Soft Cornmeal Taco Shells

Prep: 10 min Cook: 4 min Cuisine: Mexican

Soft cornmeal taco shells offer a crispy yet tender bite, perfect for filling with your favorite toppings. They suit casual meals and Mexican-inspired dishes alike.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 to 3 cups cold water
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 eggs

Instructions

  1. Beat the ingredients until smooth.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Pour about 1/4 cup (small) or 1/3 cup (large) batter onto the pan.
  4. Cook for about 2 minutes, turning once, until golden and cooked through.
  5. Help the batter spread out after pouring by rolling the pan if needed.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother batter, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute half of the cornmeal with masa harina for a more authentic flavor. If the batter is too thick, add a little water until it reaches the desired consistency. Cooking in a well-greased skillet helps prevent sticking. Serve with your favorite fillings from Mexican recipes like Quick Fix Burritos.

Serving Suggestions

These soft cornmeal taco shells are perfect for filling with your choice of proteins, vegetables, or beans. They pair beautifully with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and cheese. Consider serving them alongside Hominy With Chipotle for a complete meal. You can also serve with a side of Bean Dip Ole for a tasty appetizer.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover taco shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their softness and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Soft Cornmeal Taco Shells contains roughly 547 calories, with 13g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1923mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).

547 kcal 27% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13g 26% DV
Total Fat 5.3g 7% DV
Carbs 112.7g 41% DV
Fiber 5g 18% DV
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 1923.4mg 84% DV
Potassium 499.4mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 161.3mg 54% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 39.4mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 0.3mg
Calcium 248.6mg 19% DV
Iron 4.7mg 26% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to cook. Give it a good stir before using, as some separation may occur.

What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

How do I prevent the taco shells from getting soggy?

To keep the taco shells crisp, avoid overfilling them and serve immediately after cooking. If making ahead, store them in a single layer and reheat in a skillet to restore their texture.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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