Crispy Tostadas with Charred Beans & Toppings
Crunchy fried tortillas topped with warm seasoned black beans, sharp cheddar, fresh lettuce, and bright lime crema. Build-your-own style for maximum flavor and customization.
- Total time
- 25 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 520
- Protein
- 16g

Ingredients
- 4 tortillas corn tortillas (6-inch)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (canned)
- ¾ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups fresh lettuce or cabbage, chopped
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ lime lime (juiced)
- ½ tsp cumin
- 2 cups neutral oil for frying
Instructions
- 1
Stir sour cream with lime juice and a pinch of salt. Set the lime crema aside.
- 2
Drain and rinse beans. Stir in cumin, 2 tbsp water, and salt and pepper to taste.
- 3
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high until a tortilla sizzles instantly on contact, ~2 minutes.
- 4
Fry tortilla 60 seconds per side until golden and crispy edges curl slightly. Transfer to paper towels.
- 5
Repeat with remaining tortillas. Warm the seasoned beans in the same skillet, stirring, for 2 minutes.
- 6
Spread 2 tbsp warm beans on each tostada. Layer lettuce, then cheese.
- 7
Drizzle lime crema over the top. Serve immediately.
Tools you’ll need
- large skillet (12-inch)
- small bowl
- slotted spoon or tongs
- paper towels
- cutting board
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