Crisp, Spicy, Unforgettable: Summer Tostadas

Bright and spicy, these crunchy tostadas are best served on a balmy summer’s evening with a full-bodied, moderately oaked red. In this recipe, the earthy, slightly smoky flavor of the chorizo is balanced by chilled cilantro lime crema and brightly flavored cabbage slaw. Pair them with a glass of our Trouvère Tempranillo Reserve and you’ve got a match made in heaven!

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Recipe

INGREDIENTS

For the Cilantro-Lime Crema:

  • 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • 1 lime, zested and halved (reserve juice from half for the crema)
  • 1/2 small bunch cilantro, leaves minced
  • Sea salt and pepper, to taste

 

For the Tostadas:

    • 4 large Mexican chorizo sausages
    • 12 small fresh corn tortillas
    • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
    • 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
    • Lime wedges, for garnish

 

 

Optional Toppings:

  • Crumbled Mexican queso fresco

  • Thinly sliced radishes

  • Red onion

  • Avocado

Instructions

  • Make the Crema: In a small bowl, whisk together the crema, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir in the minced cilantro, cover, and refrigerate to chill.
  • Cook the Chorizo: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the casings from the sausages and crumble them into the skillet. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7–10 minutes until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Fry the Tortillas: Pour 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a small frying pan and heat over medium. Fry each tortilla until bubbles form and edges are lightly browned, about several seconds per side. Drain on paper towels.
  • Cook the Slaw: Drain most of the oil from the frying pan, return it to the heat, and sauté the shredded cabbage for 1–2 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of rice vinegar. Continue cooking until slightly softened.
  • Assemble the Tostadas: Spread a generous dollop of cilantro-lime crema on each tortilla. Top with chorizo and sautéed cabbage. Garnish with lime wedges and any optional toppings. Serve immediately.