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Baleadas

Baleadas are a beloved Honduran street food made with soft tortillas, creamy refried beans, and your choice of toppings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 baleadas
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Honduran
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

Tortillas
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or lard
  • 3/4 cup warm water
Filling
  • 1 can 15 oz refried beans
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 cups crumbled quesillo or fresh mozzarella cheese
  • 1 avocado sliced (optional)
  • 4 eggs fried or scrambled (optional protein)
  • Honduran hot sauce or your favorite salsa for serving

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or whisk
  • Cast iron skillet or non-stick pan
  • Tortilla press (optional but helpful)
  • Kitchen scale (optional but useful for precision)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Combine flour and salt in a large mixing bowl, then add the shortening and mix until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
  2. Gradually pour in warm water while mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead for about 2 minutes until smooth.
  4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes.
  5. Heat butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then add the refried beans and garlic powder, stirring for about 3 minutes until warmed.
  6. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
  7. Flatten each ball using a tortilla press or a heavy pot to create a thin disk.
  8. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook each tortilla for about 30-45 seconds on each side.
  9. Transfer cooked tortillas to a clean kitchen towel to keep warm.
  10. Spread warm beans down the center of each tortilla, top with cheese, avocado, and eggs if desired.
  11. Fold the tortilla in half and serve with hot sauce or salsa.

Notes

Customize the fillings based on what you have on hand and enjoy warm for the best flavor.