Huevos motuleños is a beloved Mexican breakfast dish, especially popular in the Yucatán region. This delicious meal features fried eggs served over refried black beans, topped with a flavorful tomato sauce, peas, ham, and garnishes. Though it may sound complex, recreating huevos motuleños at home is easy with this ultimate guide!
Keep reading to learn all about this iconic regional dish and how make it from your own kitchen.
What are Huevos Motuleños?
Huevos motuleños translates to “eggs from Motul” – Motul being a municipality in the state of Yucatán. The dish originated in the city of Mérida, capital of Yucatán. It’s considered a regional specialty and comfort food.
The basic components include:
- Fried eggs
- Refried black beans
- Tomato sauce
- Peas
- Ham
- Cheese, avocado, plantains
When combined, these simple ingredients make a hearty, satisfying meal full of diverse textures and bright, robust flavors. The runny egg yolks blend with the rich beans and tangy salsa to create an utterly addicting breakfast dish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Huevos Motuleños
Ready to cook up this Yucatecan favorite? Follow these simple steps:
Prep Ingredients
- 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 large tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 serrano chili, chopped
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 eggs
- 1⁄2 cup frozen peas
- 4 strips deli ham
- Sliced avocado, queso fresco, pickled red onions for serving
Make Refried Beans
In a skillet over medium heat, combine beans, 2 tablespoons water, and salt to taste. Mash beans to a coarse texture. Cook until heated through, adding more water as needed to prevent sticking.
Cook Tomato Sauce
In another skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, garlic, and chili in olive oil until soft. Add tomatoes and simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
Fry Eggs
In a nonstick pan, fry eggs sunny-side up or over-easy.
Assemble Dish
Place refried beans on plate. Top with ham, then fried egg. Ladle tomato sauce over egg. Top with peas, cheese, avocado, and pickled onions.
Tips for Perfect Huevos Motuleños
- Use good quality deli ham for the best flavor.
- Fry eggs gently over medium-low heat for runny yolks.
- Make the tomato sauce spicy by keeping seeds from the chili pepper.
- Serve with warm corn tortillas on the side.
- Garnish with lime wedges for brightness.
- Amp up the protein by adding shredded chicken.
- Use plantains instead of avocado if preferred.
FAQ About Huevos Motuleños
1. What type of beans are used?
Traditionally, black beans are used. Pinto or Navy beans can substitute.
2. Is salsa verde or roja better?
Either works, but roja (red salsa) is more common. Green is tangier.
3. Can I prep the components in advance?
Yes, you can make the beans, salsa, and ham ahead. Assemble and cook eggs right before eating.
4. What’s the best way to fry the eggs?
Gently fry in olive oil over medium-low heat for runny yolks without overcooking whites.
5. What kind of ham is traditionally used?
Deli-sliced Virginia ham is closest to regional ham flavors. Prosciutto also works well.
6. How should I season the beans?
Salt is usually sufficient, but epazote or cumin add nice complexity.
7. What drinks pair well with it?
Cafe de olla, horchata, jamaica (hibiscus tea), citrus juices, or micheladas.
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