Frito pie

Frito pie is a cherished comfort food in the Midwestern and Southwestern United States, comprising a delicious mixture of chili, cheese, and corn chips. Enthusiasts often get inventive with their Frito pie, incorporating extras like salsa, refried beans, sour cream, onions, rice, or jalapeños. This dish can be prepared in a casserole dish or served directly from a single-serve Fritos bag, topped with all your favorite ingredients. In Mexico, you’ll find a similar dish known as chilaquiles.

The origins of Frito pie are somewhat unclear. Some suggest it might have originated in Mexico and found its way to the U.S. through festive events. The earliest known recipe using Fritos corn chips with chili dates back to Texas in 1949. Various stories circulate about its true inventor, with names like Daisy Doolin, Mary Livingston, and Nell Morris frequently mentioned.

Making Frito pie is straightforward. Simply layer Fritos, top them with beef chili and cheese, and add extras like onions, sour cream, or jalapeños if desired. A fun variation is the "Frito boat" or "walking taco" where the ingredients are served in a small bag of corn chips, making it ideal for on-the-go enjoyment.

In Mexico, a variation called tostilocos includes toppings such as cueritos (pickled pork skin), cucumber, jícama, lime juice, hot sauce, chili powder, salt, and "Japanese peanuts." Frito pies are a popular choice at sports events, fundraisers, and street vendors, with each region adding its own unique twist to this delectable dish.