Baleada

A baleada is a cherished Honduran dish that begins with a soft flour tortilla, filled with mashed, fried red beans, thick Honduran cream (mantequilla Hondureña), and a sprinkle of crumbled hard salty cheese. Originating from the north coast of Honduras, this delectable meal has gained popularity across the country.

What sets baleadas apart is their adaptability. While the basic version includes just beans, cheese, and cream, numerous variations exist that incorporate scrambled eggs, sausage, plantains, hot sauce, avocado, chicken, pork, or even chismol—a mix of diced tomato, onion, and bell pepper. Popular types include the simple baleada, which sticks to the basics, the mixta baleada with scrambled eggs, and the super special baleada that includes additional proteins like chicken or ground meat.

Each region in Honduras offers its own interpretation of the baleada. For example, in Olancho and Cojutepeque, special baleadas might feature grilled meat. On the island of Utila, off the coast of La Ceiba, baleadas often include pickled onions and creole cheese, giving them a distinctive flavor.

Baleadas have also permeated popular culture. They were showcased in the Honduran movie "Amor y Frijoles" where the main character earns a living by making them. Moreover, in 2017, celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay visited Honduras and praised baleadas, calling them the best food in Latin America.