Crispy tortilla chips are a fun snack that everyone loves! They’re made from corn tortillas, baked or fried until golden and crunchy. Perfect for dipping!
These chips are the life of any party—serve them with salsa or guacamole, and you’ll keep everyone happy. I could munch on these all day! 😄
I enjoy making a big bowl of chips to share while watching a movie. They’re easy to whip up, and the crunch is super satisfying. You can’t go wrong with these!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Look for fresh corn tortillas for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, flour tortillas work too, but they’ll change the texture. Some even enjoy using whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist!
Vegetable Oil: I use vegetable oil for frying, but you could switch it up with canola oil or peanut oil. If you want a lighter option, consider baking the chips instead—just brush them with oil before baking.
Salt: Adjust the salt to your taste! Adding spices like garlic powder or chili powder while they’re still warm can give your chips a unique flavor boost.
How Can I Get My Chips Extra Crispy?
For perfectly crispy tortilla chips, follow these tips:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough. If it’s too cool, the chips will absorb more oil and become soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Frying in small batches ensures they cook evenly and get that satisfying crunch.
- Let them cool fully on paper towels after frying. This step helps them stay crisp longer.
By following these tips, you’ll have amazing homemade tortilla chips that everyone will love! Enjoy with your favorite dips for the best snack experience.
Homemade Tortilla Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups vegetable oil (or any neutral frying oil)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time required is about 15–20 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the tortillas and heating the oil, and then about 5–10 minutes for frying them to crispy perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tortillas:
Start by stacking the corn tortillas on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice them into 6 to 8 triangular wedges. Make sure to cut them evenly for uniform cooking.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in the vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature; it should reach about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a piece of tortilla in the oil; if it bubbles up around it, you’re ready to go!
3. Fry the Chips:
Carefully add the tortilla wedges to the hot oil in small batches—don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry them until they are golden and crispy, about 1-2 minutes on each side. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to flip them and to remove them once cooked.
4. Drain Excess Oil:
As you take the chips out, place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. This will help absorb excess oil and keep them from getting soggy.
5. Season the Chips:
While the chips are still warm, sprinkle them with salt. Adjust the amount according to your taste!
6. Cool and Serve:
Allow the chips to cool completely on the paper towels which helps them achieve maximum crispiness. Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or your favorite dip. If you like, squeeze some fresh lime juice over them for an extra zing!
Enjoy!
Your homemade tortilla chips are ready to be crunchy, delightful, and devoured!
Can I Use Baked Tortilla Chips Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can bake the tortilla wedges instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the wedges on a baking sheet, and lightly brush them with oil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crisp.
What Oil Is Best for Frying Tortilla Chips?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil all work well for frying tortilla chips due to their high smoke points. Avoid using olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and can burn quickly.
How Do I Store Leftover Tortilla Chips?
Store any leftover tortilla chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days. If they become a bit stale, you can pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to crisp them up again.
Can I Spice Up My Tortilla Chips?
Yes! You can add various seasonings after frying, such as garlic powder, chili powder, or even a dash of cayenne for some heat. Mix your seasoning with the salt before sprinkling it on for maximum flavor!
