Tortilla chips are crunchy treats made from corn tortillas. They are super easy to make at home, and they are perfect for snacking or dipping in salsa!
These chips are so addictive that it’s hard to stop at just one! I love them with guacamole, and I may or may not keep a secret stash just for myself. 🤫
Making tortilla chips is a breeze! Just cut some tortillas, bake or fry them until crispy, and enjoy. They’re great for parties or a cozy movie night at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are the foundation of your chips! You can choose yellow for a slightly sweet flavor or white for a more neutral taste. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to pick brands that are certified gluten-free. As a personal note, I love using organic tortillas for an even better taste.
Vegetable Oil: This is crucial for frying. Any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil will work well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can try baking the chips instead of frying them, although it won’t have that same crispy texture.
Kosher Salt: This adds the perfect touch of flavor. If you want to experiment, try flavored salts like garlic or lime salt for an extra kick. It’s also great to adjust the salt based on personal preference—some like it salty, others don’t!
How Can I Fry Tortilla Chips Without Burning Them?
Frying tortilla chips takes some care, but it’s pretty straightforward! The key is to control the oil temperature and the number of tortilla pieces at a time. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Heat the oil gradually over medium-high heat. A good test is to drop in a small piece of tortilla; if it sizzles up quickly, the oil is ready.
- Fry in small batches. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chips instead of crispy ones.
- Watch the color closely. When the chips turn golden, they’re almost done. Flip them to get an even crisp.
- After frying, use a slotted spoon to remove the chips, letting the excess oil drain on paper towels.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly crispy tortilla chips every time!
How to Make Crispy Homemade Tortilla Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 corn tortillas (yellow or white)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or other neutral oil) for frying
- 1 tsp kosher salt, or to taste
- Optional: lime wedge for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes to prep and fry your tortilla chips. You’ll have delicious, crunchy chips ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cut the Tortillas:
Begin by stacking all six corn tortillas on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut each tortilla into 6 triangles. This means you’ll cut them in half, and then cut each half into thirds to form the chip shapes.
2. Heat the Oil:
Next, pour the vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan. Place it over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping in one triangle of tortilla; if it sizzles, you’re ready to go!
3. Fry the Chips:
Carefully add the cut tortilla pieces to the hot oil in batches—don’t crowd the pan! Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, or until the chips turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through cooking, so they crisp up evenly.
4. Drain Excess Oil:
Once the chips are crispy, remove them from the oil using the slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any extra oil and keep the chips nice and crunchy!
5. Season with Salt:
While the chips are still warm, sprinkle them with kosher salt to taste. Make sure to do this while they are hot for maximum flavor!
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the chips cool completely on the plate. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Once they’re ready, serve them alongside your favorite salsa, guacamole, or even a squeeze of fresh lime for added zest.
Enjoy your homemade crispy tortilla chips! They’re perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings.
Can I Bake Tortilla Chips Instead of Frying Them?
Absolutely! To bake them, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the tortilla triangles on a baking sheet in a single layer, spray or brush them lightly with oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
What Oil Can I Use for Frying?
Any neutral oil works well for frying tortilla chips, including vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. Avoid using oils with strong flavors, like olive oil, as they can alter the taste of your chips.
How Do I Store Leftover Tortilla Chips?
Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them extra crispy, you might also consider placing a paper towel inside the container to absorb moisture.
Can I Season Tortilla Chips Beyond Just Salt?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Try adding garlic powder, chili powder, or even cheese powder for a unique flavor. Just sprinkle the seasonings on while the chips are still warm to help them stick!
