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Appetizer

Traditional Oaxacan Tetelas

These triangular masa pockets filled with savory beans are a delicious and comforting snack.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 Mexican· August 6, 2026
Traditional Oaxacan Tetelas
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
20 minutes
Cook
20 minutes
Total
40 minutes
Serves
4

Tetelas are a beautiful piece of Oaxacan culture. These handheld pockets made from corn masa are traditionally filled with seasoned black beans and shaped into triangles, making them the perfect snack or light meal whenever you have a little craving.

Most people love them because they are simple, satisfying, and easy to eat on the go. If you want to make the process easier, feel free to use a tortilla press to get the masa thin, but pressing them by hand works just as well if you do not have one.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups nixtamalized corn flour
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 1 cup cooked black beans, mashed
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Salsa and crumbled cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. 1

    Mix the corn flour and warm water in a large bowl until you have a soft dough that does not stick to your hands.

  2. 2

    Sauté the onion in a small pan with the oil, then stir in the mashed black beans and cook for a few minutes until thick.

  3. 3

    Take a small ball of dough and flatten it into a thin circle on a piece of plastic wrap.

  4. 4

    Place a spoonful of the bean mixture in the center of the circle.

  5. 5

    Fold the sides of the dough inward to form a triangle shape, pinching the edges firmly to seal the filling inside.

  6. 6

    Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat and cook the tetelas for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they have nice browned spots.

  7. 7

    Serve warm topped with your favorite salsa and a sprinkle of cheese.

💡 Tips

Serve these warm with a dollop of fresh crema or a spoonful of spicy salsa. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them in a dry pan until they are crisp again.

#Vegetarian#Gluten Free#Mexican#Healthy#Snacks

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