Gorditas

Ingredients

• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Salsa (1/2 cup)
• Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
• Refried beans (1 cup)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Water (1.5 cups)
• Masa harina (2 cups)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the masa harina and salt. Gradually add the water, kneading until the dough is smooth and pliable.
2. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the gorditas until lightly browned on each side, about 3 minutes per side.
4. Let the gorditas cool slightly, then cut a slit in the side of each one to create a pocket.
5. Fill each gordita with refried beans, cheese, and salsa.
6. In the same skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the filled gorditas until golden and crispy, about 2 minutes per side.
7. Serve the gorditas hot with additional salsa on the side.