1

In a small pot, add chile, cover with water; bring to a boil, then turn off heat and let sit until chile is softened, about 20 minutes.

2

Remove chile from water and finely chop. In a small pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, season with salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until well softened, about 10 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Add ½ of chopped chile to pot with onion and garlic (you can add more later to taste). Add tomatoes and increase heat to bring tomatoes to a boil. Lower to a simmer and let cook until liquid has reduced slightly, about 20 minutes. Stir in cilantro and chicken, and heat until chicken is warmed through. Taste and adjust salt or amount of chile. (This mixture can be stored up to overnight, then reheated in a pot just before proceeding.)

3

When ready to serve tostadas, quickly warm refried beans in a small pot, thinning them as needed with water to achieve a spreadable consistency. Carefully spread 2 Tbsp beans onto each warmed tostada shell. Top each with 1/2 c chicken mixture, garnish with 1 Tbsp sour cream and ½ Tbsp queso fresco and serve immediately.

4

Serving size: 1 tostada