Air Fryer Magic: Making Perfect Crispitos

Crispitos are a Tex-Mex dish consisting of seasoned ground beef and cheese rolled up in a tortilla and fried. They can be made in an air fryer for a healthier alternative to frying, although some say this method doesn't pack the same flavour. To make crispitos in an air fryer, first brown the ground beef and add taco seasoning. Next, add a glue like queso sauce to the tortilla, then the beef and cheese, and roll up the tortilla. Spray the crispitos with cooking spray and cook in the air fryer for 10 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Choosing the right ingredients

Tortillas

The type of tortilla you choose will impact the overall taste and texture of your crispitos. For a more traditional approach, opt for corn tortillas, which are commonly used in Tex-Mex cuisine. If you prefer a flour-based option, fajita-sized flour tortillas are a great choice and are easier to roll without tearing. Ensure you have enough tortillas for the number of servings you plan to make.

Meat

The star ingredient of crispitos is typically seasoned ground beef. Look for ground beef with a good fat content to keep it juicy and flavourful. You can also experiment with other ground meats like chicken or turkey if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, try seasoned and cooked black beans or tofu.

Seasonings and Spices

The right combination of seasonings and spices will elevate the flavour of your crispitos. Taco seasoning is a must-have, and you can either purchase a pre-made packet or make your own blend with spices like smoked paprika, onion powder, Mexican oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Don't be afraid to adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.

Cheese

Cheese adds a delicious creamy texture and savoury flavour to your crispitos. Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but you can also use a Mexican blend or shredded cheddar for a more authentic Tex-Mex feel. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your favourite.

Toppings and Sides

While crispitos are tasty on their own, choosing the right toppings and sides can take them to the next level. Consider serving them with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or salsa con queso for dipping. Fresh toppings like chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, or jalapenos can also add a burst of flavour and texture.

Cooking Spray or Oil

When preparing your crispitos for the air fryer, it's essential to use a cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. Avocado oil spray is an excellent choice due to its high smoke point, or you can brush the crispitos with olive oil or another cooking oil of your choice.

Preparing the filling

Cooking the Ground Beef

Start by placing a skillet on medium heat and adding a tablespoon of oil to it. You can use a cooking spray or a healthy oil of your choice. Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and chopped onions. Cook and stir this mixture for about 1 to 2 minutes to develop flavors. Next, add the ground beef and taco seasoning. Continue cooking this mixture until the beef is browned and cooked through, which should take around 5 minutes. Be sure to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess liquid from the skillet.

Assembling the Tortillas

Now it's time to assemble the tortillas. Spread a teaspoon of queso sauce or salsa con queso onto each tortilla. This will act as a "glue" to hold the filling in place. Add about 1/4 cup of the cooked ground beef to the center of each tortilla. Top the beef with shredded cheese, using a variety such as cheddar or a Mexican blend. You can also add other toppings like chopped fresh tomatoes, cilantro, or green onions, if desired.

Rolling the Tortillas

Once the tortillas are filled, carefully roll them up tightly. You can secure the roll with a toothpick to prevent it from unravelling. Repeat this process until you've filled and rolled all your tortillas.

Air Frying the Crispitos

After preparing the filling and assembling the tortillas, it's time to air fry your crispitos. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the rolled-up tortillas into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not stacked. Air fry for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown. If you're making a larger batch, you may need to cook them in multiple batches to ensure even cooking.

Your crispitos are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them with your favorite toppings or dips, such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or queso.

Rolling the tortillas

Rolling tortillas is an essential step in making Crispitos, a delicious Tex-Mex dish. Here is a detailed guide to achieving the perfect roll:

Before you begin rolling, gather your tortillas and filling. For Crispitos, you will typically use fajita-sized flour tortillas. It is important that your tortillas are soft and pliable, so they don't crack or break during the rolling process. If your tortillas are dry, you can try warming them slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them more flexible.

Now, it's time to add the filling. Place a couple of spoonfuls of your chosen filling (such as seasoned ground beef or chicken) in the centre of each tortilla. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling difficult and cause the filling to spill out. Spread the filling evenly across the centre of the tortilla, leaving a gap of about 2 inches at the top and bottom.

Once the filling is in place, it's time to start rolling. Begin by folding the side of the tortilla closest to you over the filling, tucking it slightly under the filling to ensure a tight roll. Then, gently but firmly roll the tortilla away from you, keeping it as tight as possible. Try to avoid trapping air inside the roll, as this can cause it to unravel during cooking. Continue rolling until you have a compact cylinder.

To secure the roll, you can use a toothpick by gently pushing it through the seam of the tortilla. This will help keep the Crispito closed during cooking and prevent the filling from leaking out. Alternatively, you can try moistening the edge of the tortilla with a little water to create a seal.

Finally, place the rolled Crispitos seam-side down in your air fryer, following the cooking instructions for your chosen recipe.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first few attempts aren't flawless. With a little patience and persistence, you'll be rolling tortillas like a pro in no time!

Cooking the crispitos

Now that you have your filling and your tortillas ready, it's time to cook your crispitos! Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect crispiness:

Prepare the Air Fryer: Start by setting up your air fryer. Preheat it to around 350°F–400°F (175°C–200°C). This temperature range will ensure that your crispitos cook evenly and become delightfully crispy.

Assemble the Crispitos: Take a fajita-sized flour tortilla and spread a small amount of queso sauce or cream cheese on it. This will act as a "glue" to hold the filling in place. Add your cooked ground beef filling (about 1/4 cup) in the centre and top with shredded cheese. Roll up the tortilla tightly and secure it with a toothpick. Repeat this process until you have assembled all your crispitos.

Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the assembled crispitos into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not stacked. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer to promote proper air circulation and even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.

Cooking Time: For the cooking time, there are a few different recommendations. One source suggests cooking at 400°F for about 10 minutes. Another suggests 375°F for 7–10 minutes, checking at the 5-minute mark. Keep in mind that air fryers can vary, so it's important to monitor your crispitos to ensure they don't overcook. You are aiming for a golden brown colour.

Flip Midway: To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to flip the crispitos gently halfway through the cooking process. This will help achieve an even crispy texture on both sides.

Check for Crispiness: Once the initial cooking time is complete, keep a close eye on the crispitos. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your slices and desired level of crispiness. Add an extra 2–5 minutes if needed.

Remove and Serve: Once your crispitos have reached the desired level of doneness, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a slotted spoon. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with your favourite dips or salsas. Enjoy!

Serving suggestions

Crispitos are a fun and tasty snack, perfect for kids' lunchboxes or a quick bite. They can be served as an appetizer, main course, or snack, and are great for a hungry crowd. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your crispitos:

Dips and Sauces:

• Salsa con queso
• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Yogurt-based dips
• Queso
• Ranch dressing

Toppings:

• Shredded lettuce
• Green chilies
• Salsa verde
• Shredded Mexican blend cheddar cheese
• Sliced jalapenos
• Chopped fresh tomatoes
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Green onions
• Mexican crema

Sides:

• Refried beans
• Black beans
• Spanish rice

Drinks:

Crispitos go well with a variety of drinks, depending on the occasion. For a fun and casual get-together, try serving them with margaritas or Mexican beer. For a non-alcoholic option, offer agua fresca or horchata.

Presentation:

• For a fun presentation, serve the crispitos on a platter with colorful toppings and dips. You could also provide different types of tortillas, such as corn or flour, and let your guests assemble their own.
• For a more elegant presentation, place the crispitos on a bed of lettuce with a side of salsa and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.

Frequently asked questions