When it comes to Mexican cuisine, tortilla-based dishes play a major role, offering a variety of flavors and textures. Tlayuda and tostada are Mexican foods that utilize tortillas as their base and share the common feature of being flat, crunchy, and topped with delicious ingredients.

However, a striking feature that sets them apart is their size and preparation style, making each unique in its own way. 

What is a Tlayuda? 

A tlayuda is a traditional Oaxacan dish known for its large size and crispy yet flexible texture. It starts with a large, thin corn tortilla that is toasted or partially fried until it becomes crispy around the edges but remains soft in the center.

Tlayudas are often topped with refried beans, Oaxaca cheese (similar to mozzarella), meats like chorizo or tasajo (a type of beef), and fresh vegetables. The combination of ingredients creates a balance of savory and fresh flavors. Some tlayudas are folded in half, making them easy to hold and eat, almost like a Mexican-style pizza. 

What is a Tostada? 

A tostada is a much smaller and simpler dish compared to the tlayuda. It uses a small, fully fried corn tortilla as its base, which is completely crisp and crunchy. Tostadas are typically topped with refried beans, shredded lettuce, cheese, avocado slices, and a choice of protein such as chicken, beef, or seafood.

The tostada is served open-faced and eaten flat, with a delightful crunch in every bite. Tostadas are popular across Mexico and are often seen as a light meal or snack. 

Differences Between Tlayuda and Tostada 

Size and Shape 

The first major difference between tlayuda and tostada is their size. A tlayuda is much larger, often reaching the size of a small pizza, whereas tostadas are small and handheld. This difference in size also affects how they are served: tlayudas can be folded or left flat, while tostadas are always served flat. 

Texture 

Texture is another key point of difference. The tlayuda has a unique combination of crispy and soft textures—its edges are crunchy, but the center remains pliable. The tostada, in contrast, is fully fried and offers a consistent crunch across the entire tortilla. 

Toppings and Ingredients 

While both dishes share some toppings like beans, cheese, and meats, the style and variety of toppings often differ. Tlayudas tend to have more ingredients and can include traditional Oaxacan meats and cheese, giving them a richer, more complex flavor. Tostadas, being smaller, typically have fewer toppings and are often lighter and simpler, focusing on a few key ingredients.