Affordable Family Meals: Flavourful Beef and Black Bean Tostados Recipe Under $20

Looking for a budget-friendly and delicious meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than our Beef and Black Bean Tostadas recipe! Made with simple and affordable ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast.

Makes 12 tostados | Prep 30 minutes

Ingredients

Tortillas

• 240 g (2 cups) masa harina corn flour ($2)
• 250 ml (1 cup) water

Beef and Black Bean Topping:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely diced ($0.75)
• 500 g (1 packet) minced beef ($10)
• 400 g (1 tin) black beans ($1.25)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp oregano
• 250 g (1 punnet) cherry tomatoes, halved ($3)
• 4 tbsp salsa ($1)
• 1 avocado, thinly sliced ($1)
• 100 g (1 cup) cheddar, grated ($1)

Method:

Tortillas

1. In a bowl, gradually add water to corn flour, mixing to combine. Be careful not to pour in too much water at once. Add small amounts at a time until a dough consistency is formed which doesn’t stick to your hand.
2. Weigh out 40 g portions of dough. Place on tortilla press then set aside.
3. Heat cast iron pan over a high heat and toast each tortilla for 2-3 minutes on each side or until slightly golden.
4. Keep warm in the oven until the toppings are ready.

Beef and Black Bean Topping

1. Heat oil over a medium heat in a large pan. Add onion and sauté for five minutes until soft and translucent.
2. Add mince and cook until it changes colour.
3. Add smoked paprika, oregano, and black beans. Stir to combine and allow simmering for five minutes.
4. Remove tortillas from the oven and place on your favourite We Might Be Tiny Picnies Plate. Top with beef and bean mixture, grated cheese, salsa, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
5. Also delicious with sour cream/chipotle.

Notes: This recipe makes 12 tostadas, perfect for feeding a family or for leftovers the next day.

Ways to customise your toppings using ingredients on-hand

Customising your toppings for Beef and Black Bean Tostadas is not only a great way to use up ingredients you already have (and save a little more!) but also allows you to tailor the dish to suit your family's tastes. Here are some ideas for customising your toppings:

• Vegetarian Variation: If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the minced beef and double the amount of black beans. You can also add other vegetables such as capsicum, zucchini, or corn for added flavour and texture.
• Spice it Up: If you like your food spicy, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chilli powder to the beef and black bean mixture. You can also serve the tostadas with a side of hot sauce or salsa for an extra kick.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese is the traditional choice for tostadas, you can also experiment with other types of cheese such as Havarti, Gouda, or Feta. Each cheese will add its own unique flavour to the dish.
• Fresh Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your fresh toppings. Avocado, cherry tomatoes, and salsa are classic choices, but you can also add other ingredients such as shredded lettuce, diced onions, cilantro, or lime wedges for a burst of freshness.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yoghurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yoghurt can add a creamy element to your tostadas. You can also mix the sour cream with some chipotle powder or adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Additional Proteins: If you're looking to add more protein to your meal, consider topping your tostadas with cooked chicken, pork, or shrimp. Simply season the protein with some spices that complement the flavours of the dish.
• Serving Suggestions: While the tostadas are delicious on their own, you can also serve them with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad to round out the meal.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your perfect tostada!

Tips and tricks to help you create budget-friendly meals

1. Plan Your Meals: Planning your meals in advance can help you make the most of your ingredients and avoid unnecessary purchases. Take inventory of what you already have in your pantry and fridge, and plan your meals around those items. This can help reduce food waste and save you money.
2. Buy in Bulk: Buying staple ingredients like rice, beans, pasta, and spices in bulk can help you save money in the long run. These items have a long shelf life and can be used in a variety of dishes, making them great pantry staples for budget-friendly cooking.
3. Use Seasonal Produce: Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often more affordable and flavorful than their out-of-season counterparts. Shop for produce that is in season and plan your meals around those ingredients to save money.
4. Cook in Bulk and Freeze: Cooking in bulk and freezing leftovers can save you time and money. Prepare large batches of meals and freeze them in individual portions for quick and easy meals later on. This can also help you avoid the temptation of ordering takeout on busy nights.
5. Get Creative with Leftovers: Don't let leftovers go to waste! Use leftover ingredients to create new meals. For example, leftover chicken can be used in salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes, while leftover vegetables can be added to soups, stews, or stir-fries.

Note: Prices are indicative of current Australian supermarket prices as at May 2024.

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