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Gorditas

Gorditas are a simple, tasty Mexican street food made with corn masa and filled with various ingredients. This recipe offers easy steps for creating classic gorditas at home, perfect for any meal of the day.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 gorditas
Course: Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups corn flour (like Maseca brand) Use masa harina for a gluten-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour Can be swapped for a gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 1.5 tablespoons kosher or sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or shortening Plus more for cooking.
  • 3-4 cups warm water Adjust as needed for dough consistency.
Filling Ideas
  • Beans, meats, chorizo and potatoes, queso fresco, or veggies Various options for fillings.

Method
 

Preparation of Dough
  1. In a large bowl, mix the corn flour, all purpose flour, salt, oil, and 3 cups of warm water. Mix with your hands until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. If it feels dry, add more water a tablespoon at a time. Cover and let the dough rest for 20 minutes.
Shaping the Gorditas
  1. Divide the dough into balls, about 95-100 grams each. Keep them covered with a damp towel so they do not dry out. Place one ball between a cut-open plastic bag, parchment, or wax paper. Press using a tortilla press or a skillet until you have a 5-inch round, about 0.25-inch thick. Transfer to a parchment-lined sheet pan and repeat.
Cooking the Gorditas
  1. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat (no oil). Cook the gorditas for 3-4 minutes per side, until light brown spots form and the gordita starts to puff slightly in the center.
  2. For Air Fryer Method, lightly brush both sides of each gordita with oil and air fry at 375F (190C) for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway. For Skillet Method, lightly brush both sides with oil and return to a skillet over medium heat, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side until fully cooked and lightly crisp.
Creating Filling
  1. While still warm, carefully cut a slit along the side of each gordita to create a pocket without cutting all the way through.
  2. Stuff with your choice of fillings (beans, meats, chorizo, potatoes, queso fresco, or veggies) and serve warm.

Notes

Gorditas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For a healthier version, opt for fillings high in protein and fiber.