Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden tacos filled with tasty meat or mashed potatoes. They’re a crunchy delight and perfect for dipping in salsa or guacamole!
I love the satisfying crunch that comes with every bite. These tacos are great for sharing, but beware, you might want to keep them all for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are essential for Tacos Dorados. Look for fresh ones if possible. If you can’t find corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas, but they won’t have the same classic flavor.
Shredded Chicken or Beef: I love using shredded chicken for its tenderness, but cooked beef is also delicious! For a vegetarian option, try grilled vegetables or sautéed mushrooms as a filling.
Refried Beans: Adding these is purely optional but gives the tacos a lovely creaminess. If you don’t have refried beans, you can mash up black beans or pinto beans with some spices for a quick alternative.
Queso Fresco: This crumbly cheese offers a nice contrast in texture. If you can’t find it, try feta cheese or some crumbled goat cheese instead. They add a similar saltiness and flavor.
Sour Cream: Adds a nice creaminess to the tacos. If you’re dairy-free, you could use a cashew or soy sour cream alternative.
How Do I Achieve Crispy Tacos?
Frying the tacos properly is key to getting that perfect crunch. Here’s how you can do it:
- Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat – you want it hot but not smoking.
- Once it’s ready, carefully add the rolled tacos seam-side down. This helps them stay closed.
- Fry for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and repeat.
- Remove them and let them drain on paper towels; this keeps them crispy.
Don’t rush the frying process. Let the oil heat up properly, and keep an eye on the tacos. Enjoy the crunchy texture with every bite!
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or beef)
- 1 cup refried beans (optional)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup crumbled queso fresco
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ cup salsa (your choice, red or green)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 10 minutes for frying. So in total, you’ll be ready to serve delicious Tacos Dorados in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tortillas:
Start by heating a small amount of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. If you’re using refried beans, take your tortillas and spread a thin layer of beans on each one. This adds a nice creaminess!
2. Roll the Tacos:
Now, place a generous amount of shredded chicken (or beef) in the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly, making sure the filling stays inside. This will form your tacos.
3. Fry the Tacos:
Carefully place the rolled tacos seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, and make sure to turn them over for even cooking. Once done, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble and Serve:
Once all the tacos are fried, arrange them on a serving plate. Top each taco with shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, a drizzle of sour cream, and your choice of salsa. The vibrant colors will make your dish look inviting!
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish by garnishing with fresh chopped cilantro. Now you’re ready to enjoy your Tacos Dorados! Serve them with your favorite sides or extra salsas for a perfect meal.
Can I Use Store-Bought Shredded Chicken or Beef?
Absolutely! Store-bought shredded rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked beef can save you time. Just make sure to reheat it slightly before filling your tortillas to ensure everything is warm and delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Queso Fresco?
If you can’t find queso fresco, you can use feta cheese or cotija cheese as a substitute. Both will provide a similar salty flavor and crumbly texture. Just crumble it over the tacos before serving for a tasty alternative!
How do I Keep Tacos Dorados Crispy?
To maintain that delicious crunch, serve the tacos immediately after frying. If you’re making them ahead of time, keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) on a baking sheet. This way, they stay crispy while you finish frying the rest!
Can I Freeze Leftover Tacos Dorados?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Cool the tacos completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for about 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again.
