Mexican Chalupas
Hearty Mexican chalupas featuring tender shredded stew meat and flavorful pinto beans, topped with spicy picante sauce, perfect for a satisfying family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Separate and rinse the pinto beans.
- Bring the pinto beans to a full rolling boil and drain the water.
- Add new water and stew meat to the beans.
- Boil for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until the meat shreds easily.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the stew meat in the spices overnight before cooking. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the stew meat with mushrooms or jackfruit, and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the beans. You can also replace pinto beans with black beans for a different taste. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chalupas topped with fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese for a colorful presentation. Pair them with a side of Fiesta Jalapeno & Tomato Dip for an extra layer of flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chalupas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chalupas in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but be cautious not to overheat, as it may make the Doritos soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Chalupas contains roughly 863 calories, with 41g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and potassium (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2287mg per serving (99% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pinto beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned pinto beans to save time. Just rinse and drain them and add them to the stew meat after it has boiled for about an hour. This will reduce the cooking time significantly, making it a quicker meal option.
What if I don't have chili powder?
If you don't have chili powder, you can create a substitute by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, and a bit of cumin. This will give you a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, you can use taco seasoning if it's on hand for a convenient replacement.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more chili powder or include diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also incorporate hot sauce to taste, or serve with a side of Salt-Free Salsa to allow guests to customize their heat level.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).