Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden tacos filled with delicious meat and spices. They’re like little crunchy pockets of joy, perfect for dipping in salsa!
Who doesn’t love a taco that’s golden and crunchy? I like to pair mine with some fresh guacamole for an extra flavor kick. Trust me, you’ll be wanting seconds! 🌮✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are essential for Tacos Dorados. They provide a unique flavor and texture. If you can’t find corn tortillas, feel free to use flour tortillas, but the taste will slightly differ.
Shredded Chicken: I love using cooked chicken for a quick meal. You can substitute with cooked beef or pork, or even go meatless with refried beans or sautéed vegetables if you prefer, especially for a lighter option.
Vegetable Oil: This is key for frying. While I use vegetable oil, you could also try canola or peanut oil for frying. Both are good alternatives that work well for high-temperature cooking.
Queso Fresco: This cheese adds a nice creamy flavor. If you can’t find it, try using feta or a mild goat cheese. Both can provide a similar texture and taste.
Fresh Cilantro: I love adding cilantro for freshness. If you’re not a fan, you can easily swap it out for green onions or simply omit it entirely.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Tacos?
Frying the tacos to crispy perfection is crucial. Here’s how to make sure they come out just right:
- Heat oil in a skillet until it’s shimmering, but not smoking. Test by dropping a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle.
- When adding tacos to the oil, be sure to not crowd them. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Cook each taco until golden brown on one side, then carefully flip. Each side should take about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once they are done, remove them and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. This keeps them crispy!
With these tips, you’ll have tasty, crispy tacos every time. Enjoy and get creative with your toppings!
How to Make Tacos Dorados?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (or beef/pork)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa (red or green)
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or any mild cheese)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. With a little patience frying those tacos to perfection, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oil:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Pour in about 1/4 cup of vegetable oil. You want it hot enough for frying, so let it warm up while you prepare the tacos.
2. Assemble the Tacos:
Once your oil is hot, take a corn tortilla and place a small amount of your cooked and shredded chicken (or any meat you prefer) onto one half of the tortilla. Carefully fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape. Press gently to secure that delicious filling inside. Repeat this process with all the tortillas until you have them all filled.
3. Fry the Tacos:
Now it’s time to fry! Carefully add the folded tacos to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently. Once done, place the tacos on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
4. Prepare the Toppings:
While your tacos are draining, get your toppings ready. In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa, and crumbled cheese. This will be a fresh and flavorful topping to complement your crispy tacos.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to enjoy your Tacos Dorados! Serve them hot, topped with the delicious lettuce mixture, a bit more salsa, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for that extra pop of flavor. Feel free to add any other sides or garnishes you like!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but keep in mind that they may not be as crispy as corn tortillas when fried. You’ll need to adjust the frying time slightly, as flour tortillas tend to cook faster. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
How Do I Make a Vegetarian Version of Tacos Dorados?
To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat with a mixture of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms or even use beans for protein. Season with salt and spices to enhance the flavor!
Can I Bake Tacos Dorados Instead of Frying Them?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the filled tacos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly spray with cooking oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway for even cooking.
How to Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
To store leftovers, allow the tacos to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
