Tacos Dorados are crispy golden tacos filled with deliciousness! Typically, they are stuffed with savory potatoes or meat and then fried until perfectly crunchy.
There’s something magical about that crunch when you take a bite! I love adding fresh salsa or guacamole on top to take them to the next level. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Masa Harina: This corn flour is essential for the dough’s texture. If you can’t find masa harina, you might use regular cornmeal. Just keep in mind the texture won’t be the same, and the flavor could be a bit different!
Shredded Chicken: Using cooked shredded chicken is convenient, but you can swap it out for shredded beef, pork, or even a vegetarian mix like beans or sautéed vegetables. It’s all about your taste preference!
Mexican Crema: If you don’t have Mexican crema, sour cream is a great substitute. You can also mix sour cream with a little lime juice for added tanginess.
Queso Fresco: This cheese adds a nice salty bite. If you can’t find it, crumbled cotija or even feta cheese will work well. They have similar textures and flavors.
How Can I Make the Dough Hold Together Just Right?
Getting the masa harina and water mixed correctly is crucial. Start with your masa harina in a bowl, then add water gradually. Mix until it forms a smooth dough. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add a tablespoon of water at a time. If it’s too wet and sticky, sprinkle some more masa harina. Aim for a dough that doesn’t stick to your fingers.
What’s the Best Technique for Frying Tacos Dorados?
Frying these tacos to perfection takes some care. Here’s how you can do it:
- Heat oil in a skillet to medium heat. It should be hot enough for a small piece of dough to sizzle when you drop it in.
- Carefully slide in the tacos. Don’t overcrowd the pan; they need room to cook evenly.
- Let them fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Use tongs to flip them and check for that golden color. Drain on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.
Taking your time with frying will lead to deliciously crispy tacos!
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 1/4 cups water (or as needed)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (or other filling of your choice)
For Frying and Toppings:
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or cotija cheese)
- Salsa, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll be enjoying delicious Tacos Dorados in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and water. Mix them together until you have a smooth dough. If the dough is too dry, you can add a little more water; if it’s sticky, add a bit more masa harina. The goal is to have a dough that holds together well.
2. Shape the Tacos:
Divide the dough into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. This is how you’ll create your tortillas. Using a tortilla press, or a rolling pin if you don’t have one, flatten each ball into a thin disc, approximately 6 inches in diameter.
3. Add the Filling:
Take a tortilla and place a spoonful of cooked shredded chicken (or your preferred filling) right in the center. Then, carefully fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape. Be sure to press the edges firmly to seal the filling inside.
4. Fry the Tacos:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping in a small piece of dough – it should sizzle), gently add your tacos to the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once fried, remove the tacos from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. To serve, top your tacos with shredded lettuce, a drizzle of Mexican crema, crumbled queso fresco, salsa, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Dig in and enjoy your homemade Tacos Dorados!
Can I Use Store-Bought Tortillas Instead?
Yes, while homemade tortillas give the best flavor and texture, you can use store-bought tortillas to simplify preparation. Just warm them in a skillet before adding your filling and folding to ensure they’re pliable and tasty!
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative with fillings! Ground beef, pork, beans, or cheese work great. Just make sure anything you use is already cooked and seasoned beforehand, as the frying time is only to crisp up the taco shell.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to eat. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to crisp them back up!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! For a healthier option, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the folded tacos on a baking sheet. Lightly brush them with oil and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden and crispy.
