Step 1: Preparation Steps

Preheat Your Oven:

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven is essential for an even bake and a perfectly melted cheese topping.

Prepare Your Tomato-Based Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
• Sauté finely chopped onions and garlic until soft and fragrant.
• Add your ripe tomatoes, a pinch of salt, and your favorite spices (a hint of cumin works well).
• Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly, ensuring it will be the heart of your pastel azteca recipe.

Pre-Cook Protein (if using chicken):

• If you’re opting for a pastel azteca de pollo recipe, make sure your shredded chicken is cooked and seasoned.
• For a pastel azteca vegetarian version, gently warm black beans or grilled vegetables to ensure they meld nicely with the sauce.

Step 2: Assembling Your Dish

Layering the Base:

• Lightly coat a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Begin with a thin layer of your tomato-based sauce to create a flavorful base for the first layer of tortillas.

Creating the Layers:

• Place a layer of 12 corn tortillas evenly across the dish.
• Spread a generous portion of the sauce over the tortillas, ensuring even coverage.
• Add your protein—shredded chicken for a pastel azteca de pollo recipe or black beans/vegetables for a pastel azteca vegetarian option.
• Sprinkle a portion of the Mexican cheese blend over the protein, allowing it to melt beautifully.
• For an extra burst of flavor, add a layer of sliced poblano peppers or a mix of diced tomatoes and corn kernels.

Repeat the Process:

• Continue layering tortillas, sauce, protein, vegetables, and cheese until your ingredients are used up.
• Aim for at least two complete layers for a hearty, satisfying dish.

Final Touches:

• Top your final layer with the remaining sauce and a generous sprinkling of cheese.
• For a more dynamic flavor profile, you can add a few chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder on top before baking.

Step 3: Baking Instructions

• Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This helps the layers to meld together and ensures even cooking.
• Uncover and Crisp: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This final step lets the cheese achieve a delightful, bubbly finish that characterizes a pastel azteca recipe original.