Tacos de Canasta Easy

Tacos de Canasta Easy are a delightful treat that brings the authentic taste of Mexican street food right to your kitchen. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in, these tacos are filled with savory potato and chorizo, topped with zesty salsa. Their unique preparation method ensures every bite is packed with flavor and warmth, making them an ideal comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies the traditional process, allowing you to enjoy delicious tacos without the fuss.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of potatoes and chorizo creates a rich and satisfying taste that will please everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers or main dishes; Tacos de Canasta fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 20 servings, these tacos are perfect for parties or family gatherings.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy a true Mexican culinary experience right at home with this easy recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Tacos de Canasta Easy, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Blender
• Large pot
• Aluminum foil
• Plastic bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Essential for cooking the chorizo and frying the salsa mixture.
• Blender: Helps create a smooth salsa by blending roasted ingredients.
• Large pot: Ideal for boiling potatoes quickly and efficiently.
• Aluminum foil: Useful for lining baskets to keep tacos warm while resting.

Ingredients

Tasty Tacos de Canasta featuring potato, chorizo, and zesty salsa.

For the Tacos

• 20 corn tortillas
• 1 cup salsa verde
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 large potatoes
• 1 lb chorizo
• 1/4 white onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp salt

For the Salsa

• 1 cup canola oil
• 2 guajillo peppers, deseeded
• 1/4 white onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 bay leaves

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Tacos de Canasta Easy

Step 1: Boil and Mash Potatoes

Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft. Once cooked:
1. Drain the water.
2. Mash the potatoes with butter and milk to your preference.
3. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook Chorizo Mixture

In a frying pan over medium heat:
1. Cook the chorizo until browned.
2. Add mashed potatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Salsa Verde

Roast the following ingredients until browned:
– Sliced onion
– Whole garlic cloves
– Deseeded guajillo peppers

Once roasted:
1. Add canola oil and bay leaves; fry together until fragrant.
2. Blend everything in a blender until smooth.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into another pan and heat again.

Step 4: Assemble Tacos

To assemble:
1. Heat each tortilla briefly on a skillet.
2. Place a small amount of filling in each tortilla.
3. Fold them in half to form tacos.
4. Layer tacos in a row on butcher paper topped with sliced onion.

Step 5: Rest Tacos

Prepare your resting setup:
1. Line a basket or large pot with aluminum foil followed by a towel.
2. Place a plastic bag inside; add butcher paper for absorption.
3. Layer tacos as instructed earlier and pour oil-based salsa over them.
4. Seal the bag tightly and cover with a towel; allow resting for one hour before serving.

Now you’re ready to serve up these flavorful Tacos de Canasta Easy! Enjoy!

How to Serve Tacos de Canasta Easy

Serving Tacos de Canasta Easy is an enjoyable experience that can be tailored to suit various tastes. Here are some creative ways to present and enhance your tacos, making them a hit at any meal.

Classic Mexican Style

• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the tacos for a burst of flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick that complements the filling.

Spicy Additions

• Sliced Jalapeños: Add sliced jalapeños for those who like extra heat in their tacos.
• Hot Sauce: Provide a variety of hot sauces on the side to cater to different spice levels.

Accompaniments

• Fresh Salsa: Offer additional salsa options such as pico de gallo or mango salsa for varied tastes.
• Guacamole: Serve with creamy guacamole to add richness and flavor balance.

Garnishes

• Diced Avocado: Top with diced avocado for a creamy texture that pairs well with the chorizo and potatoes.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can cool down the spice and add creaminess.

How to Perfect Tacos de Canasta Easy

Perfecting Tacos de Canasta Easy involves attention to detail and some culinary tricks. Here are some tips to elevate your taco-making skills.

• Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas make all the difference in taste and texture; consider making them from scratch if you can.
• Flavorful Filling: Ensure the potato and chorizo filling is well-seasoned; taste before assembling your tacos for optimal flavor.
• Resting Time: Let the assembled tacos rest covered for a while before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Avoid Overfilling: Don’t overstuff your tortillas; it’s better to have smaller tacos that are easy to handle than spilling everywhere.
• Serve Warm: Keep everything warm as you serve so that each taco is enjoyed at its best temperature.

Best Side Dishes for Tacos de Canasta Easy

Tacos de Canasta Easy pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance the meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with tomatoes and spices makes a great base next to your tacos.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty side packed with protein, complementing your taco flavors perfectly.
3. Corn Elote: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder offers a sweet and spicy contrast.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, grilled lightly add freshness and color to your plate.
5. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and lime juice adds brightness and texture alongside your tacos.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a classic appetizer or snack before diving into the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tacos de Canasta Easy can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas are essential for the best texture and flavor. Always use freshly made or properly stored tortillas for optimal results.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you boil the potatoes too long, they become waterlogged. Boil them just until soft, then mash with care to avoid excess moisture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season your filling properly can lead to bland tacos. Taste your mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
• Skipping the resting period: Letting the tacos rest is crucial for the flavors to meld. Don’t rush this step; an hour makes a big difference in taste.
• Not layering correctly: Proper layering helps keep the tacos warm and flavorful. Use butcher paper wisely to prevent sogginess while maintaining warmth.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Tacos de Canasta Easy in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tacos de Canasta Easy

• Place individual tacos in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Tacos de Canasta Easy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in aluminum foil and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Tacos de Canasta Easy?

Tacos de Canasta Easy are simple yet delicious Mexican tacos filled with potato and chorizo, topped with zesty salsa. They are perfect for any occasion!

How do I customize my Tacos de Canasta Easy?

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like cheese, beans, or different types of salsa. Customize it based on your taste preferences!

Can I make these tacos vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chorizo with sautéed mushrooms or veggies for a tasty vegetarian alternative in Tacos de Canasta Easy.

What can I serve with Tacos de Canasta Easy?

These tacos pair wonderfully with Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve extra salsa on the side for added flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Tacos de Canasta Easy?

The total time is about 90 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a feasible dish even on busy days.

Final Thoughts

Tacos de Canasta Easy offer a wonderful blend of flavors that anyone can enjoy. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and toppings according to your likes. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family gatherings or casual meals at home!