How to Cook Poultry-Based Mexican Gorditas de Chicharrón
Gorditas de Chicharrón are a delicious traditional Mexican dish that brings a unique twist to any meal. This recipe utilizes poultry instead of pork for a lighter, yet equally tasty version of the classic gorditas. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to cook poultry-based Mexican Gorditas de Chicharrón.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken or turkey
- 1 cup of masa harina (corn dough)
- 1/4 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Your choice of toppings: salsa, avocado, cheese, or crema
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Masa
In a mixing bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add chicken broth to the dry mixture while mixing with your hands to form a soft dough. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more broth until it reaches a workable consistency.
2. Shape the Gorditas
Divide the dough into equal portions, roughly the size of a golf ball. Flatten each ball into a thick disc, about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure the edges are smooth to prevent them from breaking during cooking.
3. Add the Poultry Filling
Take a flattened disc and make a small indentation in the center. Spoon in a generous amount of shredded chicken or turkey into the indentation. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over to encase the filling, then gently flatten it again to form a thicker cake.
4. Fry the Gorditas
In a skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium heat to cover the bottom of the pan. Once hot, carefully place each gordita into the oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, so cook in batches if necessary.
5. Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the gorditas from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excessive oil. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like salsa, avocado slices, crumbled cheese, or crema.
Tips for Perfect Gorditas de Chicharrón
- For extra flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the masa dough.
- If you have leftover beef or pork, feel free to use that instead of poultry for varied flavor.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy texture.
Enjoy making Gorditas de Chicharrón at home! This delightful dish can be a wonderful addition to your family meals or a hit at your next gathering. With its savory filling and crispy exterior, poultry-based Gorditas de Chicharrón are sure to please any crowd!