Authentic Mexican Huaraches

Classic Mexican huaraches with savory toppings.

This authentic recipe for Mexican huaraches is made from scratch with thick oval-shaped masa tortillas. It is topped with refried beans, seasoned beef, and classic Mexican toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole salsa, and cheese. Huaraches are a popular street food in central Mexico, often enjoyed as an appetizer or a fulfilling meal.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 10 huaraches

Full Ingredient List

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 pounds beef chuck steak
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups refried beans
  • 2 1/2 cups pico de gallo
  • guacamole salsa (as needed)
  • 1/2 cup queso fresco
  • additional salt for seasoning

Huaraches

Tools and Equipment

Ingredients

Quantity Name Preparation Notes Substitutions
2 cups masa harina none
1 1/2 cups water adjust as needed
1 teaspoon salt none

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Combine masa harina, salt, and water in a bowl. (Tips: Adjust water according to humidity and weather to achieve a smooth dough.)
  2. Step 2: Knead for 2 minutes to achieve a smooth and non-sticky dough. (Tips: The dough should be smooth, like play-dough.)
  3. Step 3: Heat a griddle over medium heat.
  4. Step 4: Divide the dough into 10 balls, cover with a damp towel. (Tips: Use a damp towel to prevent drying.)
  5. Step 5: Shape each dough ball into a 6-inch long log and flatten to form an oblong shape. (Tips: Use plastic sheets and a heavy dish to help shape the dough.)
  6. Step 6: Cook each huarache on the griddle for 1-2 minutes on each side until it has dark spots. (Tips: Keep cooked huaraches wrapped in a towel to maintain warmth.)

Meat Topping

Tools and Equipment

Ingredients

Quantity Name Preparation Notes Substitutions
1 1/2 pounds beef chuck steak cut into small bites chicken, pork, mushrooms, zucchini
1 medium onion sliced
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder none
1 teaspoon cumin powder none
1/2 teaspoon pepper none
2 tablespoons olive oil none vegetable oil
to taste salt none

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat oil in a pan and add the beef pieces. (Tips: Ensure the oil is hot before adding beef.)
  2. Step 2: Season the beef with garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. (Tips: Adjust seasoning to preference.)
  3. Step 3: Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the meat is no longer pink. (Tips: Stir occasionally to cook evenly.)
  4. Step 4: Add onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 10 minutes. (Tips: Cover the pan to help soften the onions.)

Assembly

Tools and Equipment

Ingredients

Quantity Name Preparation Notes Substitutions
2 cups refried beans none
2 1/2 cups pico de gallo none
as needed guacamole salsa none
1/2 cup queso fresco none Cotija, queso ranchero, feta

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Place each cooked huarache on a plate and spread with refried beans. (Tips: Ensure an even layer of beans.)
  2. Step 2: Top with beef and onion mixture. (Tips: Distribute toppings evenly.)
  3. Step 3: Add pico de gallo and drizzle with guacamole salsa. (Tips: Add salsa to taste.)
  4. Step 4: Sprinkle with cheese and serve immediately. (Tips: Serve warm for best flavor.)

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 294
  • Protein: 17g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 2g

Additional Information

Notes: Adjust water in masa dough based on kitchen humidity. This recipe easily adapts with various toppings.

Background: Huaraches are named for their sandal-like shape and are a staple in Mexican street food culture.

Geographic Region: Central Mexico

Seasonality: Year-round

Occasion: Street food festivals, family gatherings

Recommended Pairings

  • Horchata
  • Mexican Corn on the Cob

Tags

Mexican cuisine street food appetizer traditional savory