Authentic Pinto Bean and Beef Tostadas

Ingredients

• Lime (1, cut into wedges)
• Cilantro (1/2 cup, chopped)
• Sour cream (1/2 cup)
• Avocado (1, sliced)
• Tomato (1, diced)
• Shredded lettuce (1 cup)
• Tostada shells (8)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
• Chili powder (1 teaspoon)
• Cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1 medium, diced)
• Pinto beans (1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed)
• Ground beef (1 pound)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté with the beef until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the spices to cook with the beef mixture for about 2 minutes to enhance their flavors.
4. Add the drained and rinsed pinto beans to the skillet. Stir well to combine, and let the mixture cook for another 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Place the tostada shells on a baking sheet and warm them in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes. This will help them regain their crispiness.
7. Spread a generous layer of the pinto bean and beef mixture onto each warmed tostada shell.
8. Top each tostada with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, and slices of avocado. Add a dollop of sour cream to each, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
9. Serve the tostadas immediately with lime wedges on the side. Encourage your guests to squeeze the lime juice over their tostada just before eating for a burst of freshness.
10. Enjoy your delicious, authentic Pinto Bean and Beef Tostadas!