Tacos Dorados are fried tacos filled with tasty meat, cheese, or beans. They have a crispy shell and a warm, flavorful filling that makes every bite exciting!
These tacos are perfect for a fun meal with family or friends. I love topping mine with fresh salsa and guacamole—it’s a fiesta on a plate! 🌮🎉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas are key for this recipe as they’re sturdy yet pliable. If you can’t find them, you can use flour tortillas. However, they may not hold the filling as well when fried.
Chicken or Beef: I love using shredded chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking to use something different, shredded pork or even beans for a vegetarian version work great too.
Queso Fresco: This cheese adds a nice crumbliness and flavor. If unavailable, feta cheese or cotija can be good substitutes. You’ll still get that tasty finish!
Vegetable Oil: For frying, vegetable oil works well, but you could also use canola or even avocado oil for a healthier choice.
Salsa: Use your favorite salsa for a pop of flavor! If you want a homemade touch, you can easily whip up a quick salsa with canned tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
How Do I Fry Tacos Without Making a Mess?
Frying tacos can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here’s how to do it with minimal mess:
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. This indicates it’s hot enough.
- Use a slotted spoon or tongs to gently place the tacos in the oil. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches.
- Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
- After frying, let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
These tips should help you keep your kitchen clean and your tacos crispy!
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded) or beef (shredded)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa (red or green)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
For Frying:
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on preparation and around 20 minutes cooking your delicious tacos until they’re golden and crispy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by shredding your cooked chicken or beef if you haven’t already. Place it in a bowl and sprinkle with salt to taste. Mix everything well and set it aside for a moment while you prepare the tortillas.
2. Fill the Tortillas:
Take a corn tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the meat filling in the center of the tortilla. Carefully fold the tortilla in half to shape it like a taco. If you need to, use toothpicks to hold the edges together and keep the filling inside.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in the vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to fry the tacos but not smoking! To test if it’s ready, you can drop a small piece of tortilla in, and if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
4. Fry the Tacos:
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the filled tortillas to the skillet a few at a time. Fry each taco for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are crispy. Once they’re done, remove the tacos from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! On a serving plate, arrange your crispy tacos dorados. Top each taco generously with shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, a dollop of sour cream, and your choice of salsa. You can be as creative as you like!
6. Garnish:
To finish off, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the top of the tacos for an extra burst of flavor and color. It makes them look amazing too!
7. Serve:
Serve your Tacos Dorados immediately while they’re hot and crispy. Enjoy them with extra salsa on the side for dipping. These make for a delightful meal or snack!
Enjoy your delicious Tacos Dorados with a refreshing drink!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
While corn tortillas are traditional for Tacos Dorados, you can use flour tortillas if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different, and you’ll want to fry them until they’re golden and crispy as well.
How Can I Make These Tacos Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken or beef with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, or use black beans or lentils for a protein-packed option. Season them with your favorite spices to enhance the flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy. You can also pop them in the oven for a few minutes to refresh their crunch!
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken or beef filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to fully cool it before placing it in a sealed container. When you’re ready to make the tacos, just warm it up before filling the tortillas!
