Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden tortillas filled with delicious meat, potatoes, or cheese. They’re like little flavor bombs wrapped in tasty crunch!
When it comes to toppings, you can get creative with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. I can’t resist piling on the toppings—it’s Taco Heaven! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas are key for a crispy texture. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought ones. Flour tortillas are an alternative, but they won’t be as crunchy.
Chicken: Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or opt for shredded beef, turkey, or beans for a vegetarian version. I personally love using shredded beef for a richer flavor!
Refried Beans: Refried beans add creaminess. If you want a lighter option, consider black beans or lentils. You can even skip the beans if you’re looking for less filling.
Queso Fresco: While crumbled queso fresco enhances the tacos, feta cheese is a great substitute in flavor. If you prefer a creamier choice, try goat cheese.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish, but if you’re not a fan, green onions or parsley can work in its place.
How Do I Get My Tacos Crispy Without Burning Them?
Frying tacos to get them crispy can be tricky. The key is to manage the oil temperature carefully. If the oil is too hot, the outside can burn before the inside is warmed. Use a thermometer if you have one, but if not, test with a small piece of tortilla first.
- Heat oil to medium. A drop of water should sizzle when it hits the surface.
- Carefully place the folded tacos into the oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side; you’re looking for a nice golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels immediately and sprinkle with salt to enhance the flavor.
Enjoy making these tacos dorados! They are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any gathering.
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or other protein of choice)
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa (red or green)
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Oil for frying
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and then around 20 minutes for frying the tacos. It’s a quick and tasty dish to whip up for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Oil:
Start by heating about 1 inch of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough to fry the tacos, but not so hot that it burns them. A good test is to drop a small piece of tortilla into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
2. Preparing the Tacos:
Take each tortilla and spread a thin layer of refried beans on one side. Then, add a spoonful of shredded chicken on top of the beans. Fold the tortilla in half carefully to form a taco shape and press it gently to help keep the filling inside.
3. Frying the Tacos:
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the folded tacos into the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Then, flip them over and fry the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Be sure to watch them closely so they don’t burn.
4. Draining and Seasoning:
After frying, use a slotted spoon to remove the tacos and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any extra oil. While they’re still hot, sprinkle a pinch of salt over them for added flavor.
5. Serving the Tacos:
To serve, arrange the tacos on a plate. Top them with shredded lettuce, a drizzle of sour cream, a spoonful of salsa, crumbled queso fresco, and chopped fresh cilantro. Your tacos dorados are now ready to enjoy!
6. Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious tacos dorados while they’re warm. They pair well with extra salsa or your favorite hot sauce for that perfect kick!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
While you can use flour tortillas, corn tortillas are traditional for tacos dorados and provide a distinctive flavor and texture. If you choose flour, be mindful that they may not get as crispy and might require slightly different frying times.
What If I Don’t Have Refried Beans?
No problem! You can mash cooked black beans or pinto beans as a substitute. Just add a little seasoning like cumin or garlic powder to enhance the flavor. Alternatively, you could use a layer of guacamole for a creamier texture.
How Can I Make These Tacos Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian option, simply replace the shredded chicken with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or a mix of your favorites. You can also add more beans or even quinoa for extra protein!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They may lose some crispness, so to reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed and crispy again.
