Tlacoyo: The Delicious Mexican Street Food You Need to Try

If you are a fan of Mexican cuisine, you must have come across the term "tlacoyo". Tlacoyo is a traditional Mexican street food that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a type of thick, oval or elliptical tortilla that is usually filled with bean or cottage cheese dough, which can be seen through a longitudinal cut made in the center of the tortilla.

The origin of the word "tlacoyo" comes from the Nahuatl language, which was spoken by the Aztecs. In Nahuatl, "tlacoyo" means "half-cooked." This name reflects the way the tortilla is cooked. It is first partially cooked on a comal, a flat griddle, and then finished by frying it on a grill or a comal. This gives the tortilla a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.

One of the most popular fillings for tlacoyos is refried beans. The beans are seasoned with herbs and spices and then mashed into a paste. This paste is then used to fill the tlacoyo, giving it a delicious and savory flavor. Other common fillings include requesón, a type of Mexican cottage cheese, and chicharrón prensado, a type of pork rind that has been pressed into a cake.

Tlacoyos are usually served with toppings such as grated cheese, salsa, and nopalitos, which are cactus pads that have been cooked and sliced. The toppings add flavor and texture to the already delicious tlacoyo.

Tlacoyos are not only delicious, but they are also a healthy option for those who are looking for a nutritious and filling meal. The tortilla is made from masa, which is a type of dough made from ground corn. Masa is low in fat and calories and is a good source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Tlacoyos are also a versatile food that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. They are a popular breakfast food in Mexico and are often served with eggs and salsa. They can also be enjoyed as a snack or as a meal on their own.

If you are interested in trying tlacoyos, you don't have to travel to Mexico to do so. Tlacoyos can be found in many Mexican restaurants in the United States, particularly in areas with large Mexican populations. They are also easy to make at home with a few simple ingredients.

To make tlacoyos at home, you will need masa harina, which is a type of corn flour that is used to make tortillas and other Mexican dishes. You will also need water and a filling of your choice, such as refried beans or requesón. Once you have made the dough, you can form it into oval or elliptical shapes and then fill them with your chosen filling. Cook the tlacoyos on a  a griddle until they are partially cooked and then finish them off by frying them on a grill.

In conclusion, tlacoyos are a delicious and nutritious traditional Mexican food that is definitely worth trying. They are a versatile food that can be enjoyed at any time of the day and can be filled with a variety of delicious fillings. If you have the opportunity to try tlacoyos, don't hesitate to do so. You won't be disappointed!