Are you tired of relying on store-bought taco shells or struggling with the hassle of deep-frying your own? Look no further. Making hard taco shells in the microwave is a game-changer for taco lovers everywhere. Not only is it quick and easy, but it’s also a healthier alternative to traditional methods. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making delicious hard taco shells in the microwave, and provide you with some valuable tips and tricks along the way.
Why Make Your Own Taco Shells?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of making hard taco shells in the microwave, let’s talk about why you should make your own in the first place. Here are just a few compelling reasons:
- Customization: When you make your own taco shells, you have complete control over the ingredients and the flavor. Want to add some extra spice or a sprinkle of cheese? No problem.
- Cost-effective: Making your own taco shells can be a cost-effective alternative to buying them in stores. Plus, you can make a big batch and freeze them for later.
- Healthier option: By making your own taco shells, you can avoid the preservatives and additives found in many store-bought options. Plus, you can use whole wheat or corn tortillas for a healthier twist.
Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before you start making your hard taco shells, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and some basic equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tortillas: You can use either corn or flour tortillas for this recipe. Corn tortillas will give you a more traditional taco flavor, while flour tortillas will be slightly softer and more pliable.
- Microwave-safe plate: You’ll need a microwave-safe plate to cook your tortillas on. Make sure it’s large enough to hold a single tortilla.
- Paper towels: You’ll need some paper towels to wrap your tortillas in after cooking. This will help them retain their shape and crisp up.
- Microwave: This might seem obvious, but you’ll need a microwave to cook your tortillas. Make sure it’s set to the correct power level (we’ll get to that in a minute).
Optional Ingredients
If you want to add some extra flavor to your taco shells, you can try adding some of the following ingredients:
- Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of your tortillas before cooking for an extra burst of flavor.
- Spices: Add some cumin, chili powder, or paprika to your tortillas for a spicy kick.
- Herbs: Mix in some chopped cilantro or scallions for a fresh, herbal flavor.
The Step-by-Step Process
Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment, it’s time to start making your hard taco shells. Here’s the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Warm Up Your Tortillas
The first step in making hard taco shells is to warm up your tortillas. This will make them more pliable and easier to shape. To do this, simply wrap a tortilla in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Step 2: Shape Your Tortillas
Once your tortillas are warm, it’s time to shape them into taco shells. To do this, simply place a tortilla on a flat surface and use your hands to shape it into a curved shell. You can also use a taco shell mold or a bowl to help shape your tortillas.
Step 3: Cook Your Tortillas
Now that your tortillas are shaped, it’s time to cook them. To do this, place a tortilla on a microwave-safe plate and cook for 30-45 seconds. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Step 4: Crisp Up Your Shells
After cooking your tortillas, you’ll need to crisp them up to make them hard and crunchy. To do this, simply wrap a tortilla in a paper towel and microwave for an additional 10-15 seconds. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Tips and Tricks for Making Perfect Hard Taco Shells
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make perfect hard taco shells:
- Use the right type of tortilla: Corn tortillas will give you a more traditional taco flavor, while flour tortillas will be slightly softer and more pliable.
- Don’t overcook your tortillas: Cooking your tortillas for too long can make them dry and brittle. Aim for 30-45 seconds per tortilla.
- Use a microwave-safe plate: Make sure your plate is microwave-safe to avoid any accidents or injuries.
- Experiment with different flavors: Try adding some cheese, spices, or herbs to your tortillas for a unique flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making hard taco shells:
- Overcooking your tortillas: Cooking your tortillas for too long can make them dry and brittle.
- Not using a microwave-safe plate: Make sure your plate is microwave-safe to avoid any accidents or injuries.
- Not shaping your tortillas correctly: Make sure to shape your tortillas into a curved shell to get the right shape.
Conclusion
Making hard taco shells in the microwave is a quick and easy process that can add a delicious twist to your tacos. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create perfect hard taco shells every time. So next time you’re in the mood for tacos, give this recipe a try and see the difference for yourself.
Additional Resources
If you’re looking for more information on making hard taco shells or want to try some new recipes, here are some additional resources to check out:
- Taco shell recipes: Try out some new recipes for taco shells, such as baked taco shells or grilled taco shells.
- Taco filling recipes: Experiment with different taco filling recipes, such as seasoned ground beef or roasted vegetables.
- Mexican cooking tips: Learn some new tips and tricks for cooking Mexican food, such as how to make homemade salsa or guacamole.
What are the benefits of making hard taco shells in the microwave?
Making hard taco shells in the microwave offers several benefits, including convenience and time-saving. Unlike traditional methods that require deep-frying or baking, microwaving allows you to cook taco shells quickly and easily, with minimal cleanup required. This method is also healthier, as it eliminates the need for excess oil.
Additionally, microwaving gives you more control over the cooking process, allowing you to achieve the perfect level of crispiness for your taco shells. You can also customize the cooking time to suit your personal preference, whether you like your shells lightly toasted or extra crispy.
What type of tortillas are best for making hard taco shells in the microwave?
The best type of tortillas for making hard taco shells in the microwave are corn tortillas. Corn tortillas have a more robust texture and a slightly sweet flavor that holds up well to microwaving. They are also more prone to becoming crispy, which is ideal for hard taco shells.
When selecting corn tortillas, look for ones that are labeled as “taco-sized” or “street taco-sized.” These tortillas are typically smaller and more pliable, making them easier to shape into taco shells. You can also use yellow or white corn tortillas, depending on your personal preference.
How do I shape the tortillas into taco shells?
To shape the tortillas into taco shells, start by placing a tortilla on a flat surface. Hold the tortilla vertically and gently press the center of the tortilla to create a fold. This will help the tortilla hold its shape as it cooks.
Next, place the tortilla in a microwave-safe dish or on a paper towel, with the folded side facing down. You can also use a taco shell mold or a curved surface to help the tortilla hold its shape. Make sure the tortilla is not overlapping or folded in on itself, as this can prevent it from cooking evenly.
How long do I cook the taco shells in the microwave?
The cooking time for taco shells in the microwave will depend on the strength of your microwave and the number of tortillas you are cooking. As a general rule, cook one or two tortillas for 20-30 seconds, or until they are lightly toasted and pliable.
For crisper taco shells, cook the tortillas for an additional 10-15 seconds, or until they are golden brown and rigid. Be careful not to overcook the tortillas, as this can cause them to become brittle and break apart. You can also cook the tortillas in batches to ensure even cooking.
Can I add seasonings or flavorings to the taco shells?
Yes, you can add seasonings or flavorings to the taco shells before or after cooking. To add flavor before cooking, simply sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, or your favorite seasoning blend onto the tortilla before microwaving.
Alternatively, you can brush the cooked taco shells with a small amount of oil or cooking spray and sprinkle with seasonings or grated cheese. This will help the flavors adhere to the shell and add extra flavor to your tacos. You can also try using different types of oil, such as chili oil or lime oil, to add a unique flavor to your taco shells.
How do I store leftover taco shells?
Leftover taco shells can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. To keep the shells fresh, place them in a single layer in the container and cover with a paper towel or plastic wrap.
If you don’t plan to use the taco shells within a day, you can also store them in the freezer. Simply place the shells in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen shells to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave the frozen shells for 10-15 seconds, or until crispy.
Can I use this method to make other types of taco shells?
While this method is specifically designed for making hard taco shells, you can also use it to make other types of taco shells, such as soft taco shells or taco cups. To make soft taco shells, simply cook the tortillas for a shorter amount of time, or until they are lightly toasted and still pliable.
To make taco cups, cook the tortillas for a longer amount of time, or until they are crispy and rigid. Then, use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut out the center of the tortilla, creating a cup shape. You can also use this method to make other types of Mexican dishes, such as tostadas or chalupas.