These crispy tacos dorados are golden little pockets of happiness! Filled with your choice of meat and fried until crunchy, they’re perfect for any meal.
Honestly, who can resist that crispy shell? I could eat a whole plate on my own! 😋 Pair them with some salsa or guacamole for a tasty treat that’s easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are essential for authentic tacos dorados. If you don’t have corn, flour tortillas will work, but they won’t be as crisp. I love using fresh, homemade tortillas when possible!
Cooked Shredded Chicken: This is a great way to use leftover roast chicken! If you need a vegetarian option, try filling them with mashed potatoes, beans, or sautéed veggies. Ground beef is another tasty alternative.
Grated Cheese: I often add Oaxaca cheese for its meltiness, but Monterey Jack is also a fine choice. If you want to keep it dairy-free, skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative that melts well.
Vegetable Oil: Use any neutral-flavored oil, like canola or sunflower, for frying. Avoid olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can get bitter when heated too much.
How Do I Fry Tacos Without Making a Mess?
Frying can be tricky, but with some care, you can keep it neat! Follow these tips to avoid splatters:
- Use a deep skillet to keep the oil contained. A cast-iron skillet works great!
- Heat the oil slowly on medium-high. Toss in a small piece of tortilla to test the temperature — it should bubble right away.
- Fry in small batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or it will lower the oil temperature and make them greasy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove tacos and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
By keeping the oil hot and cooking in batches, you can achieve perfect crispy tacos without too much fuss! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Crispy Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 lb cooked shredded chicken (or ground beef/potato for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup grated cheese (optional, Oaxaca or Monterey Jack)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Salsa roja or your favorite hot sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy for a delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Warm the Tortillas:
Start by warming the corn tortillas on a comal or skillet over medium heat for about 10-15 seconds on each side. This makes them pliable and prevents cracking when you fold them.
2. Fill the Tortillas:
Take each tortilla and place about 2-3 tablespoons of shredded chicken (or your chosen filling) on one half. If you like cheese, sprinkle some grated cheese on top of the filling.
3. Fold and Prepare for Frying:
Fold the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Gently press the edges together to partially seal them. You don’t need to seal them completely like a dumpling.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a small piece of tortilla bubbles immediately when dipped in. Aim for about 350°F.
5. Fry the Tacos:
Fry the folded tacos in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, carefully remove them and let them drain on a paper towel.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Now, it’s time to serve! Place the crispy tacos dorados on a bed of shredded lettuce. Drizzle with some Mexican crema, add a spoonful of salsa, and sprinkle crumbled queso fresco on top. Don’t forget to add fresh cilantro for that extra flavor!
7. Enjoy!
Serve them hot and crispy! These tacos are perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a party snack. Enjoy every bite!
These tacos dorados are delightfully crispy on the outside and flavorful inside — a simple and satisfying Mexican classic! Enjoy your cooking! 🌮
FAQ for Easy Crispy Tacos Dorados
Can I Use Store-Bought Tortillas?
Absolutely! Store-bought corn tortillas are a great option for making tacos dorados. Just ensure they are fresh and warm them slightly before filling to prevent cracking.
What Can I Substitute for Shredded Chicken?
You can use any cooked meat like shredded beef or even a vegetarian filling like mashed potatoes or a mix of sautéed vegetables. Black beans or refried beans also work well for a hearty vegetarian taco.
How Do I Make Tacos Dorados Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the filling and assemble the tacos ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and fry them just before serving to keep them crispy. You can also freeze them before frying for meal prep—just thaw and fry when you’re ready!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving them, as they can become soggy.
