Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden tortillas filled with tasty ingredients like chicken or beef. They’re fried to perfection, making them extra crunchy and delicious!
Honestly, who can resist a good taco? I love loading them up with fresh toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa. They’re simple to make and a total crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are essential for creating the iconic shape and texture of Tacos Dorados. If you’re short on corn tortillas, you could use flour tortillas, but they won’t have the same flavor. You can also look for gluten-free tortillas if needed.
Shredded Chicken or Beef: You can swap the chicken for beef if that’s your preference. For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken works perfectly! Alternatively, for a vegetarian twist, try using sautéed mushrooms or lentils for that heartiness.
Refried Beans: These add creaminess and flavor to your tacos. If you don’t have refried beans, mashed black beans or even hummus can work in a pinch. Just add some spices to make it flavorful.
Queso Fresco or Cotija: This cheese adds a nice salty touch. If you can’t find them, feta cheese is a decent substitute, though it has a stronger flavor. You could also skip it for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Tacos?
Frying the tacos is a key part of the recipe that requires attention for that crispy texture. It’s important to use the right oil temperature. Too hot, and the tortillas burn; too cool, and they get greasy.
- Use a deep skillet and heat enough vegetable oil to cover at least half of the taco.
- When the oil is hot (you can test by dropping in a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle), gently place the folded tacos in the oil.
- Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the heat.
- Let them drain on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil for a crunchier taco!
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
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup lettuce, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (or cotija cheese)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salsa (for topping)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes warming the tortillas and assembling the tacos, and then another 10 minutes frying them until they’re crispy. Delicious and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Warm the Tortillas:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Take your corn tortillas and warm them for about 30 seconds on each side. This will help make them soft and easy to fold.
2. Assemble the Tacos:
Spread a thin layer of refried beans on one half of each tortilla. Then, add a portion of shredded chicken or beef on top of the beans. Don’t forget to season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for extra flavor!
3. Fold the Tacos:
Now, fold each tortilla in half to create that classic taco shape. Make sure to press them gently to keep the filling inside.
4. Fry the Tacos:
Next, in a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully fry the tacos in batches, turning them occasionally until they’re golden brown and super crispy—this should take about 3-4 minutes on each side. When they’re done, remove them and let them drain on paper towels to get rid of any extra oil.
5. Add Toppings:
It’s time to serve! On each plate, place your crispy fried tacos. Top them with a handful of shredded lettuce, a dollop of sour cream, some crumbled queso fresco, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
6. Finish with Salsa:
Drizzle your tacos with salsa to your liking for that extra kick, and they’re ready to enjoy! Serve immediately and dig in!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer! Just keep in mind that they may not get as crispy as corn tortillas when fried. Make sure to warm them up as directed before folding and frying to prevent them from tearing.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make Tacos Dorados vegetarian, simply skip the meat and use additional refried beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms as the filling. Season them with your favorite spices for added flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Tacos Dorados in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as that may make them soggy.
Can I Use Shredded Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just make sure to remove any skin and bones before using it in your tacos. You may want to warm it up slightly before adding it to the tortillas.
