Have you met Chilatas? You're in for a treat.

My new friend in the kitchen ~ a deliciously crunchy, salty, slightly spicy condiment. Move over Bacon crumbles, you've got competition!

Chilatas is a textured powder of toasted and ground seeds and nut, seasoned with chile and salt. It is sprinkled over a freshly made corn tortilla or a dish of beans.

I especially adore it sprinkled on salads.

Delicious, healthy, crunchy and addictive.

Vegetarian friendly and gluten free. Best of all, you make it yourself.


This version is from Diana Kennedy, foremost authority on authentic Mexican food.

More about Diana Kennedy



The main ingredients are raw, hulled pumpkin seeds, raw sesame seeds, and peanuts.

The seasonings are simply sea salt and Chipolte powder.

Chipolte powder is readily available on the spice aisle of most grocery stores.

The peanuts and seeds are toasted, then combined and ground (I just pulse the mix in the food processor until the desired texture is achieved), and combined with the salt and chili powder.

I keep a jar in the refrigerator, and one in the freezer so I'm never without. :)

I've posted the actual proportions and procedure over on my recipe blog in a printable format ~

you can access it by clicking HERE.

If Chilatas sound like something you might like, I hope you'll make a batch and let me know what you think.

Once Upon a Plate <©> 2009