Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden-fried tacos that are stuffed with your choice of tasty fillings. They’re fun to eat and perfect for any meal or snack!
These tacos are like little crunchy hugs for your favorite toppings. I love loading them up with guacamole and salsa—it’s hard to stop at just one! 🌮
Making Tacos Dorados is a breeze. Just fill corn tortillas, fry them until they’re crispy, and you’re ready for a delicious bite. Easy peasy and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Masa Harina: This corn flour is essential for making the tacos. If you can’t find masa harina, you can use regular cornmeal, but the texture will be different. Some people even use all-purpose flour, though it won’t have the same authentic taste.
Meat: While chicken, beef, or pork work perfectly, you could opt for shredded rotisserie chicken for speed or use shredded jackfruit for a vegetarian option. This keeps the dish flavorful and delightful!
Cheese: I like using queso fresco for its crumbly texture and mild flavor. If it’s not available, cotija cheese is a good substitute, though it’s a bit saltier. You could also skip the cheese entirely for a dairy-free option.
Sour Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds creaminess with extra protein and a tangy flavor similar to sour cream.
What’s the Best Technique for Frying Tacos Without Making a Mess?
Frying the tacos can be tricky, but with the right technique, you can achieve crispy perfection without a kitchen disaster. Here are my tips for success:
- Keep the oil at medium heat. Too hot can cause them to burn before cooking through, and too low will make them greasy. A test: drop a small piece of dough in; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
- Use a deep-frying thermometer if you have one. Aim for a temperature around 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully lower the folded tacos into the oil with a slotted spoon to prevent splash-back.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry just a few at a time to let them cook evenly and stay crispy.
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 to 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup cooked and shredded meat (chicken, beef, or pork)
- Oil for frying
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salsa (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes making the dough and filling the tacos, followed by about 15 minutes frying them until they’re nice and crispy. Perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt. Gradually add warm water to the flour, mixing it all together until you have a smooth dough. It should be soft but not sticky, so you can adjust the water as needed. If it feels too dry, add a little more water until it’s just right.
2. Form the Dough Balls:
Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a clean surface and cover with a damp cloth to keep them from drying out while you work on the next steps.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a frying pan, pour enough oil to cover the bottom and heat over medium heat. This will get ready for frying those tasty tacos!
4. Make the Tortillas:
Take one dough ball and flatten it using a tortilla press, or you can use a rolling pin placed between two pieces of plastic. Aim for a thin tortilla, about 6 inches wide.
5. Fill the Tacos:
Place about a tablespoon of your cooked and shredded meat in the center of the tortilla. Fold it in half to create a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal it. You want to make sure everything stays inside while frying!
6. Fry the Tacos:
Carefully place the folded taco in the hot oil. Fry it for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove it and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat this step with the remaining tortillas and filling.
7. Add Your Toppings:
Once all your tacos are fried, it’s time to dress them up! Top each taco with some shredded lettuce, crumbled cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a drizzle of salsa for extra flavor.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro on top as a final touch before serving. Enjoy your Tacos Dorados hot and fresh! They are perfect for sharing or for a satisfying meal all to yourself!
Can I Use Different Types of Flour Instead of Masa Harina?
It’s best to use masa harina for authentic Tacos Dorados, as it gives the right texture and flavor. However, if you don’t have it, cornmeal can be a substitute, but it will alter the texture. Just be sure to mix it with hot water properly to form a dough that can hold its shape.
Can I Prep the Tacos in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare your tortillas and filling separately ahead of time. Store the uncooked tortillas wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to 24 hours, and keep the shredded meat refrigerated as well. Fry them just before serving for the best crispy results!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftover tacos, let them cool down completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as that can make them soggy.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a substitute for sour cream, Greek yogurt works great and adds a nice tang. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt if you prefer a non-dairy option. Just make sure it’s unsweetened for the best flavor!
