What’s a Tlayuda?
Meet Oaxaca’s ultimate party dish the tlayuda. Imagine an oversized tortilla toasted to perfection, with a crunchy edge and chewy center, layered with smoky black beans, melted cheese, and endless toppings. It’s festive, interactive, and ideal for Taco Tuesday or any time you want something a little different but equally fun to share.
The best part? A tlayuda board turns dinner into an experience. Everyone builds their own masterpiece with vibrant toppings, from grilled meats to spicy salsas and fresh avocado. It’s Oaxaca meets game night and you don’t even need a pizza oven.
Start with a crispy foundation and bold flavors.
You’ll need:
Tlayudas or large flour tortillas bake or griddle until golden and crisp.
Refried black beans blended with garlic, olive oil, and chipotle for smoky depth.
Oaxacan quesillo (string cheese) melt for that stretchy, creamy magic.
Pro tip: Warm the beans before spreading them so they glide on easily and infuse the tortilla with flavor.
Offer a few options so everyone can customize their creation.
Tasajo: Thinly sliced, lime-marinated grilled beef salty and tender.
Chorizo: Crumbled and browned until crispy.
Pollo Adobado: Chicken marinated in achiote paste, orange juice, and garlic.
Shrimp al Mojo de Ajo: Juicy shrimp sautéed in butter, garlic, and lime.
Mushroom & Epazote (Veggie Star): Earthy, herbal, and deliciously satisfying.
The color, crunch, and brightness make the board shine.
Shredded cabbage or lettuce
Sliced avocado
Pickled red onions
Radish slices
Fresh cilantro
Queso fresco crumbles
Arrange toppings in small bowls or directly on the board for easy layering.
Let your guests drizzle, dip, and taste their way through Oaxaca.
Salsa Verde Cruda tomatillo, serrano, and cilantro freshness.
Salsa Macha chile oil with nuts and seeds for smoky heat.
Salsa Roja de Árbol deep red and bold.
Lime Crema cooling, tangy balance to spice.
Bonus idea: Serve lime wedges, chili salt, and Tajín on the side for extra zest.
Set out crispy tlayuda bases on a large board or sheet pan.
Spread the black bean “sauce” as your first layer.
Add melted quesillo or your favorite cheese.
Lay out proteins, veggies, and sauces buffet-style.
Invite everyone to build, drizzle, and bite!
Optional: Return assembled tlayudas to a warm oven for 2–3 minutes to melt cheese and fuse flavors.
This week, skip the tacos and try Tlayuda Tuesday a new tradition.
Post your creations and tag @TacoTuesday.official with #TlayudaTuesday
