Description
Tacos Dorados are deliciously crispy Mexican fried tacos filled with seasoned shredded chicken or beef. This recipe features corn tortillas stuffed with a flavorful meat mixture, fried to golden perfection, and topped with fresh lettuce, cheese, crema, salsa, and cilantro for an authentic and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken or shredded beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)
For the Tacos
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa roja or salsa verde
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Warm the tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they are soft and flexible to prevent cracking when folding.
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken or beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cumin until well combined and seasoned.
- Assemble the tacos: Place about 2 tablespoons of the meat filling onto one half of each tortilla, then fold the tortilla over to form a half-moon shape.
- Heat the oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Fry the tacos: Carefully place the folded tacos into the hot oil. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain excess oil: Transfer the fried tacos to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Top the tacos with shredded lettuce, queso fresco or shredded cheese, crema, salsa, and chopped cilantro for a traditional and flavorful touch.
Notes
- Use toothpicks to secure the folded tacos if they unfold during frying.
- For vegetarian options, substitute meat with potatoes, beans, or cheese fillings.
- Tacos dorados are typically served with sides such as rice, beans, or guacamole.
