Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden delight! Made with soft tortillas filled with tasty ingredients like potatoes or meat, they are then fried to perfection. They’re simply awesome!
Whenever I make them, I can’t resist adding all my favorite toppings, like salsa and guacamole. Trust me, it’s a taco party on your plate! 🌮✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are essential for tacos dorados. If you can’t find corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas, but the texture will change a bit. I love that corn tortillas bring a nice crunch when fried!
Cooked and Shredded Chicken or Beef: Chicken is my favorite for these tacos, but shredded beef works well too. If you need a vegetarian option, try using beans or jackfruit instead!
Sour Cream: This adds a creamy element. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a good substitute. You can even use avocado crema for an extra twist.
Queso Fresco or Cotija Cheese: These cheeses give a fresh and salty finish. If you can’t find them, feta cheese makes a good stand-in.
Salsa: The choice between red or green salsa really depends on your heat preference! If you want to make your own, a quick mix of tomatoes, onion, and cilantro gives a great flavor.
How Do You Fry Tortillas Perfectly for Tacos?
Frying tortillas might sound tricky, but it’s simple with a little care! The goal is to make them soft first, then crispy when you fold and fry. Here’s how:
- Warm the tortillas in a little oil to soften them without getting them too crispy. About 30 seconds on each side should do!
- Fold them while they’re warm, filling them with your choice of meat.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the tacos—test it by dropping a little piece of tortilla in; it should sizzle right away.
- Fry until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps them fry evenly.
These tips will give you perfectly crispy tacos dorados every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Tacos Dorados?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or beef)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- ½ cup salsa (red or green, as per preference)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take about 30 minutes of total time. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the tortillas and fillings, and then about 20 minutes frying and arranging your delicious tacos dorados.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tortillas:
Start by heating a small amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Lightly fry each corn tortilla one at a time until they are soft and pliable, taking about 15-30 seconds per tortilla. Once done, remove them from the pan and place on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. This will help maintain their softness for folding.
2. Fill the Tacos:
While the tortillas are still warm, take a portion of the cooked and shredded chicken (or beef) and place it in the center of each tortilla. Fold each tortilla in half to create a taco shape. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed.
3. Fry the Tacos:
In a separate frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat to submerge the tacos. Test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of tortilla into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Carefully add the folded tacos to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Top and Serve:
Now it’s time to plate your tacos dorados! Arrange the crispy tacos on a serving plate. Top each one with shredded lettuce, a drizzle of sour cream, crumbled cheese, salsa, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. If you like, serve some additional salsa on the side for dipping.
5. Enjoy Your Creation!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious, crispy tacos dorados while they’re fresh and warm. Perfect for a meal or a tasty snack!
Can I Use Store-Bought Tortillas?
Absolutely! Store-bought corn tortillas are a convenient substitute. Just make sure to warm them in a dry skillet or microwave before filling to prevent them from cracking when folding.
How Can I Make These Tacos Healthier?
To lighten up the tacos, try baking instead of frying. Brush the filled tacos with a little olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until crispy. This way, you retain the crunch without the extra oil!
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Both will give you a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to sour cream.
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, avoid stacking them as they may become soggy. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispiness before serving.
