Tacos Ahogados

Introduction

Tacos Ahogados, or "drowned tacos," are a beloved Mexican dish known for their rich flavors and comforting nature. These tacos are typically filled with a variety of ingredients and then smothered in a spicy tomato sauce, which is where they get their unique name. Originating from Guadalajara, this dish reflects the deep culinary traditions of the Jalisco region, bringing together a fusion of flavors and textures that are certain to delight any food lover.

Ingredients

• Corn Tortillas
• Shredded Beef
• Tomatoes
• Onions
• Garlic
• Jalapeños
• Cumin
• Oregano
• Bay Leaves
• Chicken Broth
• Vegetable Oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Cilantro (optional for garnish)
• Lime (optional for garnish)

Preparation

Preparing the Sauce

Begin by roughly chopping the tomatoes and onions. In a blender, combine the chopped tomatoes, onions, and garlic cloves. Blend until smooth to create a base for your sauce.

Cooking the Sauce

In a large saucepan, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the blended tomato mixture to the pan and stir in the jalapeños, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the bay leaves and allow the sauce to simmer for about 20 minutes until it thickens. Occasionally stir the sauce to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Preparing the Tacos

While the sauce simmers, heat the corn tortillas on a skillet or over an open flame to make them pliable. Fill each tortilla with a generous portion of shredded beef and roll them tightly to form tacos.

Cooking Process

In a separate pan, heat a bit of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the rolled tacos seam-side down into the pan and fry them until they are golden and crispy on the outside. This should take about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once done, remove them and set them aside.

Next, dip each crispy taco into the simmered sauce, ensuring they are completely covered or "drowned" in the richness of the sauce. Place the drowned tacos onto a serving platter.

Enjoying Tacos Ahogados

Tacos Ahogados are best enjoyed while hot. Serve them with optional garnishes of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added freshness and tanginess. The combination of the crispy taco shell with the tender shredded beef and the spicy, flavorful sauce creates an unforgettable taste experience.

For accompaniment, a refreshing beverage such as a chilled Mexican beer or a vibrant horchata can complement the spicy flavors of the tacos. Whether you're sharing with family or friends, these tacos are sure to be a hit and carry the spirit of Mexican culinary tradition.

To ensure perfect timing when cooking and serving, remember to check your cooking timer frequently to maintain the ideal texture and flavor of every component.