Tacos de Canasta, or “basket tacos,” are a beloved Mexican street food known for their portability and unique preparation. Originating from Mexico City, these tacos are assembled and steamed in large baskets, resulting in a unique texture and flavor. They often come with various fillings such as potatoes, beans, or chicharrón, making them a versatile and satisfying snack. In this recipe we will describe the most common version, which uses a filling of refried beans, adorned with a hint of onions.
| Country | Mexico |
| Degree of Difficulty | Easy |
| Type of Food | Snack Starter Main Course |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Serving Size | 12 tacos |
Ingredients:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups refried beans
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Optional: Sliced jalapeños for added spice
Instructions:
- Mix masa harina, salt, and water to form a dough.
- Shape the dough into small balls and press them into tortillas.
- Spread a spoonful of refried beans onto each tortilla.
- Sprinkle chopped onions (and jalapeños if desired) over the beans.
- Fold the tortillas into half-moon shapes.
- Place folded tacos in a basket and steam for 20 minutes.
- Serve with salsa and enjoy the timeless taste!
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, based on traditional refried beans filling)
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Fat | 3g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Fiber | 5g |
Optional Additions or Substitutions:
- Experiment with regional variations like adding crumbled queso fresco or a drizzle of crema.
- Include jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Tips or Variations:
- Ensure the refried beans are well-distributed for a balanced flavor.
- Traditional Tacos de Canasta are often enjoyed with a side of lime wedges.
Other Countries:
- Tacos de Canasta are primarily a Mexican street food, showcasing regional variations within Mexico itself.
Allergen Checklist:
- Gluten-free (if using certified gluten-free masa harina)
- May contain allergens based on chosen fillings
- Suitable for Vegan/Vegeterian, with plant-based fillings like refried beans and onions.
