Corn tortillas (frying)

16 Servings

Ingredients

Quantity Ingredient
See recipe for corn
Tortillas (making)

Directions

FOR 16 TORTILLAS

It's best to use either stale tortillas, or let the tortillas dry at room temperature for a few hours, since the moisture from fresh tortillas will cause splattering in the hot grease. FOR NACHOS: Cut each tortilla into sixths; for chips, cut them into eighths. As a garnish for soups such as Sopa Azteca, (see recipe for Sopa Azteca), cut them into strips. Heat oil slowly over medium heat in a Dutch oven or deep-fryer to a temperature of 375 degrees. Have a slotted spoon and paper towels ready. FOR CHIPS OR STRIPS: Add a handful at a time, being careful not to crowd the pan or the oil temperature will be lowered and the chips will become greasy without becoming crisp. Fry completely submerged in oil for 20 to 30 seconds, or until lightly browned and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining chips or strips. FOR A TACO SHELL: Place a tortilla into the hot oil and carefully fold it in half with tongs.

Keep the folded-over tortilla submerged in the oil until brown and crisp.

Shake over the pan to remove oil from the center, then drain upside down on paper towels, patting the outside to remove excess oil. FOR A BASKET: You can buy an appliance to make a perfectly round basket, or you can make a triangular basket with a meat pounder or tongs. Place a tortilla in the hot oil, then immediately push the center down into the oil, holding it in place until the sides have curled up around the cooking implement and are stiff and brown. Remove with tongs, drain off the excess oil, and drain upside down on paper towels, patting the outside to remove excess oil.

Source: SouthWest Tastes

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