Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden tacos filled with tasty meat or veggies. They are usually fried, making them crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside—what a delicious combo!
Honestly, who can resist that satisfying crunch? I love trying different fillings, like chicken or potatoes. Perfect for a quick snack or a fun dinner with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are the heart of Tacos Dorados. Fresh tortillas work best, but you can use store-bought ones if needed. Flour tortillas can be a substitute, but they won’t give you the same crunch.
Shredded Chicken: I love using cooked chicken for quicker prep. You can also use shredded beef or even pulled pork. If you’re vegetarian, swap in some sautéed mushrooms or beans for a delicious option!
Vegetable Oil: While I use vegetable oil for frying, you might prefer canola or avocado oil due to their higher smoke point. Be cautious with olive oil; it can burn quickly.
Queso Fresco or Cotija: Both are crumbly cheeses that add great flavor. If you can’t find them, feta cheese is a decent alternative, although it has a stronger taste. Shredded mozzarella also works if you want something milder.
How Do I Fry Tacos for the Perfect Crunch?
Frying tacos can be tricky, so let’s make sure they’re perfectly crispy! The key is to maintain the right oil temperature and fry them in batches. Here’s how:
- Heat oil until it shimmers—this means it’s hot enough. You can test it with a small piece of tortilla; if it bubbles immediately, you’re good to go.
- Carefully place the folded tacos in the oil one by one, and don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps them stay crispy.
- Fry until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes. Use tongs to flip them gently to avoid breaking.
- After frying, let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep that crunch!
With these tips, your Tacos Dorados will be golden, crispy, and oh-so-delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Tacos Dorados?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (or beef)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup salsa (red or green)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need a few minutes to fill and fold the tortillas, and then a little time to fry them up until they’re crispy. It’s a quick and tasty way to enjoy a homemade taco feast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for frying those tacos, so let it sit for a few minutes while you prepare the tortillas.
2. Fill the Tortillas:
Take a tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spoon a few tablespoons of your shredded chicken (or beef) into the center. Then, gently fold the tortilla in half over the filling, creating a taco shape. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep all the goodness inside!
3. Fry the Tacos:
Carefully place the folded taco into the hot oil. Fry it until it’s golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes on each side. Once done, use tongs to remove the taco and let it drain on a paper towel. Repeat this with all the tortillas until you have a delicious batch!
4. Assemble and Serve:
Once all your tacos are cooked, arrange them nicely on a serving plate. Pile on the toppings: start with shredded lettuce, then sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco, add a dollop of sour cream, and finish it off with some salsa. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that extra flavor!
5. Enjoy!
Your Tacos Dorados are ready to eat! Serve them hot and enjoy every crispy, creamy bite. Perfect for a tasty meal!
Can I Use Tortillas Other Than Corn?
Yes, you can substitute corn tortillas with flour tortillas if preferred, though corn is traditional for Tacos Dorados. Keep in mind that flour tortillas may not get as crispy as corn tortillas, so adjust frying time accordingly, typically around 2-3 minutes per side.
Can I Make These Tacos Vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the shredded chicken with beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Just ensure they are well seasoned for flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Keep Tacos Warm While Frying in Batches?
To keep tacos warm while you finish frying the rest, place them on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil, then keep them in an oven set to a low temperature (around 200°F or 93°C). This will keep them warm and crispy without overcooking.
How to Store Leftover Fried Tacos?
Store any leftover fried tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat and keep them crispy, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tortillas soggy.
