Authentic Mexican Gorditas Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Masa harina
  • 1 1/2 cups of warm water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup refried beans
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced white onion
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (Queso fresco or cheddar)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup salsa or hot sauce
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the masa harina and salt. Gradually add in warm water, kneading until the dough is firm and springy. If it's dry or crumbly, add a bit more water. If it's sticky, add a bit more masa harina.
  2. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it to about 1/2 inch thick.
  3. Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each gordita for about 3 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned and cooked through.
  4. Once the gorditas are cooked, let them cool slightly. Then, using a sharp knife, cut a slit halfway through the edge of each gordita to create a pocket.
  5. Heat a large pan with oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the gorditas and fry them until they're golden brown on each side. Remove the gorditas and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
  6. Fill each gordita with a spoonful of refried beans, and then add the lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cheese, sour cream, and salsa to taste. Serve warm.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of masa harina for a healthier version
  • Add cooked and seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken as a filling
  • Replace refried beans with black beans or pinto beans
  • Add sliced avocado or guacamole as a topping
  • Include pickled jalapenos or other types of peppers for a spicy kick
  • Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, queso fresco, or pepper jack
  • Make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and increasing the amount of vegetables
  • Add a squeeze of lime juice or sprinkle cilantro on top for added freshness
  • For a gluten-free option, use corn flour or a gluten-free flour blend
  • Try baking the gorditas instead of frying them for a healthier alternative

Recipe overview

Get ready to transport your taste buds to Mexico with this authentic Gordita recipe! Gorditas, which means "little fat ones" in Spanish, are a popular street food in Mexico. These delicious treats are made by creating a thick corn tortilla and stuffing it with an array of fillings, like refried beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. This recipe will guide you through the process of making gorditas from scratch at home, including how to prepare the masa dough, cook the gorditas, and stuff them with a variety of tasty ingredients. It's a slightly involved process, but the delicious results are well worth it! Expect a tasty, filling meal that's perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering. Enjoy your homemade gorditas hot and fresh for the best experience.

Common questions

  1. Can I use regular flour instead of masa harina? No, masa harina is a special type of flour made from corn that is necessary to achieve the authentic texture and flavor of gorditas.
  2. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Do I have to fry the gorditas? Frying the gorditas gives them a delicious crispy texture, but if you prefer a healthier option, you can cook them on a griddle without oil. They will still be tasty.
  4. Can I use different fillings? Absolutely! While this recipe suggests using refried beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cheese, sour cream, and salsa, you can get creative and use any fillings you like. Some popular alternatives include shredded chicken, beef, or grilled vegetables.
  5. Can I freeze the gorditas? Yes, you can freeze the cooked gorditas. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They should be consumed within 2-3 months for the best quality.
  6. Can I reheat the gorditas? Yes, you can reheat gorditas in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent them from becoming too crispy.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the masa harina and water to make the dough.
  • Griddle or Non-Stick Skillet - Used to cook the gorditas on the stovetop.
  • Knife - A sharp knife to cut a slit in the gorditas for filling.
  • Large Pan - A pan with oil for frying the gorditas.
  • Paper Towels - To drain excess oil from the fried gorditas.
  • Serving Spoon - For spooning the refried beans onto the gorditas.
  • Spatula - To flip the gorditas while cooking.

Origin stories

Gorditas, meaning "little fat ones" in Spanish, are a staple in Mexican cuisine, particularly in the northern regions of the country. They have been part of Mexican culinary tradition since pre-Columbian times, when they were made with ground corn kernels. The Spanish conquistadors introduced wheat to Mexico in the 16th century, which later became another common ingredient in gorditas. Today, these delightful pockets of stuffed dough can be found filled with a variety of ingredients, from meat and cheese to vegetables and beans, making them a versatile and beloved part of Mexican food culture.

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.