Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden tacos that are packed with flavor. They’re usually filled with delicious meats like chicken or beef, and then fried until they’re crunchy all over!
You can top them with sour cream, lettuce, and salsa for a tasty treat. I love making these for quick dinners because they’re always a hit with everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are essential for Tacos Dorados. They offer a lovely corn flavor and crisp when fried. If you’re gluten-sensitive, these are great. Flour tortillas can be a substitute if you prefer, but they won’t get as crispy.
Shredded Chicken: I love using cooked, shredded chicken for ease. Leftover roasted chicken works perfectly too! If you want a beef version, shredded beef or ground beef can work well. For a vegetarian option, consider using beans or sautéed veggies.
Vegetable Oil: This oil is perfect for frying due to its high smoke point. However, you could substitute it with canola oil or peanut oil if preferred. If you want to keep it lighter, consider baking them instead of frying.
Cheese: I recommend Cotija or queso fresco for their crumbly texture and flavor. If those aren’t available, feta can be a good backup. Just be cautious of the saltiness!
How Do You Fry Tacos Without Making a Mess?
Frying can be tricky, especially when it comes to splattering oil! Keeping oil at the right temperature is key to crispy tacos. Too hot, and they burn; too cold, and they soak up oil.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to medium-high before adding tacos.
- Fry a few at a time to prevent overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
- Use tongs to carefully flip and remove tacos when golden brown.
- Let them rest on paper towels to drain excess oil for a cleaner finish.
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (or beef)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled cheese (like Cotija or queso fresco)
- 1/4 cup salsa (red or green, based on preference)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10-15 minutes for cooking. You’ll have delicious, crispy Tacos Dorados ready in about 30 minutes total. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by pouring the vegetable oil into a skillet and heating it over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough that it bubbles when you add the tacos, but be careful not to burn it!
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
While the oil is getting hot, warm the corn tortillas. You can do this by placing them in a dry skillet over low heat for a minute on each side or by popping them in the microwave for about 30 seconds. The goal is to make them soft and pliable.
3. Fill the Tortillas:
Once your tortillas are warm, take them one at a time. Place a few tablespoons of cooked, shredded chicken (or beef) in the center. Fold each tortilla in half and press down gently to seal the filling inside.
4. Fry the Tacos:
Carefully slide the folded tacos into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a delicious golden brown and become crispy. Use a slotted spoon to flip them and make sure they fry evenly.
5. Drain Excess Oil:
Once the tacos are crispy, use a slotted spoon to lift them out of the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help soak up any extra oil and keep them crispy!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to get creative! Arrange the tacos on a serving plate. Top each one with shredded lettuce, a dollop of sour cream, crumbled cheese, a spoonful of salsa, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Don’t forget to season with salt to taste!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Tacos Dorados are ready to eat! Serve them hot and enjoy your homemade deliciousness. They’re perfect for sharing – but you might want to keep some for yourself!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but keep in mind that they will give a slightly different texture and flavor. Flour tortillas tend to be softer and may not crisp up as nicely as corn tortillas. Fry them for a similar amount of time, but check for desired crispiness.
How Can I Make Tacos Dorados Without Frying?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the tacos instead! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the filled tortillas on a baking sheet, brush them lightly with oil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are crispy and golden brown.
What Can I Substitute for Shredded Chicken or Beef?
You can easily substitute shredded chicken or beef with other proteins like shredded pork, cooked beans for a vegetarian option, or even tofu. Just make sure the substitute is fully cooked before filling the tortillas!
How to Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
To store leftovers, place any uneaten tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which will help retain their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
