Have you ever stumbled upon a dish so unique and flavorful that it instantly transports you to another place? That’s exactly what happened to me the first time I tried tetelas, a traditional Mexican dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or just love exploring new flavors, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into the world of tetelas and uncover why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.
What Are Tetelas?
Tetelas are a traditional Mexican dish hailing from the state of Oaxaca. Imagine a triangular pocket of corn masa dough, stuffed with a savory mix of black beans and Oaxacan cheese, then cooked to crispy perfection on a hot skillet. Sounds delicious, right? But what makes tetelas stand out from other Mexican staples like tlacoyos or gorditas?
For starters, their unique triangular shape is a visual treat. Plus, they’re not fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, tetelas are versatile, satisfying, and oh-so-easy to customize.
Why You’ll Love Tetelas
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a handful of ingredients like masa harina, black beans, and cheese, tetelas are proof that great food doesn’t need to be complicated.
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, you can whip up a batch of tetelas in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Endless Customization: Swap out the filling, add your favorite toppings, or experiment with different salsas—tetelas are a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Tetelas Recipe: Authentic Mexican Triangular Masa Delight with Black Beans and Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 can black beans or 1 ½ cups cooked black beans
- 1 jalapeño optional, for a kick of heat
- 1 clove garlic
- ¼ white onion
- 15 ounces shredded Oaxaca cheese or Monterey Jack as a substitute
- Toppings: Mexican crema salsa, chopped cilantro, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Heat a skillet with a tablespoon of oil. Sauté the onion, garlic, and jalapeño until golden. Add the black beans and simmer. Season with salt to taste. Blend the mixture until smooth. Set aside.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix masa harina and salt. Gradually add warm water and knead until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into 15 equal balls and cover with a damp cloth to keep them moist.
- Assemble the Tetelas: Flatten each dough ball using a tortilla press lined with parchment paper. Place a spoonful of the bean mixture and a sprinkle of cheese in the center.
- Fold the dough into a triangle, pressing gently to seal the edges.
- Cook and Serve: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each tetela for about 3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like Mexican crema, salsa, and fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Keep masa dough moist by dipping hands in warm water while shaping.
- Use Oaxaca cheese for authentic flavor, or substitute with Monterey Jack or Chihuahua cheese.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a damp paper towel in the microwave or on a skillet.
Images Credit: Isabel Eats
Tips for Perfect Tetelas
- Keep the Dough Moist: Masa dough can dry out quickly, so keep a bowl of warm water nearby to dampen your hands as you work.
- Experiment with Fillings: While the classic black bean and cheese combo is a winner, feel free to get creative. Try fillings like chile verde, picadillo, or even shredded chicken.
- Use a Tortilla Press: If you don’t have one, a rolling pin works too, but a press makes the process much easier.
Serving Suggestions
Tetelas are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a main dish with a side of guacamole and salsa, or cut them into smaller pieces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. They’re also great for meal prep—just reheat them in a skillet or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
Why Tetelas Are a Must-Try
Tetelas are more than just a dish—they’re a celebration of Mexican culture and culinary tradition. Their unique shape, rich flavors, and endless customization options make them a standout in the world of Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, tetelas are a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your masa harina and get ready to create a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Trust me, once you try tetelas, you’ll be hooked!
Looking for More Mexican Recipes?
Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Mexican vibes to your kitchen:
- Traditional Tuna Ceviche Recipe
- Salmon Tacos
- Mexican Atole Recipe
- Marranitos (Mexican Gingerbread Pigs)
- Authentic Chili Relleno Recipe
- Mexican Green Spaghetti
Give these recipes a try and bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your table!
Tried This Recipe?
I’d love to hear how this Tetelas Recipe turned out! Leave a comment or tag @foodiecreator on Instagram, and #foodiecreator on social media to show off your creation.
.