Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden-brown tacos filled with your favorite goodies like chicken or beef. They’re like little flavor-filled delights that make every bite exciting!
These crunchy tacos are a hit at my house. I love loading them with salsa and guacamole—so good! Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own. 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are crucial for Tacos Dorados. They should be fresh for the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas, but they won’t have the same crispiness and taste.
Cooked Shredded Chicken or Beef: Use whatever protein you like! Rotisserie chicken is a quick option, or leftover beef works great too. Vegetarian? Try black beans or shredded veggies for a tasty twist.
Vegetable Oil: This is essential for frying. While vegetable oil is neutral, you could substitute with canola or sunflower oil. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use avocado oil, though it may change the flavor slightly.
Queso Fresco: This crumbly cheese adds a nice flavor and texture. If unavailable, feta cheese makes a good substitute. You can also try cotija if you want something more traditional.
How to Fry Tacos for the Perfect Crisp?
Frying is the key step to getting that crunchy shell in Tacos Dorados. To achieve the best results, pay attention to oil temperature and frying time.
- Heat your vegetable oil over medium heat until it shimmers but isn’t smoking. This ensures a good fry.
- Gently fold your filled tortilla and carefully place it into the oil to avoid splattering.
- Fry each taco for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t rush it, or you may end up with soggy tacos!
- Use a slotted spoon to lift them out and let them drain on paper towels. This prevents them from getting greasy.
How to Make Tacos Dorados?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken or beef
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa (red or green, as preferred)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 25-30 minutes to prepare these tasty Tacos Dorados. This includes about 10 minutes to cook and prepare the ingredients, and around 15-20 minutes to fry the tacos. Then you’re ready to dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by pouring the vegetable oil into a large skillet. Turn the heat to medium and let the oil heat up. You want it nice and hot but be careful not to overheat it!
2. Fill the Tortillas:
Take a corn tortilla and place about 2 tablespoons of shredded chicken or beef in the middle. Carefully fold the tortilla in half to make a taco. Press it gently so it stays closed. Repeat this with the rest of the tortillas until you have them all filled.
3. Fry the Tacos:
Once the oil is hot, carefully place one folded taco into the skillet. Fry it for about 3-4 minutes or until it turns golden brown and crispy. Gently flip it to the other side and fry for another 3-4 minutes. Continue this process with the remaining tacos, frying them in batches if needed. Keep an eye on them as they cook!
4. Drain Excess Oil:
After frying, use a slotted spoon to remove the tacos from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil. This helps keep them crispy!
5. Assemble and Serve:
To serve the Tacos Dorados, place them on a plate. Top each taco with shredded lettuce and sprinkle crumbled queso fresco over them. Drizzle some sour cream on top and add your favorite salsa. Finish by garnishing with chopped cilantro for an extra touch!
6. Enjoy!
Your Tacos Dorados are ready to be enjoyed warm! Feel free to serve extra salsa on the side for dipping. Dive in and savor each crunchy bite!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
Absolutely! While traditional Tacos Dorados are made with corn tortillas, using flour tortillas is a delicious alternative. Just be mindful that they may not get as crispy, so you might want to fry them for slightly less time.
What Can I Substitute for Queso Fresco?
If you can’t find queso fresco, crumbled feta cheese works beautifully as a substitute. You can also use cotija cheese for a saltier flavor. Just keep in mind that feta will add a tangy taste.
How to Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the tacos on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. Avoid the microwave to keep them from getting soggy.
Can I Make These Tacos Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply substitute the meat with either sautéed beans, mushrooms, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Make sure to season them well to enhance the flavor before filling the tortillas.
