What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we embark on a culinary adventure to discover the best corn tortilla for crispy tacos, exploring various factors and recommending top-notch brands.
- Cook the tortillas for just a few seconds on each side to prevent them from becoming too crispy or burning.
- Whole wheat tortillas offer a healthier alternative to corn or flour tortillas and can be made crispy using the same methods.
Crispy tacos are a beloved Mexican delicacy that tantalizes taste buds worldwide. But what truly elevates a taco is the perfect corn tortilla, providing the ideal vessel for all the flavorful fillings. In this comprehensive guide, we embark on a culinary adventure to discover the best corn tortilla for crispy tacos, exploring various factors and recommending top-notch brands.
Essential Qualities of a Crispy Taco Tortilla
1. Thickness and Texture
For a crispy taco, the tortilla should be thin enough to become crispy without crumbling. Aim for tortillas that are around 0.06-0.08 inches thick. The texture should be slightly pliable, allowing for easy folding without tearing.
2. Corn Quality
High-quality corn tortillas use non-GMO or organic corn that has been nixtamalized, a traditional process that enhances flavor and nutritional value. Look for tortillas made with 100% corn masa, avoiding those with added flours or starches.
3. Freshness
Freshly made corn tortillas are the best choice for crispy tacos. They have a more vibrant flavor and a tender texture. If fresh tortillas are unavailable, opt for tortillas that have been stored in the refrigerator or freezer and thawed before use.
Top Brands for Crispy Taco Tortillas
1. La Tortillería
La Tortillería is renowned for its authentic Mexican tortillas made with organic, non-GMO corn. Their tortillas are thin, pliable, and have a slightly sweet corn flavor that pairs perfectly with crispy tacos.
2. Mission Foods
Mission Foods offers a wide range of corn tortillas, including their “Taco Fiesta” line specifically designed for crispy tacos. These tortillas are made with whole grain corn and have a slightly thicker texture that holds up well to frying or grilling.
3. Guerrero Tortillas
Guerrero Tortillas are a popular choice for Mexican restaurants and grocery stores. Their corn tortillas are made with 100% corn masa and have a slightly chewy texture that becomes crispy when cooked.
Cooking Methods for Crispy Tacos
1. Frying
Frying is the traditional method for making crispy tacos. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 375-400°F. Fry the tortillas for a few seconds on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
2. Grilling
Grilling is a healthier alternative to frying. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Grill the tortillas for 1-2 minutes per side until they are charred and crispy.
3. Baking
Baking is the easiest method but results in slightly less crispy tacos. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the tortillas on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes per side until they are crispy.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Tacos
- Use fresh or thawed corn tortillas for the best results.
- Heat the oil or grill to the correct temperature before cooking the tortillas.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or grill when frying or grilling tortillas.
- Cook the tortillas for just a few seconds on each side to prevent them from becoming too crispy or burning.
- Fill the crispy tacos immediately after cooking to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Alternatives to Corn Tortillas
While corn tortillas are the traditional choice for crispy tacos, there are several alternatives available:
- Flour tortillas: Flour tortillas are thicker and softer than corn tortillas, but they can still be made crispy by frying or grilling them.
- Whole wheat tortillas: Whole wheat tortillas offer a healthier alternative to corn or flour tortillas and can be made crispy using the same methods.
- Cassava tortillas: Cassava tortillas are a gluten-free option that can be made crispy by frying or baking them.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How do I prevent my taco tortillas from becoming soggy?
A: Fill the tortillas immediately after cooking and serve them on a warm plate. Avoid overfilling the tortillas, as this can make them soggy.
Q: What is the best oil to use for frying taco tortillas?
A: Use a high smoke point oil such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil.
Q: Can I make crispy tacos with store-bought tortillas?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought corn tortillas to make crispy tacos. However, fresh or thawed tortillas will yield better results.
