Nachos

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prep the toppings first so everything can go on quickly: drain 1 can of black beans and warm them in a small pot with ½ teaspoon cumin and a pinch of salt; chop 2 tomatoes; slice 1 jalapeño; chop a small handful of cilantro.

2. 2

   Spread half of a large bag of tortilla chips (about 8 cups) in a single layer on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter. Don't pile up — single layer is essential for even cheese distribution.

3. 3

   Sprinkle with half of 3 cups of shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack), then half of the warm beans and half of the jalapeños.

4. 4

   Add the remaining chips in another layer. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese, beans, and jalapeños.

5. 5

   Bake for 6-8 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Don't overdo it — past 10 minutes the chips get hard and burnt.

6. 6

   Remove from the oven. Immediately top with: chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, sliced avocado or guacamole, dollops of sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, sliced scallions, a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately — nachos are a 5-minute window food.