Craving a flavorful and satisfying appetizer or meal? Look no further than these crispy Beef and Potato Flautas! This recipe delivers a delightful fusion of textures and tastes, combining tender beef, fluffy potatoes, and a vibrant blend of spices all encased in golden-brown, crispy tortillas. Forget bland, boring appetizers – these flautas are packed with deliciousness, perfect for game day, a casual get-together, or a quick and easy weeknight dinner. They're surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
The secret to perfectly crispy flautas lies in the careful balance of ingredients and a simple, yet effective cooking technique. From prepping the filling to achieving that perfect crisp, we’ll guide you through every step of the way. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step process to create these irresistible Beef and Potato Flautas!
Tools Needed
- Pressure cooker
- Pot
- Blender
- Frying pan
- Microwave oven/Comal
Ingredients
- Beef skirt steak: 700 grams
- Onion: 0.5
- Thyme: A handful
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Bay leaf: 1
- Potatoes: 2
- Green tomatoes: 400 grams
- Serrano chilies: 2
- Cilantro: A bunch
- Cream for tacos: To taste
- Fresh cheese: 1 cup
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup
- Tortillas
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling
- In a pressure cooker, combine beef, thyme, bay leaf, garlic, and half an onion. Add salt. Cook for 45 minutes (or 2 hours on the stovetop).
- Boil potatoes in a separate pot until well-cooked.
- Boil green tomatoes and chilies in another pot until the tomatoes change color (do not overcook).
- Blend the cooked green tomatoes, chilies, cilantro, and garlic with a bit of salt.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, peel and chop them into small pieces.
- Shred the cooked beef.
- In a frying pan, sauté half a chopped onion until translucent. Add the chopped potatoes and season with salt.
- Add the shredded beef to the frying pan and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
Step 2. Assemble the Flautas
- Warm tortillas (microwave, comal, or frying pan).
- Fill each tortilla with the beef and potato mixture, top with mozzarella cheese, and roll up. Secure with a toothpick.
Step 3. Fry the Flautas
- Fry the flautas in hot oil until golden brown on all sides.
Step 4. Serve
- Remove the toothpicks and serve with cream and fresh cheese.
Read more: Juicy Birria Quesa Tacos Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- To prevent the tomato sauce from becoming bitter, don't let the tomatoes overcook; remove them when they change color.
- If frying, use medium heat to ensure even browning.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 2800-3200
- Fat: 150-180g
- Carbs: 180-220g
- Protein: 150-170g
FAQs
1. Can I make the flautas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the flautas a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake or fry them just before serving to ensure they're crispy.
2. What can I substitute for beef?
Ground chicken or turkey are great substitutes for the beef. You can also use shredded pork or even lentils for a vegetarian option. Adjust seasonings to suit your choice of protein.
3. How do I keep the flautas crispy?
Ensure the tortillas are completely dry before filling and rolling. Bake or fry them at a high enough temperature to get a good crisp. Serve immediately for best results. If reheating, use a low oven and don't overcrowd the pan.
These Beef and Potato Flautas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite. From appetizer to main course, they're incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy these crispy, delicious flautas!