Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden treats that you won’t be able to resist! They are filled with savory meat, and each bite gives you a perfect crunch.
These tacos are so fun to make and eat! I love to pile on the toppings like fresh avocado and salsa. It’s a party on your plate! 🌮🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Masa Harina: This corn flour is essential for making the dough for your tacos. If you’re unable to find masa harina, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture and flavor won’t be the same. Look for masa harina at grocery stores or in Latin markets—it’s worth it!
Cooked Chicken (or Beef): You can use any meat you have on hand. I love using leftover rotisserie chicken for its amazing flavor and tenderness. If you’re vegetarian, black beans or sautéed vegetables make a great alternative.
Sour Cream: While sour cream adds a nice creaminess, you can swap it for Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a healthier option. It offers a similar texture with added protein.
Cheese: Queso fresco and cotija add a wonderful salty bite, but you can use feta or even grated cheese blends if those aren’t available. Don’t hesitate to mix and match!
How Do I Get Crispy Tortillas When Frying?
Frying the tortillas can seem tricky, but a few tips will help you achieve that perfect crispiness:
- Use enough oil: Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F) to fry the tortillas. If unsure, drop a small piece of dough in; it should sizzle immediately.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry one or two tortillas at a time, ensuring they have space to crisp up without steaming.
- Monitor the time: Fry each tortilla for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
- Drain properly: After frying, lay them on paper towels to soak up excess oil, keeping them crisp for longer.
How to Make Tacos Dorados?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For The Filling:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or beef)
For Frying and Toppings:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or cotija cheese)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salsa (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 15 minutes for cooking. Just gather your ingredients, mix, fry, and assemble! You’ll have delicious Tacos Dorados ready in about 45 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make The Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the masa harina, warm water, and salt. Mix it all together until you form a smooth dough. Let this dough rest for about 15 minutes to become easier to work with.
2. Shape The Tortillas:
After resting, divide the dough into small balls – think the size of a golf ball. Using a tortilla press or a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a thin circle. This will be your tortilla!
3. Fry The Tortillas:
In a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add each tortilla one at a time, frying them until they turn a light golden color and are crispy—about 2-3 minutes per side. When they’re ready, drain them on paper towels to get rid of extra oil.
4. Assemble The Tacos:
Once all the tortillas are fried, it’s time to fill them! Take each tortilla and fill it with a portion of the shredded chicken (or beef). Fold them in half to create that classic taco shape.
5. Top and Serve:
Now for the fun part! Top each taco with some shredded lettuce, a drizzle of sour cream, crumbled queso fresco, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve with your favorite salsa on the side, and enjoy your delicious Tacos Dorados!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While chicken and beef are great choices, you can also use cooked pork, turkey, or even sautéed veggies for a vegetarian option. Just ensure the meat is cooked and shredded before filling the tacos!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until they’re crispy again, or warm them in the oven to help retain their crunchiness.
What Can I Use Instead of Masa Harina?
If you don’t have masa harina, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, but the flavor and texture will differ. For a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free flour blend, noting that you may need to adjust the liquid ratio slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
Can I Prepare the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to use it, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
