Memelas with Queso Fresco and Charred Tomato Sauce

Name: Memelas with Queso Fresco and Charred Tomato Sauce
Yield: Makes 16 hors d’oeuvres
Ingredients: 1 pound tomatoes (4 medium); 2 fresh serrano chiles or 1 jalapeño chile; 2 tablespoons chopped white onion; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 2 cups masa harina ("masa mix") such as Maseca or Quaker; 1 1/3 cups warm water; 10 ounces queso fresco (Mexican fresh cheese) or feta, crumbled (2 cups); Garnish: chopped fresh cilantro; a tortilla press or a rolling pin

August 20, 2004

Memelas with Queso Fresco and Charred Tomato SaucePhoto by John Kernick

Memelas are similar to chalupas and sopes. Pinching up the edges and creating tiny bumps in the centers helps keep the filling in place, which becomes important when the memelas are large.

Cooks' notes:

·Sauce may be made 1 day ahead and chilled, covered. Add cilantro just before using.
·Memelas may be prepared, without adding filling, 4 hours ahead, cooled completely, then chilled in a sealed plastic bag.

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