Flaquitos
Description
Flaquitos are a classic Mexican appetizer that combines the comforting taste of seasoned ground beef with the crunch of a deep-fried tortilla. These little rolls are stuffed with a savory mixture of lean beef, aromatic cumin, garlic, and grated onion, all bound together with gooey shredded cheese. The result is a perfect balance of textures: the exterior is golden and crisp, while the interior remains tender and flavorful. They are incredibly easy to assemble and fry quickly, making them an ideal choice for casual gatherings, weekend snacks, or as a hearty starter before a larger meal. Serve them warm with a side of salsa or hot sauce for dipping.Ingredients
Directions
-
Heat the 1 teaspoon of cooking oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the grated onion and saut&# 195;© until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
-
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink.
-
Stir in the salt, cumin, minced garlic, and hot sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
-
In a deep pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil for frying to 350ðF (175ðC).
-
Take a fresh tortilla and place 2 tablespoons of the cooled beef mixture on one half. Top with 1-2 teaspoons of shredded cheese.
-
Fold the empty half of the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press gently to seal, then secure the edge with a toothpick.
-
Carefully lower a few flaquitos into the hot oil. Fry for 1-2 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
-
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 18
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 167.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10.1g16%
- Saturated Fat 3.6g18%
- Cholesterol 44.3mg15%
- Sodium 4918.9mg205%
- Total Carbohydrate 2.9g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.6g3%
- Sugars 1.1g
- Protein 15.3g31%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Safety: Always remove toothpicks before serving. Be careful when handling hot oil; lower the flaquitos gently to avoid splattering.
Storage: Best served immediately while crispy. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness.
Variations: You can add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra heat, or use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for better melting.
Tip: Ensure the beef filling is not too hot when assembling, as this can make the tortillas soggy and difficult to roll. Letting it cool for 10 minutes helps.
