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How to Fry Tortillas
5 from 168 votes

How to Fry Tortillas

This guide for frying tortillas shows how to heat corn tortillas in hot oil until blistered and pliable, then fold them into taco shells and crisp them golden brown. The technique produces tortillas with a crisp exterior and soft, slightly pliable interior, suitable for immediate serving or keeping warm in an oven.

Cook Time
55 mins
Total Time
55 mins
Servings: 4
Calories: 66 kcal
Course: Main Course, Appetizer
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

  • corn oil or vegetable oil
  • 8 (8-inch) corn tortillas

Instructions

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  1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees. Set a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add about 1/2 inch vegetable oil and heat to 350 degrees. Add one tortilla to the skillet and cook until it is blistering but still soft, 10 to 15 seconds. Using tongs, turn tortilla over and then immediately fold to form a taco shell.
  3. Once the tortilla is holding its shape, turn until crisp and golden all over, 15 to 30 seconds longer. Transfer to wire rack and keep warm in oven while repeating with remaining tortillas.

Notes

  • Corn oil is ideal for frying tortillas due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point; other neutral oils can also be used.
  • Ensure the oil temperature is around 350°F to blister tortillas quickly without burning.
  • Do not overcrowd the oil to maintain consistent temperature and crispness.
  • Season fried tortillas with salt or other spices while still warm for best flavor.
  • Leftover fried tortillas should be stored in a paper bag at room temperature to avoid sogginess and can be reheated in the oven to crisp them.

Nutrition Information

Calories 66kcal (3%) Carbohydrates 1g (0%) Protein 1g (2%) Fat 7g (11%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Trans Fat 1g (50%) Sodium 1mg (0%) Potassium 4mg (0%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 1g (2%) Vitamin A 1IU (0%) Calcium 2mg (0%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4 Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 66

% Daily Value*

Calories 66kcal 3%
Carbohydrates 1g 0%
Protein 1g 2%
Fat 7g 11%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Trans Fat 1g 50%
Sodium 1mg 0%
Potassium 4mg 0%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 1g 2%
Vitamin A 1IU 0%
Calcium 2mg 0%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.