Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden-fried tacos that are simply irresistible! Stuffed with tasty fillings like beef, chicken, or potatoes, they are perfect for a quick meal or snack.
These little wonders are like crunchy hugs of flavor! I love piling on fresh toppings like salsa, cheese, and guacamole to make them extra special. Yum!
Making Tacos Dorados is a breeze! Just fill, fry, and enjoy—they’re always a hit at my gatherings. Who can resist that crunch? 🙌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are essential for Tacos Dorados. If you can’t find corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas, but the taste will be different. I prefer the authentic flavor of corn tortillas for this recipe.
Cooked Shredded Chicken (or Beef): You can easily substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or black beans instead, which are also delicious!
Oil for Frying: Vegetable oil works well, but canola oil or sunflower oil are also great alternatives. I recommend using oils with a high smoke point for frying.
Cotija Cheese: If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese can work as a substitute. I often use feta because it adds a nice tangy flavor to the tacos. Also, shredded Monterey Jack can be a good choice.
Salsa: Feel free to use your favorite salsa, whether it’s red or green. I like to make my own for a fresh twist, but store-bought options can save time!
How Do I Fry Tacos Without Making a Mess?
Frying tacos can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to avoiding splatters. Here are some tips to help you fry the tacos crisply and efficiently:
- Use a deep frying pan to allow enough oil for the tacos to submerge halfway, keeping them from sticking.
- Heat the oil until it’s hot but not smoking. A simple test is to drop a small piece of tortilla in; it should sizzle immediately.
- Carefully place the tacos in the oil one at a time, and don’t overcrowd the pan. This allows them to cook evenly.
- Flip the tacos carefully using tongs, so you don’t spill the filling or burn yourself.
- Drain excess oil by placing the cooked tacos on paper towels to keep them crispy.
With these tips, your Tacos Dorados will be crunchy and delicious every time!
How to Make Tacos Dorados?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or beef)
- 1 cup oil (for frying)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup salsa (red or green)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes making the filling and preparing the tortillas. The frying and assembling should take about 20 minutes. Perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Combine the cooked shredded chicken (or beef) with salt and pepper to taste. Mix it all together until it’s nicely seasoned. This is your tasty filling!
2. Heat the Tortillas:
Next, heat up a skillet over medium heat. Lightly toast the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them soft and pliable, perfect for folding into tacos.
3. Fill the Tortillas:
Now it’s time to build your tacos. Take one tortilla and add about 2 tablespoons of the meat filling right in the center. Fold it in half to create a taco shape. Repeat this process until you’ve filled all the tortillas.
4. Fry the Tacos:
In a large frying pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the filled tacos (you can fry them in batches if your pan isn’t big enough). Fry each taco until they are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes on each side. When done, remove them and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Assemble and Serve:
For the final touch, take a large plate and arrange a few of your crispy tacos dorados. Top each taco with shredded lettuce, a drizzle of sour cream, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a spoonful of salsa. Looks delicious, right?
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Tacos Dorados immediately while they are hot and crispy. You can even add some extra salsa on the side for more flavor. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Store-Bought Chicken or Beef for the Filling?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken or canned shredded beef for a quick and easy filling. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned with salt and pepper before using.
What If I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No worries! You can substitute with flour tortillas, but keep in mind they may not hold together as well when frying. If using flour tortillas, toast them just like corn tortillas to make them pliable.
How to Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness rather than using a microwave.
Can I Bake Tacos Instead of Frying Them?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the filled tortillas on a baking sheet, brush with a bit of oil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. This is a healthier alternative to frying!
