Mexican Chalupa Recipe
A Mexican Chalupa is a thick, fried tortilla shell filled with a combination of meat, salsa, cheese, lettuce, vegetables, and finished with a dollop of sour cream. Believed to have originated in the south-central Mexican states of Puebla and Oaxaca, the dish’s exact roots are still debated. The term “chalupa” comes from the name of a small Aztec boat, referencing the shape of the fried tortilla shell.Chalupas are popular at family gatherings, celebrations, and festivals, frequently found as street food or at fairs. Although they typically start with a thick, fried tortilla base, toppings vary by region. For instance, Chalupas Poblanas feature shredded meat and cheese, while Chalupas Oaxaqueñas are topped with black bean paste, shredded cabbage, and chili sauce.
Ingredients
- Corn Tortillas – 6
- Refried beans – 1 cup
- Shredded cooked chicken or beef – 1 cup
- Lettuce, shredded – 1 cup
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Fry the corn tortillas one at a time until they become crisp and slightly puffed, about 1-2 minutes per side. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Spread a generous spoonful of refried beans on each tortilla.
- Top the beans with shredded lettuce, followed by the cooked chicken or beef.
- Drizzle sour cream and salsa over the toppings.
- Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco on top and add a pinch of salt if desired.
Nutrition
Calories: 457kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 77mgSodium: 788mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3g
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