🇲🇽 Mexican Cuisine · Street Food

Memelas

Prep

15 mins

Cook

10 mins

Serves

4

Difficulty

Easy

Oval masa cakes from Mexico City patted thin and topped with frijoles, salsa, and a crumbling of fresh cheese.

Ingredients

  • 500g pork shoulder
  • 300g pinto beans
  • a handful of minced garlic
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • a generous handful of white onions
  • a handful of fresh oregano, chopped
  • pickled red onions, for serving
  • 2 cups chicken stock

Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the masa dough base and set it aside to rest while you get the filling ready.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, combine the cured chorizo, jalapeños, minced garlic, and chili powder, mixing well so everything is evenly seasoned.

  3. 3

    Heat olive oil in a skillet, wok, or on a griddle over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  4. 4

    Cook the masa dough until lightly golden on each side, then transfer to a warm plate.

  5. 5

    Fry, grill, or steam the cured chorizo mixture until cooked through and lightly charred at the edges, about 10 mins.

  6. 6

    Assemble by layering the masa dough with the filling, a spoonful of pickled red onions, and a scattering of cilantro.

  7. 7

    Add a final touch of lime wedges for extra flavor and texture.

  8. 8

    Serve immediately while hot, with extra pickled red onions on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Tips

Prep all your fillings and toppings before you start cooking, since this dish comes together quickly once the heat is on.

Serve immediately for the best contrast between a crisp exterior and a warm, tender filling.

Keep the olive oil hot but not smoking — a thermometer helps you nail the perfect frying or grilling temperature.