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Traditional Tacos Dorados

2022-09-21

By Chef Juan

Mexicna Cuisine

Main Course

3 Easy Ways to Make Crispy Tacos Dorados: Slow Cooker, Instant Pot, and Air Fryer Methods

Slow Cooker Tacos Dorados: Tender Shredded Meat for the Perfect Taco Filling

Use the slow cooker to cook your meat filling (such as shredded beef or chicken) until it’s tender and easy to shred. The low and slow method ensures maximum flavor infusion, making the filling juicy and flavorful for your tacos dorados. Once ready, simply assemble and fry for a crispy finish.

Instant Pot Tacos Dorados: Fast and Flavorful Meat Filling in Minutes

Use the Instant Pot’s "pressure cook" function to quickly cook and tenderize your taco filling. Whether you're using chicken or beef, the Instant Pot can reduce the cooking time significantly. Once cooked, shred the meat, then fill your tortillas and fry them up for a crispy exterior.

Air Fryer Tacos Dorados: Crispy and Golden Tacos Without the Extra Oil

After filling your tortillas, use the air fryer to crisp them to golden perfection. Simply place the assembled tacos in the air fryer basket and set it to "air crisp." This method creates a crispy shell without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier option for tacos dorados.

Tips and Suggestions on Tacos Dorados

Filling

The filling is what gives the taco its flavor, so it's important to choose the right ingredients and seasonings. Chicken is a common filling, but it should be seasoned well to ensure it's not bland. Spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder work well. Try to give this recipe a twist with a traditional marinade Mexican Food Seasoned Marinade Tips for Authentic Flavors.

Shredding the chicken

Shredding chicken can be a time-consuming process, but it's necessary to ensure that the taco is easy to eat. Use two forks to pull the chicken apart into thin shreds.

Frying the tacos

Tacos Dorados are fried, which can be a bit tricky. It's important to make sure the oil is hot enough and that the tacos are fried until they are crispy, but not burnt. Check out some recommendations on frying Celebrating the Best of Batter and Frying in Mexican Cooking.

Presentation

Presentation matters, so be sure to arrange the tacos beautifully on a platter and garnish with cilantro, onions, and lime wedges for added flavor and appeal.

Serve immediately

Once you've made the tacos, it's important to serve them immediately. If you let them sit too long, they'll become soggy and lose their crispiness.

Classic Tacos Dorados Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 corn tortillas
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
  • 1/4 cup salsa (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the shredded cooked chicken, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
  3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and lightly browned.
  4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  5. Heat the corn tortillas in the microwave for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
  6. Fill each tortilla with about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture and roll up tightly.
  7. Heat the remaining vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the rolled tortillas and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  8. Transfer the crispy tortillas to a baking sheet and place in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes.
  9. Serve with optional toppings such as crumbled queso fresco, chopped cilantro and onion, sour cream, and salsa.

Cooking Time

Preparation Time 15 min

Cook Time 30 min

Total time 45 min

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 400
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Protein: 20 g

Variations for Tacos Dorados

Eggplant and Zucchini Tacos

This version is made by sautéing seasoned eggplant and zucchini, then folding them into warm tortillas and topping with fresh salsa and avocado.

Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini Tacos Recipe

Vegan Potato Tacos

This version is made by filling tortillas with crispy roasted potatoes, black beans, and diced tomatoes, topped with avocado and salsa.

Crispy Vegan Potato Tacos (Tacos Dorados de Papas)

Fish tacos

This version is made by seasoning and frying flaky fish, then serving it in warm tortillas topped with cabbage slaw and zesty lime.

I'll never forget the fish tacos I had in Mexico, here's the recipe

Shrimp Tacos

This version is made by sautéing succulent shrimp with spices, then serving them in soft tortillas topped with mango salsa

Tacos Dorados! Cuatro Vientos!

Plantain Tacos

This version is made by frying sweet plantains until golden, then placing them in warm tortillas and topping with avocado and black beans.

Plantain Tacos

Lamb Tacos

This version is made by slow-cooking tender lamb in a rich chipotle tomato sauce, served in crispy corn tortillas with fresh cilantro.

Lamb Tacos

Cochinita Pibil Tacos

This version is made by marinating pork in achiote paste and citrus juices, then braising until tender and serving in warm tortillas.

Cochinita Pibil Tacos

Tacos Dorados Recipe Review

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