Tortilla chips are crunchy little triangles perfect for snacking. Made from corn tortillas and baked or fried until golden, they are super tasty and fun to eat!
Pair them with salsa, guacamole, or queso, and you have a party on your plate! I always keep a bag handy for movie nights. You know, just in case! 🎥🍿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are essential for making tortilla chips. I like using yellow corn tortillas for a rich flavor, but white corn tortillas work just as well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free!
Oil: Vegetable or canola oil is great for frying as they have a high smoke point. If you prefer, you can use avocado oil for a slightly healthier option. Just avoid using olive oil, as it doesn’t fry well at high temperatures.
Salt: It’s crucial to season the chips right after frying. While regular salt is fine, garlic powder or a dash of chili powder can add an exciting twist! Tailor the flavor to your preference.
How Do I Get My Tortilla Chips Extra Crispy?
To ensure your tortilla chips turn out perfectly crispy, follow these steps carefully:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chips. If it’s too cool, the chips will soak up oil and become soggy.
- Fry the chips in small batches. This keeps the oil temperature steady and prevents them from steaming instead of frying.
- Keep an eye on the chips as they fry! They can go from golden to burned quickly.
- Drain excess oil on paper towels right after frying, and don’t skip the seasoning while they’re warm.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious and crispy tortilla chips ready for your favorite dips or snacks! Enjoy!
How to Make Tortilla Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 corn tortillas (preferably white or yellow)
- 2 to 3 cups vegetable oil or canola oil (for frying)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional: lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for frying. In total, you’ll be enjoying your homemade tortilla chips in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tortillas:
Start by stacking all the corn tortillas on top of each other. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the stacked tortillas into triangular wedges. Typically, you can cut each tortilla into 6 to 8 pieces, depending on how big you want your chips.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large, deep skillet or pot, pour in enough oil to cover the bottom, about 2 to 3 cups. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough to fry. It should reach around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of tortilla in; if it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready!
3. Fry the Chips:
Carefully add a handful of tortilla triangles into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can make the chips soggy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to gently flip the chips, so they cook evenly. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
4. Drain and Season:
Once the chips are cooked, use your slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps absorb excess oil. While the chips are still warm, sprinkle them with salt to taste. Feel free to get creative by adding other spices if you’d like!
5. Serve and Store:
Serve your tortilla chips immediately with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze! If you have leftovers, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
Enjoy your crispy homemade tortilla chips with salsa, guacamole, or your favorite dip!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn?
While you can use flour tortillas, they’ll produce a different texture and flavor—flour chips are usually softer. For the best result, stick with corn tortillas, as they give the classic crunchy bite!
What’s the Best Way to Know When the Oil is Ready?
A simple test is to drop a small piece of tortilla into the oil. If it bubbles and rises quickly, the oil is ready for frying. If it sinks without bubbling, the oil needs to heat a bit longer.
How Can I Store Leftover Chips?
Once cooled, store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about 3 days. If they begin to lose their crispiness, you can re-crisp them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes!
Can I Bake Tortilla Chips Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the tortilla wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.