Se Le Antojaban A Mucho Mi Viejito Estas Mulitas De Carne
Se Le Antojaban A Mucho Mi Viejito Estas Mulitas De Carne is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 4. 740 calories per serving. Recipe by De mi Rancho a Tu Cocina on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 47 min | Total: 1 hr 17 min
Cost: $18.76 total, $4.69 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 kilogram Ground Beef (lean or 80/20 ratio, broken into small pieces)
- 1 medium Tomato (quartered)
- 3 pieces Dried Puebla Chilies (mild dried chilies, can substitute with guajillo or ancho)
- 1 piece Dried Arbol Chili (small dried chile for heat)
- 1 small Onion (peeled and diced for sauce)
- 1 piece Garlic Clove (minced)
- 3 pieces Jalapeño Chilies (sliced into thin strips, seeds removed for milder heat)
- 1 handful Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
- 200 grams Oaxaca Cheese (shredded; mozzarella works as a substitute)
- 12 pieces Corn Tortillas (6‑inch small tortillas)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (for frying the beef and sautéing toppings)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
Heat Oil
Place the large skillet over medium‑high heat and add 2 Tbsp vegetable oil. Let the oil heat for about 2 minutes until it shimmers.
Time: PT2M
Brown the Beef
Add the 1 kg ground beef to the hot oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper. Break the meat apart and cook, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and any liquid has evaporated, about 8 minutes.
Time: PT8M
Add Aromatics
Stir in the diced tomato, the diced onion, and the minced garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until the tomato softens and the mixture becomes fragrant.
Time: PT5M
Toast Dried Chilies
In a separate small skillet, toast the 3 dried Puebla chilies and the arbol chili over medium heat for about 2 minutes, shaking the pan constantly so they brown lightly but do not burn.
Time: PT2M
Blend the Sauce
Transfer the cooked tomato‑onion‑garlic mixture and the toasted chilies to the blender. Add a pinch of salt, about ¼ cup water, and blend until smooth.
Time: PT5M
Simmer the Sauce
Return the blended sauce to the large skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
Time: PT10M
Prepare Toppings
Thinly slice the remaining onion and the 3 jalapeño chilies into strips. In the small skillet, heat a drizzle of oil, add the onion and jalapeño strips, season with a pinch of salt, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened but still bright.
Time: PT5M
Assemble Mulitas
Lay a tortilla flat, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese, add a spoonful of the seasoned beef, top with more cheese, and place a second tortilla on top. Press lightly.
Time: PT5M
Cook Mulitas
Return the large skillet to medium heat. Add a tiny amount of oil if needed. Place the assembled mulitas in the pan and cook 3‑4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the tortillas are golden‑brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Time: PT10M
Finish and Serve
Transfer the cooked mulitas to a serving plate. Top each with the sautéed onion‑jalapeño strips and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 740
- Protein
- 45 g
- Carbohydrates
- 30 g
- Fat
- 45 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free (when using corn tortillas), High-Protein, Nut-Free
Allergens: Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Ground Beef: Ground Turkey, Ground Pork
- Instead of Tomato: Canned Diced Tomatoes
- Instead of Dried Puebla Chilies: Dried Ancho Chilies, Dried Guajillo Chilies
- Instead of Dried Arbol Chili: Cayenne Pepper (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Garlic Clove: Garlic Powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Jalapeño Chilies: Serrano Chilies
- Instead of Fresh Cilantro: Parsley
- Instead of Oaxaca Cheese: Mozzarella, Queso Fresco
- Instead of Corn Tortillas: Flour Tortillas
- Instead of Vegetable Oil: Canola Oil
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet or Cazuela
- Blender or Food Processor
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
- Small Skillet for Toppings
- Serving Plate
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Toast the dried chilies only until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Blend the hot tomato mixture carefully to prevent splatter.
- Ensure the cheese melts before the tortilla becomes too crisp; cover briefly if needed.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use Oaxaca cheese for its stretchy melt; if unavailable, mozzarella works well.
- Leave the seeds in the arbol chili if you like extra heat; remove for milder flavor.
- Press the assembled mulita gently with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning.
Troubleshooting
Sauce is too thick.
Add a little water or broth, 1‑2 Tbsp at a time, and stir until desired consistency is reached.
Mulitas are soggy instead of crispy.
Increase the skillet heat slightly and cook a minute longer per side; avoid overcrowding the pan.
Cheese does not melt fully.
Cover the pan for 30‑60 seconds after flipping to trap steam, which helps melt the cheese quickly.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store the cooked beef and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat and assemble mulitas fresh.
Freezer: Beef and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Do not freeze assembled mulitas as tortillas become soggy.
Room temperature: Do not leave assembled mulitas at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the spicy tomato sauce a day ahead and refrigerate; it deepens in flavor.
- Cook the ground beef and store it separately; reheat gently before assembling.
- Chop cilantro and slice jalapeños up to 2 hours before cooking and keep them covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of mulitas in Mexican cuisine?
Mulitas are a traditional Mexican street‑food snack originating from the northern states, where small double‑tortilla tacos are filled with meat and cheese and then grilled. They are beloved for their handheld convenience and the delightful contrast of crispy tortilla and melty cheese.
What regional variations of mulitas exist within Mexico?
In northern Mexico, mulitas often use beef and Oaxaca cheese, while in central regions they may be filled with pork or chicken and topped with salsa verde. Some coastal versions add seafood or use flour tortillas for a softer bite.
How are mulitas traditionally served in Mexican street markets?
Street vendors typically serve mulitas hot off the griddle, sprinkled with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. They are eaten plain or with a side of salsa, making them a quick, satisfying snack.
During which Mexican celebrations are mulitas commonly enjoyed?
Mulitas are popular at fairs, local festivals (ferias), and family gatherings, especially during weekend lunches and as an accompaniment to cerveza during celebrations like Día de los Muertos or Independence Day.
What authentic ingredients define a traditional Mexican mulita versus common substitutes?
Authentic mulitas use corn tortillas, Oaxaca or similar melting cheese, and a simple meat filling seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes cumin. Substitutes like flour tortillas or cheddar cheese are acceptable but change the traditional flavor and texture.
What other Mexican dishes pair well with mulitas?
Mulitas pair nicely with fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, Mexican rice, refried beans, or a light cucumber‑lime salad. A cold cerveza or agua fresca completes the meal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making mulitas at home?
Common errors include over‑toasting the dried chilies (which makes the sauce bitter), using too much oil which prevents the tortilla from crisping, and not allowing the cheese enough time to melt before removing the mulita from the pan.
Why does this recipe toast the dried chilies separately instead of adding them directly to the sauce?
Toasting chilies separately gives you control over their color and flavor; it prevents the sauce from becoming overly smoky or burnt, and it allows you to remove any charred pieces before blending.
Can I make the beef mulitas ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can cook the beef and prepare the sauce a day ahead, storing each in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble and grill the mulitas just before serving to retain crispness.
What does the YouTube channel De mi Rancho a Tu Cocina specialize in?
The YouTube channel De mi Rancho a Tu Cocina focuses on authentic Mexican home cooking, sharing family‑style recipes that highlight rustic techniques, regional flavors, and practical tips for everyday meals.
Last updated: August 25, 2026








