Mexico By Food Enthusiasts · 6 min read

National Dish Mexico: Tostilocos (Recipe)

Tostilocos piled with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, avocado and salsa

In this article

Meet Tostilocos, one of Mexico’s wildest and most addictive street snacks! Born on the bustling pavements of Mexican cities, this riot of crunchy tortilla chips, fresh vegetables and zingy sauces delivers a genuine explosion of flavour in every mouthful. It is quick to throw together, endlessly customisable and tailor-made for parties or a relaxed night in. Bring a slice of Mexico straight into your own kitchen.

About Tostilocos

Tostilocos are a wild and delicious Mexican snack that is perfect for parties or a cosy evening at home. This inventive combination of nacho-style chips, fresh ingredients and lively sauces makes for a flavour explosion that delights locals and visitors alike. Rooted firmly in the street food of Mexico, Tostilocos rank among those moreish snacks you simply have to try. The dish is quick and easy to put together, while the variety of fresh elements and the crunch of the chips make for the perfect bite.

Ingredients (serves 1–2)

1 bag of Tostitos (or tortilla chips)
1–2 frankfurter sausages (or vegetarian alternatives)
½ cup freshly sliced cucumber
½ cup freshly sliced carrot
1 handful freshly chopped coriander
1 avocado (sliced or diced)
1 lime (juice)
Salsa or pico de gallo, to taste
Optional: jalapeños or other hot chillies

Shopping for the ingredients

If you want to make Tostilocos, it is worth making sure you have all the necessary ingredients fresh and to hand. Most of the items listed are easy to find in any well-stocked supermarket. Fresh vegetables are crucial to the flavour, so choose seasonal produce wherever you can. Remember to keep an eye out for vegetarian or vegan alternatives too, if that is what you are after.

Preparing the dish

Before you start assembling the Tostilocos, it is important to prepare all the ingredients properly. Begin by slicing the vegetables and the sausages so everything is ready to go. Building the Tostilocos takes a little planning, so that every bite offers an even, well-balanced taste. Make sure you have two plates or bowls ready to serve the Tostilocos in an appealing way.

Step-by-step instructions

Open the bag of Tostitos or tortilla chips and tip them onto a large plate or into a bowl.
Cut the frankfurter sausages into small pieces and scatter them evenly over the chips.
Add the sliced cucumber, carrot and avocado.
Sprinkle over the chopped coriander and the jalapeños (if using).
Finish the Tostilocos with a squeeze of lime juice and your favourite salsa.
Serve the Tostilocos straight away so they stay fresh and crunchy.

Gluten-free / lactose-free version

For gluten-free Tostilocos, it is important to make sure the tortilla chips you use are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options that taste excellent. In addition, fresh vegetables, avocado and salsa are usually both gluten- and lactose-free. Vegans should swap the sausages for plant-based alternatives, which keeps the dish suitable for anyone with a gluten or lactose intolerance.

Tips for vegans and vegetarians

For vegans, Tostilocos are a creative way to delight the taste buds. Instead of sausages you might use grilled tofu or tempeh for a hearty, savoury flavour. Alternatively, black beans are an excellent addition that also bring plenty of protein — the same beans that anchor a comforting bowl of Frijoles Charros. Do not forget to check all the dressings and sauces to make sure they are vegan.

More tips and tricks

If you want to take the Tostilocos recipe a step further, experiment by adding different sauces and dressings. Hot salsas, guacamole or even creamy yoghurt dips can lend the dish an extra layer of flavour. For a sweeter note, you could add fresh pineapple or mango pieces, which make a delicious change. Inventive garnishing makes all the difference, so do not be shy about getting creative!

Adapting the recipe to your taste

Tostilocos are extremely adaptable and can easily be modified to suit your preferences. Add more of the vegetables you love, or leave out anything you are less keen on. You can also play with textures by adding crunchy elements such as nuts or seeds. The possibilities for variation are endless — everyone can create their own “signature Tostilocos”!

Ingredient substitutions

If one of the ingredients for Tostilocos is not to your taste or you simply do not have it to hand, you can easily pick an alternative. Instead of frankfurter sausages you might use chicken or turkey strips for a different flavour, much as you would in a plate of Chalupas de Pollo. In place of coriander you can use parsley if you are not a fan of coriander’s distinctive taste. Do not hesitate to try different combinations until you find your perfect version!

Drink pairing ideas

Tostilocos go well with drinks that complement the heat and flavour of the snack. Mexican lemonade is a refreshing option, as is a light beer or a margarita. For an alcohol-free choice you could serve agua fresca or a fruit smoothie. The right drink can noticeably improve the whole experience of the meal.

Serving and presentation ideas

The presentation of your Tostilocos can lift the enjoyment considerably. Use bright, colourful plates or bowls to show off the vivid mix. Garnish the dish with fresh herbs or edible flowers to create a real feast for the eyes. You might also consider serving individual portions in small bowls, which makes it easier for guests to dig in while creating an attractive table at the same time.

A bit of history

Tostilocos have their roots in Mexican street food and have enjoyed ever-growing popularity in recent years. The snack originally grew out of the idea of combining tortilla chips with various toppings to create a quick, tasty dish. The variety of ingredients reflects the culinary creativity of Mexican cuisine. Whether as a snack while watching the football or as a party dish, Tostilocos are a genuine temptation for the palate.

More recipe ideas

Summary: Tostilocos

Tostilocos are an exciting and delicious snack that is perfect for all kinds of occasions. With a selection of fresh ingredients and the freedom to adapt the recipe to your own preferences, they are a real showstopper at any party. Whether you are thinking of serving them at a football match or a celebration, these Mexican snacks are sure to delight your guests. Give them a go and let yourself be tempted by the wonderful range of flavours!