal so a pocket forms, then slit the top layer and pack it with a smooth black bean paste. Fry the stuffed tortilla in shallow oil so the base turns crisp and holds firm under the wet toppings instead of going soggy.

By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026

Prep40 min
Cook20 min
Makes12 panuchos
CuisineMexican
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for 12 panuchos
Corn tortillas
Fresh, thin nixtamal tortillas that puff cleanly on the comal.
12
Source it →
Black beans
Cooked with epazote and blended to a smooth, spreadable paste.
2 cups
Local / market
Cochinita pibil
Shredded achiote pork is the traditional topping for a panucho.
2 cups
Local / market
Red onion
Pickled in sour orange and lime for the sharp, pink garnish.
2
Source it →
Habanero
Thinly sliced into the onion for bright heat.
1
Local / market
Epazote
Simmered with the beans for its distinct herbal note.
2 sprigs
Local / market
Avocado
A slice on each panucho for a cool, buttery contrast.
1
Source it →
The Rundown
Greedometer ●●●●● A fair little treat
A reasonable little indulgence.
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Air fryerInstant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
  1. Cook the beansSimmer black beans with epazote until soft, then blend to a smooth paste and reduce it thick enough to spread.
  2. Puff the tortillasHeat a comal hot and cook each tortilla until it balloons. Let the pocket form fully before handling.
  3. StuffSlit the puffed top layer with a knife and spread bean paste inside the pocket, pressing it flat.
  4. FryShallow-fry the stuffed tortillas in hot oil until the base is crisp and golden, about 1 min a side. Drain.
  5. TopLayer on warm cochinita, pickled red onion with habanero, and a slice of avocado.
The Toolkit

Comal · Skillet · Blender

Straight Answers
Can you make Panuchos in an air fryer? — Yes

Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.

Can you freeze Panuchos? — Yes

Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can you make Panuchos ahead of time? — Yes

Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Is Panuchos gluten-free? — Yes

Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.

Is Panuchos vegan? — Yes

Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.

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© 2026 5best2buy · Worth The Hunt · Recipe No.1155