Authentic Mexican Beef Gorditas Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of ground beef
  • 1 packet of taco seasoning
  • 1 cup of refried beans
  • 1 cup of shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup of diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup of diced onions
  • 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup of sour cream
  • 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup of vegetable oil for frying
  • For Gorditas dough:
    • 2 cups of Masa Harina
    • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
    • 1 1/4 cups of warm water

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain the excess fat.
  2. Add taco seasoning to the ground beef and mix well. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the Masa Harina and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with your hands to make a soft dough. The dough should be moist but not sticky. If it's too dry, add more water, a tablespoon at a time.
  4. Divide the dough into 12 equal parts and roll each into a ball.
  5. Using a tortilla press or a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a disc about 5 inches in diameter.
  6. In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry each gordita until golden brown, about 2 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels.
  7. When the gorditas are cool enough to handle, make a slit in the edge of each one to form a pocket.
  8. Fill each gordita with a tablespoon of refried beans, a spoonful of ground beef, and a sprinkling of lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and cheese. Top with a dollop of sour cream.
  9. Serve the gorditas immediately, while still warm.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
  • Replace the Masa Harina with all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour to make the gorditas.
  • Add spices or herbs to the gordita dough, such as garlic powder, cumin, or dried oregano, for extra flavor.
  • Make the gorditas gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or corn flour.
  • Experiment with different fillings, such as grilled vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or black beans for a vegetarian option.
  • Try different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or queso fresco, for a unique flavor profile.
  • Add some heat by including sliced jalapenos or a drizzle of hot sauce.
  • Serve the gorditas with salsa, guacamole, or pico de gallo on the side for dipping or topping.
  • For a healthier version, bake the gorditas instead of frying them. Brush them with a little oil and bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Recipe overview

This recipe will guide you through the steps to create delicious Beef Gorditas, a popular Mexican dish that's perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. These homemade gorditas are stuffed with seasoned ground beef and topped with a variety of fresh ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and cheese, along with a dollop of sour cream. Making the gordita shells from scratch may seem daunting, but with a few simple ingredients and steps, you'll be frying up these tasty pockets in no time. Enjoy the process and the wonderful flavors of this homemade Mexican delight!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
  2. Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian meat substitutes if you prefer.
  3. Can I make the gordita dough ahead of time?
  4. Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
  5. What can I substitute for Masa Harina if I can't find it?
  6. If you can't find Masa Harina, you can try using cornmeal as a substitute. However, note that the texture and flavor of the gorditas may be slightly different.
  7. Can I bake the gorditas instead of frying them?
  8. While traditionally gorditas are fried, you can bake them as a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the flattened gorditas on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
  9. Can I customize the toppings?
  10. Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute any toppings to suit your taste preferences. Some popular options include guacamole, salsa, jalapenos, or even pickled onions.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Skillet - A large skillet for cooking the ground beef.
  • Tortilla Press - A tool used to flatten the dough into discs.
  • Rolling Pin - An alternative to a tortilla press for flattening the dough.
  • Deep Fryer - Optional, but helpful for frying the gorditas. Can also use a large skillet.
  • Paper Towels - For draining the fried gorditas.
  • Knife - For dicing tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
  • Cutting Board - To safely chop ingredients.
  • Serving Platter - A plate or platter for serving the gorditas.

Origin stories

Gorditas, which translates to "little fat ones" in Spanish, are a popular street food in Mexico. They're named for their plump shape, which makes them perfect for stuffing with a variety of fillings. In Mexico, you'll find gorditas filled with everything from chicharron (pork rinds) to nopales (cactus), reflecting the country's rich culinary diversity. Interestingly, the preparation of gorditas can vary by region. In northern Mexico, they're often fried to create a crispy exterior, while in the southern part of the country, they're more likely to be baked on a griddle. Regardless of how they're cooked, gorditas are a beloved part of Mexican cuisine. Enjoying a freshly made gordita, filled with your favorite ingredients, is a culinary experience that connects you to the vibrant and hearty tradition of Mexican street food.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.