Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden delights filled with tasty goodness. Made with soft tortillas that are rolled up and fried to perfection, these tacos are a crunchy treat!
They are super fun to make and even better to eat. Pair them with some fresh toppings like salsa and guacamole for a party on your plate! I could eat these every day—who’s with me? 🌮✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are essential for the authentic flavor. If you can’t find corn tortillas, consider using flour tortillas, though they won’t give you the same crunch.
Shredded Chicken or Beef: I love using chicken for a lighter option, but leftover roast beef works great too. For a vegetarian twist, try black beans or sautéed mushrooms!
Cotija Cheese: This cheese brings a salty kick to your tacos. If unavailable, crumble feta or use grated Parmesan instead for a different flavor profile.
Salsa: You can use your favorite store-bought salsa, but fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onion, and lime juice provides a punchy taste. If you prefer spicy, opt for a green salsa!
Sour Cream: If you’re looking for something lighter, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for a creamy topping.
How Do You Fry Tacos for the Perfect Crispiness?
Frying tacos can be tricky, but with the right technique, you’ll achieve a perfect crunch. Start by heating your oil to the right temperature; it should shimmer, but not smoke. Here’s how you do it:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat – aim for about 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add your tacos in batches; too many will lower the oil’s temperature and make them soggy.
- Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use a fork or tongs to flip them gently.
- Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil and keep that crunch!
Remember to keep watch on the heat; if the tacos start to brown quickly, lower the heat to avoid burning. Enjoy your crispy creations!
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or beef)
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup cheese (Queso Fresco or Cotija), crumbled
- 1 cup lettuce, finely shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa (red or green)
Other:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and about 15 minutes for frying. In total, you can enjoy your tacos dorados in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a bowl, mix the cooked and shredded chicken or beef with a pinch of salt. This will give the meat some extra flavor. Make sure it’s well combined!
2. Assemble the Tacos:
To make the corn tortillas easier to work with, warm them slightly in a pan over low heat for about a minute. Place a couple of tablespoons of the meat filling on one half of each tortilla. Fold the tortillas in half to form tacos. It’s okay if they don’t look perfect, just make sure they are sealed closed!
3. Fry the Tacos:
In a large skillet, add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom (about 1/2 inch deep) and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place a few tacos in the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remember, don’t crowd the pan; you can fry them in batches if needed!
4. Drain:
Once the tacos are cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels. This will help soak up any extra oil and keep them crispy.
5. Top the Tacos:
Now it’s time to load up your tacos! On each taco, add some shredded lettuce, crumbled cheese, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle with sour cream and top with your choice of salsa. Feel free to make them as loaded as you like!
6. Serve:
Enjoy your tacos dorados immediately while they are hot and crispy. Offer extra salsa or toppings on the side, so everyone can customize their tacos. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for the Filling?
Absolutely! You can use shredded beef, pork, or even a mix of different meats. For a vegetarian version, consider using sautéed vegetables or beans as a filling instead of meat. Just be sure to season well!
How Can I Make Tacos Dorados Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the filling and assemble the tacos a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to fry them. Frying them fresh right before serving ensures they stay crispy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftover tacos, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, but note that they may lose their crispiness. To reheat, consider baking them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes instead of microwaving, to keep them crunchy.
Can I Make the Tacos Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just ensure you use gluten-free corn tortillas. Many brands are available that cater to gluten-free diets, so you can enjoy delicious tacos dorados without worry.
