Introduction
Tacos dorados, also known as flautas, are a popular Mexican dish loved for their crispy texture and flavorful fillings. Traditionally, they are deep-fried, which can make them high in oil and calories. However, with the advent of air fryers, you can now enjoy these golden delights with a healthier twist. In this article, we will explore how to make delicious tacos dorados in the air fryer, providing you with a guilt-free and tasty option for your next Mexican feast.
What is an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it. It uses little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying. The air fryer’s technology allows you to achieve the same crispy and golden texture as deep-frying, but with significantly less fat and calories.
Ingredients
To make tacos dorados in the air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
For the filling:
- 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken or beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the tacos:
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
Preparation
1. In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. Add the shredded chicken or beef to the pan, along with the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until the flavors blend together.
3. Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave or on a griddle, so they become soft and pliable.
4. Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto each tortilla, and roll them tightly to form the flautas.
5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
6. Brush the rolled tortillas with a little vegetable oil and place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other.
7. Cook the tacos dorados in the air fryer for about 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy.
8. Once cooked, remove the flautas from the air fryer and sprinkle them with a pinch of salt.
Serving and Garnishing
Tacos dorados are traditionally served with a variety of toppings and garnishes. Some popular options include:
- Salsa verde or salsa roja
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped tomatoes
- Crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- Fresh cilantro
Feel free to choose your favorite toppings and garnishes to enhance the flavor and presentation of your tacos dorados.
Conclusion
Tacos dorados en la air fryer offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried flautas, without compromising on taste and texture. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy these delicious Mexican delights with significantly less oil and calories. So, grab your air fryer, follow the easy steps outlined in this article, and treat yourself to a plate of crispy and mouthwatering tacos dorados.