Crispy Mexican Flautas Supreme
Introduction
Flautas, meaning “flutes” in Spanish, are crispy rolled tortillas filled with savory meat or beans and deep-fried to golden perfection. Originating in Northern Mexico, flautas are festive, crunchy, and rich with bold flavors. Served with toppings like crema, queso fresco, salsa, and fresh herbs, they’re a staple in Mexican cuisine that brings joy to family gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Flautas:
• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or beef, or beans for vegetarian option)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Oil for frying
For the Toppings:
• 1 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream thinned with milk)
• 1 cup queso fresco, crumbled
• 1 cup pico de gallo (fresh tomato salsa)
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 cup salsa verde (green tomatillo salsa)
For the Pico de Gallo:
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely diced
• ½ onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste
Instructions & Method
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
• In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper (and cheese if using).
Step 2: Roll the Flautas
• Warm the tortillas slightly so they’re pliable.
• Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling along the center of each tortilla.
• Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
Step 3: Fry the Flautas
• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Fry the flautas in batches, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp (about 3-4 minutes per side).
• Drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Prepare Pico de Gallo
• Mix all pico ingredients in a bowl. Season with lime juice and salt.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
• On a serving plate, pour a generous layer of salsa verde.
• Arrange flautas on top.
• Drizzle with crema.
• Spoon over pico de gallo.
• Sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco and chopped cilantro.
History of Flautas
Flautas trace back to Northern Mexico and the U.S.-Mexico border regions. They are often confused with taquitos, but flautas are generally larger and use flour or corn tortillas. Traditionally, they are a way to use up leftover meats and bring families together during festivities, like Día de los Muertos and Mexican Independence Day.
Benefits
• Protein-rich: Especially when filled with chicken or beef.
• Customizable: Can be made vegetarian or even vegan.
• Festive: Perfect for parties and gatherings.
• Nutritious toppings: Salsa and pico provide vitamins, and cilantro adds antioxidants.
Formation & Variations
• Mini Flautas: Bite-sized for appetizers.
• Air-fried Flautas: For a healthier option.
• Baked Flautas: Crisp them in the oven to reduce oil use.
• Beef or Bean Flautas: Swap chicken for shredded beef or mashed beans.
Nutrition (per serving of 2 flautas with toppings)
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Vitamin C: 20% DV
• Calcium: 15% DV
Conclusion
Mexican flautas are more than just crispy rolls — they’re a cultural symbol of shared meals and vibrant flavors. Their versatility makes them a favorite among cooks and food lovers alike. Whether enjoyed with salsa verde or roja, topped with cool crema and cheese, or spiced up with jalapeños, they never fail to delight.
Flautas Lovers
This dish is beloved by:
• Families during holiday feasts
• Street food fans in Mexico and Southern U.S.
• Party hosts seeking crowd-pleasers
• Foodies craving a crunchy, savory bite