Introduction
Taquitos, also known as flautas, are a beloved dish in the United States. They make for a tasty snack, appetizer or even a wholesome meal. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making delicious taquitos, including step-by-step instructions, easy recipes, healthy ingredient swaps, and much more.
The Ultimate Guide to Making Taquitos: A Step-by-Step Tutorial
Let’s start with the basics. There are three main components to making taquitos: the filling, the tortilla, and the frying. Here’s how to make perfect taquitos, step-by-step:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
The filling is perhaps the most important part of a taquito. You can use virtually anything as a filling, from chicken and beef to beans and cheese. Cook your filling first and set it aside to cool down before assembling the taquitos.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
Next, warm up your tortillas. You can use corn or flour tortillas, but corn tortillas are more traditional. You also want to lightly fry the tortillas before filling and rolling them as this helps them become crispy. Brush them lightly with oil, place them on a skillet, and fry them until they’re a bit brown but still pliable. Remove them from heat and set them aside.
Step 3: Fill and Roll the Taquitos
Now comes the fun part – filling and rolling the taquitos. Place a thin line of filling down the center of a tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, securing the seam with a toothpick, and repeat until all the taquitos are rolled.
Step 4: Fry the Taquitos
Add enough oil to a skillet or deep fryer to submerge the taquitos and heat over medium-high. Fry the taquitos in batches for about 2-3 minutes each until they turn golden brown. Remove them from the oil, and drain the excess oil on a paper towel. Finally, carefully remove the toothpick, and you’re ready to serve!
5 Easy Taquito Recipes to Make Tonight
If you’re looking for some delicious recipes to try out, here are five easy taquito recipes to make tonight:
1. Chicken and Cheese Taquitos
A classic recipe that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Use shredded, cooked chicken mixed with refried beans and seasoned with spices such as cumin. Top it off with some shredded cheese inside the taquito and on top once it’s ready to serve.
2. Beef Taquitos
For a heartier option, try beef taquitos. Use cooked, shredded beef mixed with diced onions, jalapenos, and garlic with a bit of taco sauce. Top with some sliced avocado and sour cream for added flavor.
3. Vegetarian Taquitos
If you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a lighter option, consider making vegetarian taquitos. Use black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers mixed with some Mexican spice and cheese to create a filling perfect for this recipe.
4. Pork and Pineapple Taquitos
Want to mix things up? Pork and pineapple make for an incredible blend that can take your taquitos to another level. Use cooked, shredded pork and diced pineapples seasoned with a bit of hoisin sauce and soy sauce for a sweet and savory filling.
5. Seafood Taquitos
For a seafood twist, try using shrimp and crab meat seasoned with lime juice, cilantro, and some chili powder. Top with some avocado and salsa for a zesty flavor.
Healthy Taquitos? It’s Possible with These 3 Simple Ingredient Swaps
While taquitos are delicious, they can also be unhealthy depending on how they’re prepared. You can make your taquitos healthier without sacrificing taste by making these simple ingredient swaps:
1. Use Whole Wheat Tortillas
Instead of using regular corn or flour tortillas, try using whole wheat tortillas which are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins. They also provide a nuttier flavor to your taquitos.
2. Bake Instead of Fry Your Taquitos
While frying your taquitos may add more crisp and crunch, it’s not the healthiest option. Try baking your taquitos instead to eliminate the excess oil from frying them and save on calories.
3. Use Lean Protein
Instead of using fatty meat, choose lean protein like ground turkey, chicken breast or shrimp. This way, you’ll avoid consuming a lot of fat and calories while still getting the taste you enjoy.
Mexican Comfort Food: How Taquitos Became a Beloved Dish in the United States
Taquitos originated in Mexico, and their popularity rapidly spread to the United States over time. Taquitos are traditionally served as a mid-day snack or meal, and they’re perfect for larger gatherings or parties.
Beyond Chicken and Beef: Unique Taquito Fillings You Need to Try
The possibilities are endless when it comes to taquito fillings. Here are some unique taquito filling ideas:
1. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Taquitos
A sweet and savory option that’s also healthy. Use roasted sweet potatoes and black beans mixed with some chili powder and cumin for a hearty vegetarian option.
2. Egg and Chorizo Taquitos
Not just a breakfast dish anymore! Mix cooked scrambled eggs with chorizo and top with some queso fresco and salsa for a delicious taquito option.
3. Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Mix cooked, shredded chicken with some hot sauce and cream cheese for a zesty twist on the classic chicken taquito. Top with blue cheese crumbles and celery for added flavor.
Taquitos, Tacos, and Tostadas: Understanding the Difference Between These Classic Mexican Dishes
Taquitos, tacos, and tostadas are all delicious Mexican dishes, but there are some significant differences between them.
1. Taquitos
Taquitos are made by rolling a filling inside a corn tortilla or flour, then fried for an extra crunch on the outside.
2. Tacos
Tacos are made with a folded corn tortilla, which may be soft or hard, and are usually filled with any combination of meat, cheese, lettuce, sour cream, and salsa.
3. Tostadas
Tostadas are flat, crispy tortillas that are typically topped with beans, meat, vegetables, and condiments like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
A Taquito Bar: The Perfect Party Food
Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to have some fun with friends or family, a taquito bar is always perfect! Here are some ideas for creating a taquito bar:
1. Offer Various Fillings
Choose different taquito filling options, such as chicken, beef, sweet potato and black bean, pork and pineapple, and seafood.
2. Variety of Toppings
Provide a range of toppings and sauces that guests can use to customize their taquitos according to their own preferences. Think shredded cheese, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, diced tomatoes, jalapenos, and more.
3. Create a Decorated Space
Set up a table with decorations that match the Mexican theme, such as cactus, sombrero, or maracas, to create an even more enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Now you know everything there is to know about making delicious taquitos, from the step-by-step tutorial to easy recipes, healthy ingredient swaps, popular fillings and unique flavor combinations. Taquitos are much more than just a snack. They are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with family and friends.
