A real tlayuda is smeared with asiento, the unrefined pork-fat drippings from the bottom of a lard rendering, not with oil. Crisp the big tortilla directly over coals or on a bare comal until it blisters and snaps, then build on it while it is still hot so the beans and quesillo melt into the surface.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep30 min
Cook15 min
Makes4 tlayudas
CuisineMexican
Cost$$$
Dairy-free
Contains gluten
Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4tlayudas
Large tlayuda tortillas
The 12 to 14 inch nixtamal tortilla is thin enough to crisp and wide enough to fold over the filling.
Ready the coalsGet a charcoal fire or a comal medium-hot. Grill the salted beef fast until charred at the edges, then chop it coarse and set aside.
Spread the baseLay a tlayuda on the grate and spread a thin layer of asiento over the whole surface, then a layer of mashed black beans while the tortilla warms.
Melt the cheeseScatter pulled quesillo over the beans and let it soften as the underside crisps, about 3 min. The edges should blister and go rigid.
Top and foldAdd the chopped beef and shredded cabbage, fold the tlayuda in half like a taco, and press it on the grate 1 min a side to seal.
FinishOpen at the table, top with avocado and salsa, and eat while the shell is still snapping crisp.
Can you make Tlayudas in an air fryer? — Sometimes
Sometimes — if the pieces are small and cooked dry, an air fryer can handle it in a single layer; anything saucy or liquid needs a pan. When in doubt, the stovetop or oven is the safe call.
Can you freeze Tlayudas? — 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 Tlayudas ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Tlayudas gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
Is Tlayudas vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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