These crispy tortilla chips are super easy to make and perfect for snacking! Just slice corn tortillas and bake or fry until golden and crunchy.
They’re great for dipping in salsa or guacamole, but I often munch on them plain; they’re that good! 🥳 You really can’t go wrong with a nice crunchy chip!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas are best for that authentic flavor and crunch. If you can’t find them, flour tortillas work too but will give a softer chip.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil works great! I often use canola or sunflower oil. If you want to make it healthier, try using olive oil for a different flavor.
Salt: Adjust the salt according to your taste. If you’re watching your sodium, try using sea salt or even salt alternatives.
Chili Powder or Smoked Paprika: These are optional but can elevate the flavor. If you want a milder chip, skip these. For some heat, cayenne pepper is a great alternative!
How Do I Ensure My Tortilla Chips Are Perfectly Crisp?
The key to crispy tortilla chips is not overcrowding them. Whether baking or frying, make sure they are in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and prevents sogginess.
- For baking, keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- If frying, work in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Immediately sprinkle with salt after cooking while they’re still hot—this helps the salt stick better!
Homemade Tortilla Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 corn tortillas
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and 10-15 minutes for cooking, depending on your method (baking or frying). So, in total, allow about 20-25 minutes to enjoy your crispy tortilla chips!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven or Heat the Oil:
If you’re baking your chips, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you prefer frying, heat your vegetable oil in a deep pan until it reaches 350°F (175°C). This way, you’re all set to go!
2. Cut the Tortillas:
Take your stack of corn tortillas and carefully cut them into triangles—usually, four or six wedges per tortilla works well. Keep them steady so you get nice, even pieces!
3. Coat the Tortilla Wedges:
In a large bowl, toss the tortilla wedges with the vegetable oil until each piece is lightly-coated. Make sure every chip gets some oil for that crispy texture!
4. Bake or Prepare for Frying:
If baking, spread the tortilla pieces out in a single layer on a baking sheet. If frying, get your hot oil ready for your tortilla wedges.
5. Cooking the Chips:
For baking, pop them in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway to ensure they crisp up evenly. For frying, carefully drop the wedges into the hot oil in small batches and fry until golden and crisp—about 2 minutes each batch. Remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
6. Season the Chips:
Right after they come out of the oven or oil, sprinkle the chips with salt, and if you like, add a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for an extra flavor punch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let your chips cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite salsa, guacamole, or just enjoy them plain. They’re sure to be a hit!
These homemade tortilla chips are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for snacking or as a crunchy base for nachos. Enjoy every crunchy bite! 🎉
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but keep in mind they’ll yield a softer chip. Corn tortillas are recommended for that classic crispy texture!
How Can I Store Leftover Chips?
Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, avoid refrigerating them.
Can I Make These Chips Spicy?
Absolutely! You can add cayenne pepper or a spice blend to the oil before coating the tortillas, or sprinkle extra chili powder on the chips right after they cook for an added kick.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Chips?
To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until they’re crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it may make them soggy.