Cuisine: Baleadas - iconic street food of Honduras - how prepared
Baleadas are the most iconic street food of Honduras, loved for their simplicity, flavor, and affordability. They consist of a thick, soft flour tortilla, usually folded in half and filled with refried red beans, cream (mantequilla), and crumbled cheese. Over time, variations have emerged, including fillings with eggs, avocado, plantains, chicken, beef, or even seafood.
They are considered a national dish, eaten for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or as a quick snack, and are especially popular in San Pedro Sula, Tegucigalpa, and along the northern coast.
Ingredients (Basic Baleada)
For the Tortilla:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm water (adjust as needed)
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups refried red beans (traditionally frijoles rojos)
- ½ cup crumbled cheese (queso fresco or feta-style cheese)
- ½ cup Honduran-style sour cream (mantequilla crema)
Optional Add-ons (for variations):
- Scrambled eggs
- Avocado slices
- Hot sauce
- Plantains
- Ground beef or chicken
How Baleadas Are Prepared
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Prepare the Dough
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add oil or lard, then slowly incorporate warm water until a soft dough forms.
- Knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth.
- Cover with a cloth and let rest for 30 minutes.
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Shape the Tortillas
- Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Roll out each ball into a circle (about 6–8 inches in diameter).
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Cook the Tortillas
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Cook each tortilla for about 1–2 minutes on each side until slightly golden but still soft and pliable.
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Prepare the Filling
- Heat the refried beans until creamy.
- Have the cheese and cream ready.
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Assemble the Baleada
- Place one warm tortilla on a plate.
- Spread a generous spoonful of refried beans.
- Add cream and sprinkle with cheese.
- Fold the tortilla in half, and it’s ready to serve!
🌮 Serving Suggestions
- Traditionally eaten warm, sometimes with a hot coffee or juice.
- Street vendors often prepare them fresh, adding extras like eggs, avocado, or meat depending on the customer’s choice.
Quick Snapshot:
- Origin → Honduras (national dish)
- Base Ingredients → Flour tortillas, refried red beans, cream, cheese
- Preparation → Homemade tortilla + bean filling, folded and served warm
- Variations → With eggs, avocado, plantains, or meat
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