Refried heirloom vaquero beans add a special touch to these tostadas, but black beans work, too. I have always had a weakness for black bean tostadas. These are not unlike Oaxacan tlayudas, though this recipe doesn’t call for that dish’s signature extra-large corn tortillas. I used luxurious black and white vaqueros from Rancho Gordo for these, but black beans will also work well. Cook them yourself (don’t use canned), because you’ll need the delicious broth. I don’t refry them for as long as I normally would because I like them moist, and vaqueros are starchier than black beans.
02Toast the tortillas. For really crisp tortillas, heat one at a time (2 if you have a large enough microwave to fit 2 without the tortillas overlapping) in a microwave for 1 minute on full power. Flip tortilla over and microwave for 30 seconds to a minute more on full power, until crisp. You can also toast them in a dry pan or directly over the flame, but this will not crisp the tortillas, it will just char them.
03In a medium bowl, combine tomatoes, chiles, onion, and cilantro. Season to taste with salt. Stir in lime juice and the avocado. Let sit for 15 to 30 minutes for the best flavor.
04Spread about 1/2 cup of the refried beans over each tortilla. Top with a
generous spoonful of salsa. Place a handful of shredded lettuce or cabbage on top and if desired a little more salsa on the lettuce. Sprinkle on some white cheese, and serve.