Introduction
Taquitos are a delicious Mexican dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or a main course. Traditionally, they are deep-fried, which can make them quite greasy. However, with the invention of air fryers, you can now enjoy crispy and flavorful taquitos without the excess oil. In this article, we will guide you on how to cook taquitos in an air fryer, ensuring a healthier and convenient cooking process.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
– 1 pound of cooked and shredded chicken or beef
– 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– 1/2 cup of diced onions
– 1/2 cup of diced bell peppers
– 2 cloves of minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon of chili powder
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Taquitos:
– 10-12 small tortillas (corn or flour)
– Cooking spray or olive oil
– Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or hot sauce
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a skillet, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until they become translucent. Add the cooked and shredded chicken or beef, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors and cook for a few more minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool down.
2. Assemble the Taquitos:
Take a tortilla and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top. Roll the tortilla tightly, making sure the filling is secure inside. Repeat this process for all the tortillas.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat it for a few minutes. This will ensure that the taquitos cook evenly and become crispy.
4. Air Fry the Taquitos:
Lightly coat the taquitos with cooking spray or brush them with olive oil. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they turn golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the taquitos are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or hot sauce. Enjoy your crispy and delicious taquitos!
Tips
– Experiment with different fillings such as cheese and jalapeños, shrimp, or vegetarian options like beans and cheese.
– Make sure to preheat the air fryer to achieve the best results.
– Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation for even cooking.
Conclusion
Cooking taquitos in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep-frying. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful taquitos without the excess oil. Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to create your own unique taquito recipe. So, grab your air fryer and start cooking these delicious treats today!