Memela facts for kids
Memelas topped green and red salsa, and queso fresco
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| Type | Pancake |
|---|---|
| Course | Antojito |
| Place of origin | Mexico |
| Region or state | Puebla |
| Main ingredients | Masa |
Memelas are a yummy type of street food from Oaxaca, Mexico. They are like thick, oval-shaped tortillas made from masa (a special corn dough). Memelas are often fried or toasted. They come with different fresh toppings. People enjoy them as snacks or light meals.
These tasty treats have a long history. Their origins go back to foods eaten before the Spanish arrived in Mexico. Memelas are similar to fresh corn tortillas. But they are a bit thicker and usually have an oval or oblong shape. In Oaxaca, "memela" is the local name for dishes like sope and huarache. These are served in other parts of Mexico but often have different toppings.
Contents
How Memelas Are Made
Making memelas starts with masa, a dough made from corn. The masa is pressed flat using a tortilla press. Then, small indentations are pinched along the edges. This gives the memela its unique shape.
Next, the flattened masa is placed on a hot comal or griddle. A comal is a flat, round griddle used for cooking tortillas. The memela cooks until it's slightly charred and chewy.
Popular Toppings
Once the base is cooked, it's time for the toppings! Traditional memelas are often topped with black beans, salsa, and shredded cabbage. Other classic toppings include mole negro, a rich, dark sauce. You might also find guacamole and cheese on top.
Modern Memela Creations
While traditional toppings are great, modern memelas can have many different ingredients. Recipes now include other vegetables. You might also find a layer of tinga. This is shredded chicken cooked with tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers. Some memelas even come with potatoes and sausage.
Memelas became popular in Mexican restaurants in the United States. They have been served there since the 1990s.
Other Memela Varieties
Memelas are enjoyed in different ways across Central America.
Memelas in El Salvador
In El Salvador, a memela is a thick, oval-shaped tortilla. It is similar to the Oaxacan version.
Memelas in Honduras and Guatemala
In Honduras and Guatemala, a memela is a toasted cake. It is made from masa mixed with cinnamon and curdled milk. These memelas are often cooked wrapped in banana leaves.
See also
In Spanish: Memela para niños
