5 Authentic Gorditas Recipes You Must Try

Gorditas, which means "little fat ones," are a delightful staple of Mexican cuisine known for their delightful texture and versatility in fillings. These thick, soft, and slightly puffed corn cakes are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a journey through Mexican culinary heritage. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, these five authentic Gorditas recipes promise to bring a taste of Mexico right to your dining table.

Classic Gorditas de Maíz

Ingredients:

• 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
• 1 ¹⁄₄ cups water
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt
• ¹⁄₄ cup lard or vegetable shortening (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix masa harina with salt. Gradually add water while kneading to form a soft, pliable dough.
2. If using lard or shortening, work it into the dough for a richer flavor.
3. Divide the dough into equal balls. Press each ball between two sheets of plastic wrap to form a thick disc, ensuring the edges are slightly thicker than the middle.
4. Cook on a hot griddle or comal over medium heat, turning once, until both sides are golden and slightly charred.
5. Cut a slit on the side of each gordita and stuff with your preferred filling like refried beans, cheese, or chicharron prensado.

🍏 Note: The traditional way involves using your thumb to create the slit for filling, allowing the gordita to stay intact and seal in the delicious filling.

Gorditas de Nopal

Ingredients:

• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups masa harina
• ³⁄₄ cup water
• ¹⁄₂ cup pureed nopales (cactus)
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt
• Fillings of your choice

Instructions:

1. Mix masa harina, water, pureed nopales, and salt until a dough forms.
2. Follow the same steps as above to form and cook the gorditas.
3. Fill with options like cheese, salsa verde, or seasoned ground beef.

Gorditas de Chicharrón

Ingredients:

• 2 cups masa harina
• 1 1/3 cups water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Cooked, crumbled pork rinds (chicharrón prensado)

Instructions:

1. Combine masa harina, water, and salt to make the dough.
2. Add the pork rinds into the dough for extra flavor and texture.
3. Form, cook, and stuff with your preferred fillings.

Adding chicharrón to the dough gives the gorditas a unique taste and crispiness, perfect for carnivorous diners.

Gorditas de Quelite

Ingredients:

• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups masa harina
• 1 cup water
• ¹⁄₂ cup cooked, pureed quelites (wild greens like purslane or lamb’s quarters)
• Salt to taste
• Optional fillings: beans, cheese, or seasoned vegetables

Instructions:

1. Mix masa harina, pureed quelites, salt, and water into a dough.
2. Shape into gorditas and cook them as previously described.
3. Fill with simple or sophisticated fillings for a vibrant taste experience.

🥦 Note: Quelites are nutrient-rich greens; their inclusion not only adds flavor but also packs in health benefits.

Gorditas de Elote

Ingredients:

• 2 cups masa harina
• 1 cup water
• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh corn kernels
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon baking powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Incorporate masa harina, corn kernels, baking powder, salt, and water into a dough. Add more water if necessary.
2. Form, cook, and fill these corn-packed gorditas with options like cotija cheese, crema, or salsa macha.

These gorditas bring the sweetness of corn directly into the dough, making for a delightful twist on the classic recipe.

These recipes showcase the depth and diversity of Mexican culinary arts through the simple yet versatile Gorditas. Each variant provides a different taste experience, from the earthy and vibrant flavors of quelites to the rich crunch of chicharrón.

Exploring these gorditas not only brings flavors to your table but also opens up a narrative of Mexican culture. They are perfect for gatherings, offering a hands-on culinary experience where everyone can customize their own. The final note here is that these recipes are just a starting point— feel free to experiment with other fillings, toppings, or even your own masa harina blend for a personalized touch.

This culinary journey has taken us through the heart of Mexican tradition, showing how simple ingredients can create meals that are rich in flavor and heritage. Remember, cooking these dishes isn’t just about food; it’s about the stories, the people, and the shared experiences.

Can I use store-bought corn tortillas for Gorditas?

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Although you can make a quick version by toasting and stuffing corn tortillas, true Gorditas are made from masa dough for that authentic texture and taste.

What is the traditional filling for Gorditas?

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Traditional fillings can range from refried beans, cheese, to various meat preparations like chicharrón prensado or carne asada. However, modern variations include vegetarian or even sweet fillings.

Are Gorditas healthy?

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Gorditas made with masa harina are naturally high in niacin, which helps convert food into energy. Fillings can vary in healthiness, but choosing lean meats, vegetables, or beans can keep them nutritious.