Crispy Baked Corn Tortilla Strips: The Perfect Soup Topping
Corn tortilla strips are a staple topping for many Mexican soups, adding a delightful crunch and subtle corn flavor that complements the rich and savory broth. While fried tortilla strips are a classic choice, baking offers a healthier and equally delicious alternative. This method provides the same satisfying crispiness without the added oil and mess. This blog post will guide you through the simple steps of making perfectly baked corn tortilla strips, along with tips for customization and storage.
Why Bake Your Tortilla Strips?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore why baking is an excellent option for making tortilla strips:
* **Healthier:** Baking significantly reduces the amount of fat compared to frying. This is a great way to enjoy a crunchy topping without the guilt.
* **Less Mess:** Say goodbye to splattering oil and greasy cleanup. Baking is a much cleaner process.
* **Easy:** Baking tortilla strips is incredibly simple and requires minimal effort. You can easily prepare a large batch in advance.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding a touch of spice or herbs to complement your soup.
* **Control:** You have more control over the level of crispiness when baking, ensuring they’re perfectly golden brown and crunchy.
The Ultimate Baked Corn Tortilla Strips Recipe
This recipe yields crispy and flavorful tortilla strips that are perfect for topping tortilla soup, chicken tortilla soup, pozole, or any other Mexican soup you enjoy.
Ingredients:
* 12 corn tortillas (6-inch diameter is ideal)
* 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (or cooking spray)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
* Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, or other spices of your choice.
Equipment:
* Large baking sheet
* Pizza cutter or sharp knife
* Mixing bowl (optional, for tossing with oil)
Instructions:
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the tortillas to crisp up nicely without burning.
2. **Prepare Tortillas:** Stack the corn tortillas on a cutting board. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the tortillas into strips approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide. The width of the strips is a matter of preference. Thinner strips will be crispier, while wider strips will have a bit more chew.
3. **Oil and Season (Optional):** In a mixing bowl, toss the tortilla strips with olive oil or avocado oil and salt. Make sure the strips are lightly coated with oil, as this helps them crisp up in the oven. If you don’t have a mixing bowl, you can drizzle the oil over the strips directly on the baking sheet.
* **Alternative Method (No Mixing Bowl):** Spread the tortilla strips in a single layer on the baking sheet. Lightly spray them with cooking spray. Then sprinkle with salt and any desired spices.
4. **Arrange on Baking Sheet:** Spread the tortilla strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this will prevent the strips from crisping up properly. If necessary, use two baking sheets or bake in batches.
5. **Bake:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the tortilla strips are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly. The baking time will vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the strips.
6. **Cool:** Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the tortilla strips cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, they will become even crispier.
7. **Serve:** Once cooled, the baked corn tortilla strips are ready to serve as a topping for your favorite Mexican soups. They are also delicious as a snack on their own, or served with dips like guacamole or salsa.
Tips for Perfect Baked Tortilla Strips
* **Use Fresh Tortillas:** While you can use slightly stale tortillas, fresh tortillas tend to yield the best results. They are more pliable and less likely to break when cutting.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** Overcrowding will steam the tortillas rather than crisping them. Ensure there is ample space between the strips for air to circulate.
* **Watch Carefully:** Tortilla strips can go from golden brown to burnt very quickly. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
* **Experiment with Seasonings:** Get creative with your seasonings! Try adding chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
* **Use Quality Oil:** Choose a good quality olive oil or avocado oil for the best flavor and health benefits. Avoid using vegetable oils with a high smoke point.
* **Adjust Baking Time:** Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Start checking for doneness around 8 minutes and adjust accordingly.
* **Crispier Strips:** For extra crispy strips, try flipping them halfway through the baking time.
* **Even Cooking:** Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.
* **Salt is Key:** Don’t skimp on the salt! Salt enhances the flavor of the tortillas and helps them crisp up.
* **Consider Lime:** A squeeze of lime juice after baking can add a bright, citrusy flavor.
Variations and Add-Ins
* **Spicy Tortilla Strips:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the oil before tossing the tortilla strips.
* **Garlic Herb Tortilla Strips:** Mix garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried parsley with the oil before tossing.
* **Lime and Chili Tortilla Strips:** After baking, sprinkle the tortilla strips with lime zest and chili powder.
* **Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Strips:** For a sweet and savory twist, sprinkle the baked tortilla strips with cinnamon sugar. These are great for topping sweet potato soup or chili.
* **Parmesan Tortilla Strips:** Toss the tortilla strips with grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
* **Everything Bagel Seasoning:** Sprinkle Everything Bagel seasoning on the tortilla strips before baking for a savory and flavorful topping.
Serving Suggestions
Baked corn tortilla strips are the perfect topping for a variety of Mexican soups, including:
* **Tortilla Soup:** A classic pairing! The crispy strips add texture and flavor to the rich tomato-based broth.
* **Chicken Tortilla Soup:** Similar to tortilla soup, but with shredded chicken for added protein.
* **Pozole:** A traditional Mexican stew made with hominy and meat. Tortilla strips add a satisfying crunch.
* **Sopa de Frijoles:** A hearty bean soup that benefits from the added texture of tortilla strips.
* **Caldo de Res:** A flavorful beef soup that is often served with rice and tortillas.
Beyond soups, baked tortilla strips can also be used as:
* **Salad Topping:** Add a crunchy element to your favorite salads.
* **Snack:** Enjoy them on their own or with dips like guacamole, salsa, or queso.
* **Garnish:** Use them to garnish tacos, enchiladas, or other Mexican dishes.
Storage Instructions
To keep your baked corn tortilla strips fresh and crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will typically last for 3-5 days. For optimal freshness, consider adding a desiccant packet to the container to absorb any moisture. Do not refrigerate, as this will cause them to become soft and stale.
**Longer Storage:** For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled tortilla strips. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their crispness.
Troubleshooting
* **Tortilla Strips Not Crispy:** Make sure the tortilla strips are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet and are not overcrowded. Also, ensure your oven is properly preheated and that you are baking them long enough. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.
* **Tortilla Strips Burning:** Reduce the oven temperature slightly or shorten the baking time. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
* **Tortilla Strips Sticking to Baking Sheet:** Use a non-stick baking sheet or line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
* **Tortilla Strips Tasting Bland:** Make sure you are using enough salt and experiment with different seasonings to enhance the flavor.
* **Tortillas Breaking When Cutting:** Use fresh tortillas that are more pliable. You can also warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave to make them easier to cut.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
*Serving size: Approximately 1/4 cup
*Calories: 50-70
*Fat: 2-4g
*Saturated Fat: 0.5g
*Cholesterol: 0mg
*Sodium: 100-200mg (depending on salt added)
*Carbohydrates: 8-10g
*Fiber: 1-2g
*Sugar: 0g
*Protein: 1g
*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.
Conclusion
Baking corn tortilla strips is a simple and healthy way to add a delicious crunch to your favorite Mexican soups. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a satisfying topping that will elevate your culinary creations. Experiment with different seasonings and serving suggestions to find your perfect combination. So, next time you’re craving tortilla soup, skip the store-bought chips and try making your own baked tortilla strips. You’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious they are!
Enjoy your homemade crispy baked corn tortilla strips!