Chalupa

These boats are known as chalupa in one Mexican dialect, or so I am told. They're quite pretty, but I want to talk about the kind of chalupa that you eat, and NOT the Taco Bell version. My good friend Misa makes a mean chalupa filling. Most of the recipes for the filling seem to have a lot in common, but what makes Misa's recipe so great is that you dump everything into the crock pot and go. Misa has to feed a family of 8 and then some, so the recipe accomodates her quite nicely. I have to pare it down and make half to feed my little brood.

3 lb. pork loin roast - browned (i didn't brown it and it was still good), you can also use chicken
4 - 15 oz. cans of beans - any mixture will do i.e. pinto, kidney, black, etc. drained and rinsed
1/2 cup chopped onion
1-4 oz. can chopped green chilis
2 garlic cloves - minced
1 T. chili powder
1 T. cumin
1 T. salt
1 t. oregano

Dump the above ingredients over the meat and mix a little bit. Cook in crock pot until it falls apart, on high for half day or low for all day. Shred with a fork and mix well. This makes a LOT, so you may want to make half. Now for the boat part. Fry up some tortillas in a little oil and place over a bowl to cool thus making the shape of a little boat. Or you can omit that step and just serve in a soft tortilla and roll it up, burrito style. Fill with pork filling and other toppings if desired i.e. cilantro, cheese, salsa, sour cream, etc. Although I have to say, these are outrageously good on their own and don't need a lot of extra fuss. Thanks Misa.