Bean Heads

Get kids involved in the kitchen in this fun  recipe for sopes, a traditional Mexican dish that involves topping a thick homemade corn tortilla with beans, cheese and veggies.

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Yield
12 child-size portions
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
Common Allergens
milk (optional if cheese is omitted)
Equipment List
Mixing bowl
Measuring cup
Skillet or griddle
Knife
Cutting board
Ingredients
1 package
corn flour (masa harina) or store-bought corn tortillas (can be warmed on a plate in the microwave for 1 minute before topping with beans and face ingredients)
1 can
refried beans
2
bell pepers
2
avocados
12
grape tomatoes
1 cup
shredded cabbage or grated carrot
Optional
grated or cumbled cheese
Instructions
  1. Prepare the vegetables into shapes to make faces. Cut the grape tomatoes in half lengthwise for eyes. Cut the peppers into strips for mouths. Cut the avocado into slices for ears. Shred the cabbage or carrot for hair. Grate or crumble the cheese for hair or beard. Place on cutting board in piles or in bowls for later assembly.
  2. Make the tortilla dough following the package instructions on the flour (2 cups masa to 1.5 cups water). Place flour and water in mixing bowl and mix thoroughly with hands or a wooden spoon until a soft dough form. If too dry, add more water 1 teaspoon at a time.
  3. Heat skillet or griddle on medium heat. No oil is needed.
  4. Meanwhile, divide the dough into 12 pieces and roll each into a ball. Flatten in a tortilla press covered with plastic wrap or with the bottom of a pie plate. This is fun for kids!
  5. As each tortilla is flattened, transfer to the skillet or griddle and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, turning gently with fingers, until slightly puffed and lightly golden. Set aside in a clean dish towel to keep warm.
  6. Meanwhile, warm the refried beans on the stove or in microwave.
  7. Place everything on the table and invite children to place a tortilla on their plate, spread with beans as a base then create their face with the toppings.

Source: Nicole Fetterly, RD and https://www.bettertogetherbc.ca/contest/video/make-funny-faces-on-homemade-corn-tortillas-bean-heads

Note:  Childcare facilities with 8 or more children should check with their Licensing Officer about what is needed to serve food.