Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a crunchy twist? These Crispy Homemade Tortilla Strips are not just a delicious addition to your favorite dips and salads; they are an irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for more! With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 25 minutes of your time, you can whip up these golden, crispy delights that are perfect for parties, movie nights, or simply satisfying those late-night cravings. Dive into our recipe and discover the secret to achieving the perfect crunch every time!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 6 corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and equipment: corn tortillas, vegetable oil, salt, a sharp knife, large skillet or deep fryer, paper towels, and a slotted spoon or spider strainer.
- Stack the corn tortillas neatly and use a sharp knife to cut them into uniform thin strips, approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide. For best results, cut the tortillas in half first, then stack and slice into strips.
- Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, filling it about 1-2 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a cooking thermometer for precise temperature control.
- Carefully add tortilla strips to the hot oil in small batches, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This prevents strips from sticking together and ensures even cooking.
- Fry the strips for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and become crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, remove the strips from the oil and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Immediately sprinkle hot tortilla strips with salt to taste. For extra flavor, consider adding chili powder or cumin.
- Allow strips to cool for 2-3 minutes, during which they will become even crispier. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Tips
- Uniform Cutting: For the best results, ensure that your tortilla strips are cut evenly. This helps them cook uniformly, so some don’t burn while others remain soft.
- Oil Temperature: Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Keeping it at 350-375°F (175-190°C) is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness without overcooking.
- Batch Frying: Fry the tortilla strips in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy strips instead of crispy ones.
- Season Immediately: Sprinkle salt on the strips right after frying while they're still hot. This helps the salt adhere better, enhancing the flavor.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with seasonings! After salting, try adding a sprinkle of chili powder, cumin, or even a touch of lime zest for a zesty kick.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’ll stay crispy if kept away from moisture.
- Serving Ideas: Serve your crispy tortilla strips with guacamole, salsa, or as a crunchy topping for soups and salads for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
