Frying Taquitos: Deep Fryer Method Explored

Taquitos, or little tacos, are a delicious snack that can be prepared using a variety of cooking methods. While baking, pan-frying, and deep frying are all common preparations, deep frying is a popular choice due to the irresistible crispness it gives the taquitos. To deep fry taquitos successfully, there are several important steps to follow. Firstly, use an oil with a high smoke point such as peanut or corn oil, and heat it to around 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit in a deep pan or deep fryer. Add the taquitos gently, cooking only a few at a time to avoid overcrowding, and cook for 2-4 minutes or until golden brown. Use tongs or toothpicks to prevent the taquitos from unrolling during the cooking process, and be sure to remove any toothpicks before serving. Finally, drain the excess oil by placing the cooked taquitos on paper towels. By following these steps, you can enjoy perfectly crispy and golden deep-fried taquitos!

Oil temperature for frying taquitos

Taquitos are a delicious snack, but getting the right oil temperature is key to achieving that crispy exterior without a greasy, oil-soaked interior.

Oil Temperature

The ideal temperature for frying taquitos is 375°F. This temperature will ensure that the taquitos cook through without burning the exterior. It is important to heat the oil to the correct temperature before adding the taquitos. Adding taquitos to oil that is not hot enough will result in greasy, soggy taquitos.

Oil Type

Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut or corn oil. Oils with a high smoke point can withstand higher temperatures without smoking and imparting an unpleasant flavour to the food. Do not use oils with a low smoke point, such as olive oil, as these will burn at the required temperature for taquitos.

Frying Method

When the oil has reached the correct temperature, gently add the taquitos to the pan using tongs to avoid splashing. Fry the taquitos in small batches of 2-4 at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan and lowering the oil temperature. The taquitos will cook in 2-4 minutes and should be removed from the oil when they are golden brown.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your filling is dry and not too moist to prevent it from leaking out during frying.
• Do not overstuff the taquitos as this will also cause them to unroll and leak during frying.
• Use toothpicks to secure the taquitos and prevent them from unrolling.
• Make sure your tortillas are soft and pliable before filling and frying to prevent cracking.
• Use enough oil to completely submerge the taquitos during cooking.
• Drain the fried taquitos on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Preventing taquitos from unrolling

Taquitos are a delicious snack, but they can be a little tricky to make. The most challenging part is keeping them from unrolling during the deep-frying process. Here are some tips to prevent that from happening:

Use Toothpicks

The most common way to prevent taquitos from unrolling is to use toothpicks to hold them together. It is best to use wooden toothpicks, as plastic ones will melt in the hot oil. Insert two toothpicks into each taquito, piercing them all the way through near the seam. Make sure to remove the toothpicks immediately after cooking.

Warm the Tortillas First

Corn tortillas tend to crack when rolled, so it is important to soften them before filling and rolling. You can do this by steaming, toasting on a griddle, or dredging in hot oil. Another method is to wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel, tortilla warmer, or light kitchen towel and heat them in the microwave for about a minute to create steam. This will help keep them from drying out and make them more pliable.

Don't Overfill the Taquitos

If you put too much filling in your taquitos, it may spill out during frying, causing excess oil to get inside and making them more likely to unroll. Spread about 1 tablespoon of filling about 1 inch from the edge of the tortilla on no more than one-third of the surface. This will help ensure the taquitos stay closed while frying.

Seal the Edges with Water or Egg White

Before rolling your taquitos, brush a small amount of water or beaten egg white on the edges of the tortilla. This will help seal the tortilla to itself and prevent it from unrolling during frying. If using egg whites, let the taquitos sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour to give the egg white a chance to bind with the tortilla.

Fry Seam Side Down

When placing your taquitos in the hot oil, make sure the seam side is facing down. This will help the tortilla stick to itself and prevent it from unrolling. Fry this side first, and once it is crispy, you should have no problem turning them and finishing the other side.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your taquitos stay rolled up tight during the deep-frying process, resulting in delicious, crispy treats!

Tortilla preparation

Once your tortillas are soft and pliable, you can start filling them. Place your filling—around 1 to 2 tablespoons—in a line along the tortilla, about 1 inch from the edge, and roll the tortilla tightly. You can use toothpicks to secure the tortilla, but be sure to remove them before serving.

After your taquitos are rolled, you can start frying. Heat 2 to 3 inches of oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350-375°F. You can use peanut, corn, canola, or vegetable oil, but avoid oils with a strong flavour like olive oil. Once the oil is hot, gently place 2 to 4 taquitos into the oil using tongs and fry for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove the taquitos from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain the excess oil.

And that's it! Your taquitos are now ready to be enjoyed with your choice of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.

Filling preparation

Taquitos are "little tacos", made by wrapping corn tortillas around a filling and cooking until crispy. The filling is key to the success of your taquitos, as it needs to be dry to avoid the taquito unravelling during the deep-frying process.

Meat fillings are popular, with shredded chicken, beef, or pork being common choices. If you are using meat, ensure it is tender. Tough cuts of meat should be braised until they fall apart. You can also use ground meat. If you are using shredded meat, pat it dry with paper towels to remove moisture.

Vegetarian options include beans, which should be drained and mashed with a fork. You can also use meatless crumbles.

For flavour, add southwestern seasonings such as cilantro, cumin, garlic, or onion powder. You can also add vegetables such as onions, shallots, sweet peppers, hot peppers, or scallions, but ensure they are cooked first.

Cheese is another popular filling. You can use cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.

When preparing your filling, ensure you don't overfill the taquito, as this can cause it to unravel during frying. Aim for about 1 tablespoon of filling per taquito.

Sauces and dips

Taquitos are delicious on their own, but they're even better when served with a tasty dip or sauce. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Salsa

Salsa is a classic choice for taquitos and can range from mild and citric varieties like avocado salsa to hotter styles such as habanero salsa or ghost pepper salsa. You can also make a traditional salsa with red tomato salsa or tomatillo-based green salsa verde.

Guacamole

If you like a kick to your taquitos, guacamole is a great option. It's creamy and cool, and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients: avocado, cilantro, onions, jalapenos, tomato, garlic, lime juice, and salt. You can also add your own twist with additions like corn or a pinch of spice.

Sour cream

Sour cream is a classic taquito dipping sauce and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Try it with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, dolloped directly onto the taquitos, or whisked into guacamole for added tanginess. You can also make a sour cream and salsa dip by mixing sour cream with chunky salsa, or add spices like chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cumin for a spicy kick.

Chipotle sauce

For a unique flavour, try making a chipotle sauce by mixing mayonnaise, chopped chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste, and serve with warm taquitos.

Cilantro lime sauce

This creamy and tangy sauce is perfect for those craving a kick of Mexican flavour. Blend cilantro, garlic cloves, jalapenos, limes, mayonnaise, and white wine vinegar together in a food processor until smooth. Serve as a dip or spread it over your taquitos.

Ranch dressing

Ranch dressing is a popular variation on classic taquito dipping sauces, especially with fish or shrimp taquitos. To make your own, simply whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, white vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, freshly chopped dill, and a pinch of salt. Refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving.

Queso blanco

Queso blanco, or white cheese dip, is a creamy and luxurious accompaniment to taquitos. While it's traditionally made with Velveeta processed cheese, you can also make a vegan version using nutritional yeast and unsweetened plain plant-based milk.

Red enchilada sauce

This spicy sauce gives your taquitos a delicious Southwestern kick. Sauté diced onions and garlic in oil, then add chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir in vegetable or chicken stock and tomato paste, bring to a simmer, and add freshly chopped cilantro. Let the sauce reduce until thickened, then bake your taquitos before serving.

Tomatillo salsa verde

Tomatillo salsa verde, also known as Mexican Green Sauce, is a tangy and flavorful condiment that pairs well with taquitos. Blend tomatillos, jalapenos, onions, garlic, and cilantro together until smooth, then simmer until thickened. Serve as a dip for taquitos, chips, or with tacos or burritos.

Jalapeno cream sauce

This creamy and spicy jalapeno sauce is the perfect tangy topping for your taquitos. Simply combine sour cream, diced jalapeno, minced garlic, lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve over warm taquitos or as a dip.

Frequently asked questions