Delicious Tostilocos Recipe for Snack Lovers

Introduction

Tostilocos are a vibrant Mexican snack that captures the essence of street food with its colorful array of flavors and textures. Combining Tostitos chips with an assortment of delectable toppings, this snack is sure to tantalize your taste buds. With a delightful balance of sweetness, spice, and crunch, Tostilocos are perfect for any gathering or as a tasty treat for yourself. Follow this detailed recipe to create your own Tostilocos at home, complete with coconut cueritos for an extra touch of flavor.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the Coconut Cueritos: – 1 cup fresh coconut meat chunks or drained canned hearts of palm (4 ounces) – 1/4 medium white onion, thinly sliced – 1 bay leaf – 1 teaspoon fine salt – 3/4 cup white vinegar – 1 tablespoon brown sugar For the Tostilocos: – 4 Pulparindo candies – 1/4 cup vegetable juice, preferably V8 – 1 teaspoon soy sauce – 1 teaspoon vegan Worcestershire sauce – 4 (3 ounces each) bags Tostitos chips – 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 2 to 3 medium limes) – 1/2 medium to large cucumber, diced (about 1/2 cup) – 1/2 cup diced jicama – 1/4 cup chamoy – 1 tablespoon Mexican hot sauce, preferably Valentina or Tapatio – 1 (7-ounce) bag Japanese peanuts – 1 teaspoon Tajín

Prep Time

1 hour (plus overnight chilling for coconut cueritos)

Cook Time

15 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 15 minutes (plus chilling time)

Yield

Serves 4-6 Enjoy your homemade Tostilocos, a delightful blend of flavors and textures!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Coconut Cueritos

1. Cut the coconut meat into very thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick. Place them in a clean, sterilized jar along with the sliced onion, bay leaf, and salt. 2. In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, 3/4 cup water, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. 3. Once boiling, pour the pickling liquid over the coconut mixture in the jar. Stir to combine, seal the jar, and let it sit for at least one hour, or up to overnight.

Assemble the Tostilocos

1. Cut the Pulparindo candies in half lengthwise, then slice them crosswise into thin strips. 2. Drain the coconut cueritos using a fine mesh strainer. 3. In a small bowl, mix together the vegetable juice, soy sauce, and vegan Worcestershire sauce. Set aside. 4. To assemble, lay the Tostitos bags on their sides and cut them open lengthwise, or use medium-sized bowls. 5. Divide the vegetable juice mixture and lime juice evenly among the bags or bowls, tossing to coat the chips. 6. Top each portion with diced cucumber, jicama, and drained coconut cueritos. Drizzle with chamoy and hot sauce. 7. Sprinkle Japanese peanuts, Pulparindo strips, and a touch of Tajín over each serving. Serve immediately.

Notes

Fresh ingredients

Using fresh coconut meat will enhance the flavor of the cueritos. If fresh coconut is unavailable, canned hearts of palm can be a suitable alternative.

Vegan substitution

Ensure that the Worcestershire sauce used is vegan if preparing for a vegan diet.

Serving suggestion

Tostilocos are best enjoyed immediately after assembly for maximum freshness and crunchiness of the Tostitos chips.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as diced tomatoes or avocado, to customize your Tostilocos to your taste.

Cook techniques

Preparation of Coconut Cueritos

Start by slicing fresh coconut meat or canned hearts of palm into thin pieces. Combine with onion, bay leaf, and salt in a sterilized jar. Prepare a pickling liquid with vinegar, water, and brown sugar, then pour it over the coconut mixture. Allow it to marinate for at least one hour to enhance the flavors.

Mixing Sauces

In a small bowl, combine vegetable juice, soy sauce, and vegan Worcestershire sauce. This mixture adds a burst of flavor to the Tostitos chips and enhances the overall taste of the snack.

Assembly of Tostilocos

Carefully open the Tostitos bags or use bowls to layer the ingredients. Pour the sauce mixture and lime juice over the chips, ensuring they are evenly coated. Add diced cucumber, jicama, and the drained coconut cueritos on top for a fresh crunch.

Finishing Touches

Drizzle chamoy and your choice of hot sauce over each portion. Top with Japanese peanuts, Pulparindo strips, and a sprinkle of Tajín. Serve immediately to enjoy the combination of flavors and textures at their best.

FAQ

Can I use different toppings for Tostilocos?

Yes, you can customize Tostilocos with various toppings such as avocado, radishes, or different types of pickled vegetables according to your preference.

How long can I store the coconut cueritos?

Coconut cueritos can be stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to one week.

What can I substitute for cheese in this recipe?

You can use vegan cheese alternatives or skip it altogether if you prefer a lighter version of Tostilocos.

Is Tostilocos suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, as long as you verify that the Tostitos chips and sauces used are gluten-free, Tostilocos can be suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I make Tostilocos ahead of time?

While you can prepare components like coconut cueritos and sauces in advance, it’s best to assemble Tostilocos fresh to maintain the crunchiness of the chips.

Conclusion

Tostilocos offer a delicious and inventive way to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures in one snack. The combination of Tostitos chips with unique ingredients like coconut cueritos, Pulparindo candy, and fresh vegetables creates a vibrant dish that is sure to please. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, they provide a taste of Mexico that is both satisfying and fun to eat.

Spicy Tostilocos with Mango

Add diced ripe mango for a sweet and spicy twist. Combine with extra hot sauce and a sprinkle of chili powder for added heat.

Tostilocos with Guacamole

Top your Tostilocos with a generous scoop of guacamole instead of the coconut cueritos for a creamy and rich alternative.

Fruit-Infused Tostilocos

Use a mix of diced fruits like watermelon, pineapple, and strawberries to create a refreshing version. Drizzle with lime juice and sprinkle with Tajín for a unique treat.

Cheesy Tostilocos

Incorporate some melted cheese or queso fresco over the top for an indulgent version that adds richness to the classic flavors.

Barbecue Tostilocos

Substitute the vegetable juice with a tangy barbecue sauce and add grilled chicken or pork for a smoky twist on the traditional recipe.