Tortilla chips are crunchy snacks made from corn tortillas, cut into triangles, and baked or fried until crispy. They are perfect for dipping into salsa or guacamole!
These chips are so simple to make that you might wonder why you ever bought them! I love to make a big batch and munch on them during movie night. Grab your favorite dip and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are what give chips their unique flavor and texture. If you’re out of corn tortillas, try flour tortillas for a different taste, though they’ll be chewier and less crispy.
Vegetable Oil: While vegetable oil works great for frying, grapeseed or canola oil can be good substitutes. For a healthier option, consider using olive oil, but it has a lower smoke point, so watch the heat closely.
Salt: Adjust the amount of salt to your liking. If you’re watching sodium, try using a salt substitute or seasoning blends for flavor.
How Can I Fry Tortilla Chips Perfectly?
Frying tortilla chips perfectly can be tricky, but here’s what you need to know! The right oil temperature is key—ideal frying happens at around 350°F (175°C). Too cool and they’ll go soggy; too hot and they’ll burn.
- Use a thermometer if you have one, or test the oil by dipping a corner of a tortilla—if it sizzles, it’s ready.
- Fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature. Each batch should take just 2-3 minutes, flip them for even cooking.
- Let chips drain on paper towels and sprinkle salt while they’re warm for better adherence. Enjoy your chips crispy and fresh!
Homemade Tortilla Chips
Ingredients:
- 10 corn tortillas
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes for frying. In total, you’ll have crispy tortilla chips ready in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Tortillas:
Start by stacking the corn tortillas neatly. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut them into six to eight triangular pieces. You want bite-sized pieces for dipping!
2. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour 1 ½ cups of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach about 350°F (175°C). A simple test: dip a corner of a tortilla in the oil. If it sizzles, it’s ready!
3. Fry the Chips:
Add the tortilla triangles to the hot oil in small batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can make them soggy. Fry each batch for about 2 to 3 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crisp.
4. Drain the Chips:
Carefully remove the chips from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain off the excess oil. This helps keep them crispy!
5. Season the Chips:
While the chips are still warm, sprinkle them evenly with salt. Adjust the salt to your liking—taste testing is always a good idea!
6. Finish Frying:
Continue to fry the remaining tortilla pieces until all the chips are done. Remember to let them drain after frying!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chips have cooled slightly, serve them with lime wedges and your favorite dips like salsa, guacamole, or queso. Enjoy your deliciously crispy homemade tortilla chips!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn?
Absolutely! While corn tortillas are traditional for tortilla chips, flour tortillas can work if you prefer their taste. Just keep in mind that they may turn out chewier than the classic crispiness of corn chips.
How Do I Store Leftover Tortilla Chips?
To keep your tortilla chips fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If they lose their crispness, try baking them at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to revive their crunch!
Can I Bake the Chips Instead of Frying Them?
Yes! To bake them, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the tortilla triangles in a single layer on a baking sheet, lightly brush with oil, and bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
What Dips Pair Best With Tortilla Chips?
Popular dips include salsa, guacamole, and queso. You can also try them with bean dip, spinach artichoke dip, or even a spicy cheese dip for extra flavor!
