These Easy Crispy Tacos Dorados are simply delightful! Imagine crunchy tortillas filled with yummy meat, and all topped with fresh veggies and salsa. They’re a crowd-pleaser!
Whenever I make these, they disappear fast. I mean, who can resist a crispy taco? I like to serve them with a side of guacamole—it makes everything even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: I recommend using small corn tortillas for the best flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, flour tortillas work too, but they won’t be as crispy. You can also look for gluten-free options if needed.
Meat: I often go with shredded chicken because it’s so easy to prepare. If you’re vegetarian, try using refried beans or lentils, which can be seasoned similarly. Ground beef is also a classic choice!
Cheese: Queso fresco is my go-to for tacos, but cotija adds a nice flavor too! If you’re in a different country, shredded mozzarella can be a good replacement.
Vegetable Oil: Opt for oils with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil. Olive oil can be used, but it might not puff the tacos as nicely.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Crispy Tacos?
Achieving that perfect crunch in your tacos dorados is all about the frying technique. First, make sure your oil is at the right temperature—350°F (175°C) is ideal. If the oil is not hot enough, the tacos will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Warm tortillas briefly before filling them; this makes folding easier.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry in batches to keep the temperature consistent.
- Turn tacos gently during frying to avoid tearing.
- Let them drain on paper towels immediately after frying for extra crispiness.
Easy Crispy Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken or ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Mexican crema or sour cream, for topping
- Salsa roja or your favorite red salsa, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 25 minutes in total. Around 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking and frying. It’s a great quick meal option for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Next, stir in your choice of cooked shredded chicken or ground beef. Add ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring until heated through and well seasoned. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
Warm the corn tortillas slightly to make them easier to fold. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp kitchen towel and microwaving for about 30 seconds, or you can warm them on a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side.
3. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to fill the tortillas! Place 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture right in the center of each tortilla. Carefully fold each tortilla in half, gently pressing to seal the edges. If you need extra security, feel free to use a toothpick to hold them together.
4. Fry the Tacos:
In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want it to be hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) so that when you add the tacos, they start bubbling right away. Fry the tacos in batches. Turn them occasionally until they become golden and crispy on both sides, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once fried, remove the tacos from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil. To serve, place a portion of shredded lettuce on each plate and top it with 2-3 crispy tacos dorados. Finish off with garnishes of crumbled queso fresco, fresh cilantro leaves, a drizzle of Mexican crema or sour cream, and a generous spoonful of salsa roja.
6. Enjoy!
Serve these delicious tacos immediately while they’re crispy and warm, and enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Tacos Dorados
Can I Use Store-Bought Meat For This Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked ground beef can save you time and still taste delicious. Just shred or heat it up before mixing in the spices!
What If I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No worries! If you can’t find corn tortillas, flour tortillas work as a substitute, though they might not get as crispy. Just remember to warm them beforehand to make folding easier.
How Can I Make These Tacos Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for a mix of refried beans or sautéed black beans with spices. You can add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet for a few minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
