Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden tacos filled with tasty ingredients like chicken or beef. They’re often topped with fresh lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a burst of flavor!
There’s something fun about the crunch when you take a bite. Plus, they’re super easy to make at home. I love serving them with a side of guacamole—it’s a party on a plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Shredded Chicken: Either works great! I often use ground turkey as a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian choice, try using black beans or lentils instead for a filling, tasty alternative.
Onion: A small onion enhances flavor but if you’re in a pinch, you could use onion powder or shallots for a similar taste. I’ve found that using red onions adds a mild sweetness.
Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): Cumin gives an earthy flavor. For a twist, try smoked paprika instead. If you like it spicy, add cayenne pepper in addition to chili powder.
Corn Tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas are best for that authentic taste! If corn is unavailable, flour tortillas can work, but they won’t get as crispy. I also enjoy using whole wheat tortillas for added fiber.
Queso Fresco: A crumbly Mexican cheese, but feta or ricotta can substitute if needed. They won’t taste exactly the same, but can still provide a creamy texture!
How Do I Ensure My Tacos Are Crispy on the Outside and Delicious on the Inside?
Getting the perfect crispy taco takes some attention during frying. Start with the oil at the right temperature. If it’s too cold, the tacos will absorb oil and become soggy; if it’s too hot, they may brown too quickly.
- Use a deep skillet and pour in just enough oil to cover half the taco.
- Test oil temperature by dropping in a small piece of tortilla. If it bubbles right away, it’s ready.
- Fry each taco for 2-3 minutes until golden, then flip with tongs. Drain on paper towels afterward to absorb excess oil.
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1-2 jalapeños, sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
- Salsa or hot sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to make from start to finish, including cooking and frying. It’s perfect for a delicious dinner that’s quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by heating a splash of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Now, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its flavor.
2. Cook the Meat:
Add the ground beef or shredded chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through (this should take around 7-10 minutes), or until the chicken is heated through. If there’s any excess fat, drain it, and then set the filling aside.
3. Fry the Tacos:
In a separate pan, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, take a corn tortilla, add a generous scoop of the meat filling, and fold it in half. Press down slightly to keep the filling secure.
4. Fry Until Golden:
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the folded taco in the oil. Fry each taco for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to get rid of extra oil.
5. Assemble and Serve:
Now that all your tacos are fried, it’s time to assemble! Place the tacos on a serving plate, then top each one with shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, and a drizzle of sour cream. If you like a little heat, pop on some sliced jalapeños.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your tasty tacos dorados with lime wedges and your favorite salsa or hot sauce on the side. Dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Pork Instead of Beef or Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or pork can be substituted for ground beef or shredded chicken. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly as turkey may cook faster, and pork should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
How Can I Make Tacos Dorados Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the meat for a filling of sautéed black beans, refried beans, or seasoned vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Add spices like cumin and chili powder to enhance the flavor just as you would with meat.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, it’s best to store the filling and tortillas separately. Reheat the filling in the microwave and crisp the tortillas in a skillet or oven before assembling again.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time! Cook and cool the meat filling, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it before assembling the tacos for quick meal prep!
