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SUPER BOWL FRITO PIE

I know the name sounds strange, but this delicious, quick “pie” with a chili base is famous in the South and Southwest.

In the old days, it was served up at Woolworth’s and the chili was actually scooped into an open Fritos bag and poured over the chips.

These days the bag is too flimsy to hold the hot chili. No matter, this dish is so great tasting that you’ll be celebrating, even if your team doesn’t win!

This recipe is adapted from the book Blue Plate Specials and Blue Ribbon Chefs, by Jane and Michael Stern.
Frito Pie

2 slices bacon cut into 1” pieces
1 teaspoon garlic minced
1-1/2 cups chopped onion
1 pound ground chuck
Salt to taste
2-3 tablespoons chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin or more to taste
½ to one 6 oz can tomato paste
1-1/2 cups water (approx.)
1 can drained pinto, red or other beans

Sauté bacon. Add garlic and onion to pan and cook until onion softens. Add beef and cook until browned. Add salt, chili powder, cumin, tomato paste and enough water to give the chili a loose, but not soupy, consistency.

Add beans and cook 15 minutes.

Now here’s the fun part: Use wide, shallow bowls.

Arrange a broad bed of Fritos, going up the sides with them. Pour hot chili on top, then sprinkle on garnishes of your choice: shredded cheese, chopped onion, chopped jalapenos, salsa, sour cream, etc.

The Fritos on the bottom will have softened to form a crust, while those on the sides stay crisper. Serves 4-5.

 

©2007 Rita Heikenfeld and AboutEating.com