Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden-brown tacos that are filled with tender meat like chicken or beef. They’re a tasty treat, perfect for a fun meal!
Honestly, who can resist that crunch? I love piling on fresh toppings like guacamole and salsa—it makes every bite a flavor party! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Using fresh corn tortillas gives the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find corn tortillas, flour tortillas work too, though they’ll change the overall taste a bit. Always look for the freshest to get that ideal pliability.
Cooked Chicken or Beef: Shredded chicken is a classic choice, but leftover roasted chicken or even rotisserie chicken are great shortcuts. If you’d like, you can substitute shredded beef or even beans for a vegetarian option.
Cotija Cheese: Cotija has a unique crumbly texture and tangy flavor. If it’s unavailable, you can use feta cheese or queso fresco as substitutes, although they will slightly change the flavor profile.
Crema or Sour Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt is a great alternative. You can also mix sour cream with a little lime juice or chipotle for added flavor!
How Do You Fry Tacos Without Making a Mess?
Frying can be tricky, but it’s all about temperature and technique. Begin by heating the oil properly before adding the tacos – this prevents them from absorbing too much oil. Here are some tips:
- Heat your oil to medium-high. You can test if it’s ready by adding a small piece of tortilla; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Let the tacos fry until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. This gives the perfect crunch!
- Remember to drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil afterwards.
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or beef)
- 1 cup lettuce, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup crema or sour cream
- 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup salsa (red or green, your choice)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can enjoy your delicious Tacos Dorados in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Fry the Tortillas:
Start by heating a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, lightly fry each corn tortilla for about 10-15 seconds on each side. You want them soft and pliable but not crispy. Once done, remove the tortillas and place them on a plate.
2. Fill the Tacos:
On one half of each tortilla, place a spoonful of shredded chicken or beef. Then, carefully fold the tortilla in half to create a taco shape. Do this for all tortillas until they are filled and folded.
3. Heat the Oil for Frying:
Next, take a deep skillet or pan and heat enough vegetable oil to submerge the tacos, about 1-2 inches deep, over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to fry the tacos crispy!
4. Fry the Tacos:
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the folded tacos in batches. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove them and drain onto paper towels to absorb the excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve your Tacos Dorados, arrange them on a plate and top with shredded lettuce, a drizzle of crema or sour cream, crumbled Cotija cheese, and your choice of salsa. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for an extra pop of flavor!
6. Final Touch:
Enjoy your Tacos Dorados warm, and feel free to serve extra salsa on the side. These crispy, delicious tacos are perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
While traditional Tacos Dorados use corn tortillas for their distinctive flavor and texture, you can substitute with flour tortillas if you prefer. Just keep in mind that flour tortillas may not get as crispy, so fry them for a little longer to achieve that golden brown color.
How Can I Make Tacos Dorados Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken or beef with sautéed vegetables, black beans, or even a mixture of refried beans and cheese for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Just be sure to season your filling well for maximum flavor!
What Oil is Best for Frying Tacos?
Vegetable oil works great, but you can also use canola oil or peanut oil for frying. These oils have high smoke points, which is ideal for achieving crispy tacos. Avoid using olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and may impart an unwanted flavor.
How to Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
To store leftover Tacos Dorados, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help them regain some crispiness, instead of using the microwave, which can make them soggy.
