Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden-fried tacos that are simply irresistible! Filled with tasty meat and topped with fresh veggies, they make for a crunchy delight.
These tacos are great for parties or a fun family dinner! I love adding a dollop of sour cream on top, it’s messy, but oh-so-wonderful! Who can resist? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are essential for authentic tacos dorados. If you can’t find corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas, but they will have a different texture. I find that homemade corn tortillas are even tastier if you have the time!
Cooked Meat: Shredded chicken, beef, or pork all work well. For a lighter option, you could even use tofu or beans for a vegetarian version. I like using rotisserie chicken because it’s quick and full of flavor.
Oil for Frying: Vegetable or canola oil are great for frying due to their high smoke points. If you want a healthier option, you could use avocado oil. Just remember not to overcrowd the pan to keep the oil hot!
Sour Cream: Instead of sour cream, consider Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. If you’re dairy-free, try avocado or a dairy-free cream alternative. I love the creaminess of sour cream, but yogurt adds a nice tang!
Cheese: Queso fresco or cotija offer that perfect crumbly texture. If you can’t find them, feta cheese works as a decent substitute. However, I always prefer the original for its authentic flavor.
How Do You Fry Tacos to Make Them Extra Crispy?
Frying tacos dorados is all about achieving that perfect crispy texture. The key is to keep your oil at the right temperature. If it’s too cold, your tacos will soak up oil and become greasy.
- Heat oil to about 350°F (175°C) before frying. It’s great to test with a small piece of tortilla first.
- Carefully slide in the folded tacos, ensuring there’s enough space to fry without crowding them.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use tongs for easy flipping!
- Let them drain on paper towels to remove extra oil before serving.
And remember, the fresher the taco, the better! Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and get that desired crunch!
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked meat (such as shredded chicken, beef, or pork)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa (your choice)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare. This includes about 10 minutes for filling the tortillas and frying them, plus a few minutes for assembling your delicious tacos. It’s a fun and quick dish that is perfect for any mealtime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
First, pour about an inch of oil into a large frying pan and heat it over medium heat. It should be hot enough that a small piece of tortilla sizzles when added. This will help you achieve that crispy texture we all love.
2. Fill the Tortillas:
While the oil is heating, take one corn tortilla and add a small amount of cooked meat to one side. Then, fold the tortilla in half to create a taco shape. Repeat this with the remaining tortillas and meat until you have them ready to fry!
3. Fry the Tacos:
Once your oil is hot, carefully place a folded taco in the oil. Be cautious, as the oil might splatter a bit! Fry it for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it turns a beautiful golden brown and is crispy. After frying, remove the taco and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
After frying all of your tacos, layer them on a serving plate. It’s time to make them look delicious!
5. Add Toppings:
Top your crispy tacos with shredded lettuce, a dollop of sour cream, crumbled cheese, and your favorite salsa. The vibrant colors of these toppings will make your tacos even more appealing!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and freshness. Serve your Tacos Dorados immediately while they are still hot and crispy. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Store-Bought Tortillas Instead of Homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought corn tortillas work just fine for Tacos Dorados. Just be sure to warm them slightly before filling to make them more pliable and easier to fold before frying.
What If I Don’t Have Queso Fresco or Cotija Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute with shredded cheese varieties like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor slightly, but they will still taste delicious!
How Can I Make These Tacos Healthier?
You can bake the tacos instead of frying them. Brush them lightly with oil and place them folded on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have any leftover tacos, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy.
