Garnaches
Garnaches are a popular Belizean street food consisting of a crispy fried corn tortilla topped with refried beans, shredded cabbage, pickled onions, and cheese. They offer a delightful combination of textures and savory flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 6 large Corn tortillas
- 1 can (15 oz) Refried beans(black or kidney beans)
- 2 cups Green cabbage(finely shredded)
- 0.5 medium Yellow onion(finely diced)
- 1 medium Carrot(grated)
- 0.5 cup White vinegar
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(to taste)
- 0.5 cup Edam or Gouda cheese(shredded)
- 0.5 cup Vegetable oil(for frying)
- 0.25 Habanero pepper(finely diced (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the pickled onion topping: In a small bowl, combine the finely diced yellow onion, shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and optional finely diced habanero pepper. Pour the white vinegar over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to pickle.
- 2
Warm the refried beans in a small saucepan over low heat. If using canned beans, you may need to add a splash of water to achieve a spreadable consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 3
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully fry each corn tortilla for 1-2 minutes per side, until puffed and golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- 4
Spread a layer of warm refried beans onto each crispy fried tortilla.
- 5
Top the beans with a generous portion of the pickled onion and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
- 6
Serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an authentic flavor, use traditional Dutch cheese or a similar hard, salty cheese.
- ✓Day-old or slightly stale corn tortillas fry up crispier.
- ✓Adjust the amount of habanero to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for freshness.
- Some recipes include a thin layer of tomato before the cabbage mixture.