Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden tacos filled with tasty goodness! You can stuff them with meat, cheese, or beans, making each one a little treasure of flavor.
These crunchy bites are perfect for any meal or snack. I love serving them with fresh salsa and guacamole. They always bring a smile to everyone’s face! 🌮😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: I love using fresh corn tortillas because they have the best texture and flavor. If you can’t find fresh ones, look for high-quality store-bought options. You could even use flour tortillas as a substitute, though the taste will differ a bit.
Shredded Chicken: While chicken is great, you can use any filling you prefer! Cooked ground beef, grilled shrimp, or even mashed potatoes work well. For a vegetarian option, try black beans or a mix of sautéed vegetables.
Vegetable Oil: This is needed for frying, but you can use canola or peanut oil if that’s what you have on hand. Both provide a neutral flavor. For a healthier option, consider air frying or baking the tacos instead.
Queso Fresco: Crumbled queso fresco adds a lovely creamy touch. If you can’t find it, feta cheese is a good alternative, or you can try a mild goat cheese for a different flavor.
How Do I Fry Tacos to Get Them Perfectly Crispy?
Frying tacos is fun but requires attention to ensure they turn out crispy and golden. Here are tips to nail the frying process:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat—make sure it’s hot enough before adding the tortillas. A good test is to drop in a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle immediately.
- When placing the folded tortilla into the oil, do it gently to avoid splashes. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, adjusting the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
- Use a slotted spoon to flip and remove the tacos, allowing the excess oil to drain on paper towels. This keeps them crispy rather than soggy.
How to Make Tacos Dorados?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tacos:
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (or any filling like beef or potatoes)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa (red or green)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and another 20 minutes for frying, for a total of around 35 minutes. You’ll quickly fill and fry your Tacos Dorados, making it a fun and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a skillet, add the vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat until it’s hot. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of tortilla in; it should sizzle immediately.
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
While the oil is heating, take one corn tortilla and place a small amount of your cooked and shredded chicken (or your filling of choice) in the center. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing down gently to seal it well.
3. Fry the Tacos:
Carefully place the folded tortilla into the hot oil. Fry each taco until it turns golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes for each side. Once done, use tongs to remove it from the oil and place the taco on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Assemble and Serve:
Once all the tacos are fried, arrange them on a serving plate. Top each taco with shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, a dollop of sour cream, and a spoonful of salsa. Finally, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for a fresh finish.
5. Enjoy!
Serve your Tacos Dorados immediately while they are still warm and crispy. Enjoy your delicious homemade tacos!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer! Just keep in mind that flour tortillas may not get as crispy as corn tortillas when fried. Fry them for a little less time, about 2-3 minutes per side, to prevent them from becoming too chewy.
How Can I Make These Tacos Gluten-Free?
To make Tacos Dorados gluten-free, simply ensure that you use corn tortillas that are labeled as gluten-free. Most corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good to check the packaging. All other ingredients should be gluten-free as well!
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Absolutely! You can cook and shred the chicken (or your chosen filling) a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to make the tacos, simply fill the tortillas with the cold filling and fry them as directed. If you want, you can warm the filling slightly before filling the tortillas for better frying results.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
If you have any leftovers, store the fried tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again. Be careful not to microwave them, as that can make them soggy!
