Homemade Taquitos

When it comes to comfort food, few things can rival the satisfaction of biting into a crisp, golden taquito. These delightful rolled tortillas, filled with savory goodness, are perfect for snacking, entertaining, or even a cozy dinner at home. Today, we’ll be whipping up a batch of homemade taquitos using jackfruit, making them not only delicious but also a fantastic plant-based option. With the right spices and toppings, these Homemade Taquitos are sure to impress everyone at your table!

Why It Deserves a Spot

Homemade Taquitos deserve a spot on your menu for several reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the filling to suit your taste. The shredded jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled meat, making it an ideal base for a delicious taquito filling. Furthermore, they’re perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or just looking for a quick snack, these taquitos will steal the show.

What Goes In

To create these flavorful Homemade Taquitos, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 (20-ounce) can jackfruit, cored and shredded
• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• Pinch cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, drained
• 12 to 14 flour or flour+corn tortillas*
• ½ cup refried beans
• ½ cup jack cheese
• ½ cup chopped scallions
• Extra-virgin olive oil cooking spray
• Toppings: Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, cilantro, serranos

*Note: Feel free to use a mix of flour and corn tortillas for a delightful texture.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following kitchen gear handy:

• Large skillet – for sautéing the filling.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the ingredients.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring.
• Baking sheet – for crisping the taquitos in the oven.
• Plastic wrap or damp cloth – to keep tortillas warm and pliable.

Homemade Taquitos: How It’s Done

Let’s get started on making these delicious Homemade Taquitos! Follow these steps for a crunchy and flavorful treat.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the grated garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the shredded jackfruit, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is heated through and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Add the Extras

Once the jackfruit mixture is cooked, stir in the drained diced green chiles. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a tortilla and spread a thin layer of refried beans down the center. Add a spoonful of the jackfruit mixture, a sprinkle of jack cheese, and a few chopped scallions. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down on a baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 4: Bake for Crispiness

Lightly spray the taquitos with extra-virgin olive oil cooking spray to ensure they get nice and crispy. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve with Toppings

Once out of the oven, let the taquitos cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, fresh cilantro, and sliced serranos for an extra kick!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

These Homemade Taquitos can easily be dressed up for the holidays or special occasions. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Sweet Potato & Black Bean Taquitos – Swap jackfruit for mashed sweet potatoes and black beans for a hearty filling.
• Buffalo Cauliflower Taquitos – Toss roasted cauliflower in buffalo sauce for a spicy twist.
• Cheesy Spinach & Artichoke Taquitos – Mix spinach, artichoke hearts, and cream cheese for a creamy filling.
• Breakfast Taquitos – Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggies for a brunch favorite.

Little Things that Matter

The secret to perfect Homemade Taquitos lies in the details. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Warming the tortillas: Before filling, warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave to make them more pliable.
• Don’t overfill: Use just enough filling to ensure the taquitos roll tightly without bursting.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to match your flavor preferences or try adding some smoked paprika for depth.
• Serve with a variety of dips: Offering multiple dips can cater to different tastes and enhance the overall experience.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover Homemade Taquitos (which is rare!), here’s how to properly store and reheat them:

• Storing: Keep leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let them cool completely, then arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for a quick reheating option.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different type of filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can use beans, lentils, or even shredded chicken or beef if you prefer a meat-based filling.

What should I serve with taquitos?

Taquitos pair wonderfully with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget the dipping sauces!

How do I keep my taquitos crispy?

Ensure they are baked at a high temperature and lightly sprayed with oil. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation.

Can I make them ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and assemble the taquitos ahead of time. Simply store them in the fridge and bake them when ready to serve.

If you’re looking to expand your cooking repertoire this weekend, consider these fun projects:

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details on making Homemade Taquitos, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Whether you choose to stick with the jackfruit filling or explore other options, these taquitos promise to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy the process of creating this delightful dish. You’ll be amazed at how satisfying it is to make your own taquitos from scratch. Happy cooking!