Spicy Belizean Garnaches

Crispy Tortillas with Savory Refried Beans and Cheese

A delightful Belizean street food snack featuring crunchy tortillas topped with spiced refried beans, fresh cheese, and a zesty salsa.

1 h 10 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Garnaches

12 small corn tortillas

1 cup vegetable oil

For the Refried Beans

1 cup cooked black beans

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 onion

finely chopped

2 cloves garlic

minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

For the Cheese Topping

1 cup fresh farmer’s cheese

crumbled

1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

For the Salsa

2 tomatoes

diced

1/2 red onion

finely chopped

1 jalapeño

seeded and minced

1 tablespoon lime juice

1/4 cup fresh cilantro

chopped

Salt to taste

Preparation

Marinating the Salsa

Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro.

Season Salsa

Season with salt to taste.

Chill

Allow flavors to meld for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Preparing the Refried Beans

Heat Oil

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Sauté Aromatics

Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Cook Beans

Add cooked black beans and cumin, mashing until smooth. Season with salt.

Make sure beans are thoroughly mashed to achieve a smooth consistency. Pro Tip: Use a potato masher or fork for best results.

Cooking Process

Frying the Tortillas

Heat 1 cup vegetable oil in a pan and fry tortillas until golden and crispy.

Layering the Garnaches

Spread refried beans over each fried tortilla, then sprinkle with crumbled cheese.

Final Touches

Top with prepared salsa before serving.

Plating & Serving

Spicy Belizean Garnaches

FaUtensils

Plating & Serving

Arrange the garnaches on a large platter, slightly overlapping, with a small bowl of extra salsa on the side for dipping.

Sauce Pairings

Fresh Tomato Salsa

adds a zesty kick

Avocado Puree

smooth and creamy

Garnishes & Accompaniments

Fresh cilantro leavesLime wedges

Perfect Sides

Pickled red onions

Spiced rice