Taquitos de Picadillo

Taquitos de Picadillo are a classic Mexican comfort food, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. These crispy rolled tacos are filled with a savory and flavorful ground beef and potato mixture, seasoned with traditional spices.

Ingredients:

For the Picadillo Filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 2 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup water or beef broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Taquitos:

• 12-15 small corn tortillas
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Toothpicks (optional)

Toppings (optional):

• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Shredded lettuce
• Queso fresco

• Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Picadillo Filling:
     • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
     • Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
     • Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for 5 minutes.
     • Add the chopped tomato, tomato sauce, water or broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
     • Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  2. Assemble the Taquitos:
     • Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable (use a microwave or a hot skillet).
     • Place 2-3 tablespoons of the Picadillo filling on one edge of a tortilla, then roll it tightly. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
     • Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
  3. Fry the Taquitos:
     • Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
     • Carefully place the rolled taquitos seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry until golden and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes.
     • Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  4. Serve:
     • Arrange the taquitos on a plate and top with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, lettuce, and queso fresco, if desired.