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The Recipe · No.143 · Tostadas

Tostadas, and where to source it

Tostadas — 5best2buy.com 5BEST2BUY.COM Tostadas Mexican 5best2buy.com

Everything rides on the base here. A real corn tortilla fried until it snaps beats a stale bagged shell every time. Fry them flat in shallow oil and don't pull them until they go stiff and rigid, because a shell with any give left in it turns to a soggy plate the moment you load it.

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

Prep20 min
Cook15 min
Makes8 tostadas
CuisineMexican
Cost$
VegetarianGluten-free
Contains  dairy
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for 8 tostadas
Corn tortillas
Real masa tortillas fry into a base that shatters cleanly.
8
Source it →
Dried black beans
Heirloom beans mash into a smooth, well-flavored refried layer.
2 cups cooked
Source it →
Cotija or queso fresco
A salty, crumbly cheese that stands up to the crunch.
3/4 cup
Source it →
Lettuce and avocado
Shredded lettuce and sliced avocado for cool contrast.
2 cups, 1 avocado
Avocado →
The Rundown
Greedometer ●●●●● Getting greedy
Rich enough that Mom might raise an eyebrow.
EffortEasy
Cook it with
Air fryerInstant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
  1. Fry the shellsShallow-fry each tortilla flat in hot oil, flipping once, until stiff and golden, then drain on a rack.
  2. Mash the beansFry cooked beans in a little lard or oil, mashing to a spreadable paste and seasoning with salt.
  3. Spread the baseSmear a thick layer of warm beans across each crisp shell so it glues the toppings down.
  4. Top and finishLayer lettuce, avocado, and a heavy crumble of cheese just before serving so the shell stays crisp.
The Toolkit

Deep skillet · Wire rack · Slotted spatula

Straight Answers
Can you make Tostadas 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 Tostadas? — 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 Tostadas ahead of time? — Yes

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

Is Tostadas 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 Tostadas vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan

It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.

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© 2026 5best2buy.com · Recipe No.143

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