Tacos are a beloved Mexican dish that have become a staple in households worldwide. A taco shell is a crucial component of this delectable dish, and the way it is heated can impact its taste and texture significantly. There are several methods of heating corn taco shells, each with its pros and cons.
Heating taco shells may seem like a simple task, but it requires precision and practice to achieve perfectly crisp and flavorful shells. From oven to stovetop, every method has its unique perks and challenges. In this article, we will dig deep into the different techniques of heating corn taco shells and reveal some tips to help you achieve excellent results every time, ensuring that your tacos are always irresistible.
Baking Taco Shells in Oven
Baking taco shells in the oven is a great way to heat them up and get them crispy. First, start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven is heating up, place the taco shells on a baking sheet. Be sure to spread them out evenly so that they get evenly heated and don’t overlap, which could cause them to stick together.
Once your oven is preheated and your taco shells are on the baking sheet, place the sheet in the oven for about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn, as every oven is different. Once they’re heated and crispy, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a minute before filling them with your favorite ingredients. Baking taco shells in the oven is a simple and effective way to heat them up, and they’ll taste just as good as if they were freshly fried.
Heating in Microwave
Heating corn taco shells in the microwave is a quick and easy way to get them ready for your favorite fillings. Here is how you can do it.
First, you need to make sure that your taco shells are microwave-safe. Most store-bought shells are, but it’s always a good idea to check the packaging. Then, place the taco shells on a microwave-safe plate and heat them for about 30 seconds on high power. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause them to become too brittle and break apart. Once they’re heated, you can fill them with your desired ingredients and enjoy! Microwave heating is best for those in a hurry to enjoy the tacos and thus it is a great option for busy weeknights.
Frying Taco Shells in Oil
Frying taco shells in oil is a popular method of heating corn taco shells. It involves heating the oil in a shallow pan or skillet until it reaches the right temperature for deep-frying. Once the oil is hot enough, the taco shells are carefully placed in the oil and fried until they are crispy and golden brown.
One thing to keep in mind when frying taco shells in oil is that they can quickly become overcooked or burned if left in the oil for too long. It’s also important to use the right kind of oil that has a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, to prevent the shells from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy. Overall, frying taco shells in oil is a simple and effective way to heat corn taco shells and give them a delicious crunchy texture.
Toasting Taco Shells on Stovetop
Toasting corn taco shells on the stovetop is an easy and foolproof way to give your tacos a little extra crunch and flavor. To get started, heat up a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. While the pan is heating, gently fold each taco shell in half to create a U-shape. This step will help keep the toppings in place and prevent the shell from breaking.
Place one or two taco shells in the heated skillet and let them cook for about 30 seconds, or until they start to turn a light golden brown. Use tongs or a spatula to flip the shells over and cook the other side for another 10-15 seconds. Once both sides are toasted, remove the shells from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat this process with the remaining taco shells until all are toasted and ready to be filled with your favorite ingredients.
Using a Tortilla Warmer
Using a tortilla warmer is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to heat corn taco shells. These warmers come in a variety of sizes and shapes and are made from materials like cloth or plastic. The benefit of using a tortilla warmer is that it keeps the shells warm and soft for up to an hour, making it easy to serve plenty of tacos at once.
To use a tortilla warmer, lightly spray the inside with cooking oil or place a damp paper towel on the bottom. Next, stack your corn taco shells inside, and microwave for 30 seconds or until warm. Alternatively, some tortilla warmers can be heated in the oven or on a stove top for a crispier shell. Once heated, the shells can be left in the warmer until ready to serve. Overall, using a tortilla warmer is a hassle-free and efficient way to heat up corn taco shells.
Choosing the Right Corn Taco Shells
When it comes to making tacos, it’s essential to choose the right type of corn taco shells. Corn taco shells come in various shapes and sizes, including soft, hard, and crispy options. The ideal shell ultimately depends on your preference and the type of filling you’ll use to stuff the taco. If you’re making tacos with soft filling, then it’s best to choose soft shells. On the other hand, if you’ll be using a hard or crispy filling, then a hard shell would be an appropriate choice.
Another factor to consider when choosing corn taco shells is the brand. Some brands produce unreliable shells that break or crumble easily, which can ruin your taco experience. The best approach is to opt for high-quality brands with a reputation for producing sturdy, delicious taco shells. These dependable brands will ensure that your tacos stay intact and delicious throughout your meal. Ultimately, choosing the right corn taco shells involves personal preference and quality brand choices.
Tips for Keeping Taco Shells Warm and Crispy.
Keeping taco shells warm and crispy is a crucial tip to ensure that your tacos do not get soggy or fall apart while eating. One method to achieve this is to place the heated taco shells in a warming container or wrap them in a clean towel. This will help retain heat and prevent them from getting cold quickly.
Another tip is to preheat your oven to a low temperature, place the taco shells on a baking tray, and keep them in the oven for a few minutes. This method not only warms the taco shells but also helps in crisping them up. However, make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Following these tips carefully will help you keep your taco shells warm and crispy, providing the perfect base for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Corn taco shells are a classic Mexican dish and can be a great addition to any meal. However, heating them can be a bit of a challenge. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your corn taco shells are soft, pliable, and ready to be filled with your favorite toppings.
Whether you choose to heat your corn taco shells on the stove, in the oven, or in the microwave, it’s important to remember to handle them carefully to prevent them from breaking. By taking the time to properly heat your corn taco shells, you can elevate your tacos to a whole new level, and enjoy delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine from the comfort of your own home.