Memelas
Discover the irresistible charm of traditional Mexican memelas, a street food favorite that combines simplicity and bold flavors in every bite. Made with soft, homemade masa dough, these thick, open-faced corn cakes are lightly toasted on a hot skillet, then topped with creamy refried black beans, crumbled queso fresco, and a drizzle of zesty salsa. For an extra layer of indulgence, you can lightly fry the memelas for a deliciously crispy finish. Garnished with fresh cilantro and diced onion, these versatile delights are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, this authentic recipe brings the taste of Oaxaca straight to your table!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1.5 cups warm water
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup refried black beans
- 0.5 cup queso fresco or crumbled cheese
- 0.5 cup salsa (red or green, your choice)
- 2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil (optional for frying)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons finely diced onion (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt.
Slowly add the warm water to the masa harina while mixing with your hands until the dough comes together. The dough should feel soft and pliable, not sticky or dry.
Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and roll them into balls.
Flatten each ball into a thick disk, approximately 4 inches in diameter, using your hands or a tortilla press lined with plastic wrap to prevent sticking.
Heat a large non-stick skillet, comal, or griddle over medium-high heat.
Cook each flattened dough disk on the hot skillet for about 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly golden and cooked through. Use a spatula to flip them carefully.
Once cooked, gently pinch the edges of each disk to create a slight rim (this will form a border to hold the toppings). Be careful as they may still be hot to the touch.
Spread a spoonful of refried black beans onto the center of each memela.
Top with crumbled queso fresco and drizzle with your choice of salsa.
Optional: In a separate skillet, heat the lard or vegetable oil and briefly fry each memela for additional flavor and texture.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and diced onion, if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
289 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.1 g | 14% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1 g | 25% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 19 mg | 6% | |
| Sodium | 555 mg | 24% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 39.3 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.3 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.3 g | ||
| Protein | 9.2 g | 18% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 186 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 317 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
