Easy Tortilla Strips Recipe for Salads and Soups

Introduction to Homemade Crunchy Strips

Crispy tortilla strips are a versatile and easy topping for soups, salads, and more. They add a delightful crunch and can be customized with different seasonings to fit any flavor profile. Making your own is simple, and with a few pantry staples, you can create these at home in no time. These homemade strips are ideal for dishes like taco salads or chicken tortilla soup and even make a great snack on their own.

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Strips

To make these easy toppings, you’ll need a few basic ingredients, many of which you probably already have:

6-8 corn or flour tortillas: Cut into strips.
Vegetable or olive oil: For frying or lightly brushing if you choose the baking method.
Salt: For seasoning the strips immediately after cooking.
Optional spices: Chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Using simple ingredients keeps the flavor authentic, but feel free to get creative with the spices you add!

Choosing the Best Tortillas

The type of tortillas you select will impact the taste and texture of the strips. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Corn Tortillas: These create a traditional, crunchy texture with a slightly earthy flavor. They’re perfect for authentic Mexican dishes and have a satisfying snap when you bite into them.
Flour Tortillas: These make for lighter, slightly chewier strips with a more neutral flavor. They work well in a variety of dishes, adding a nice crunch without overpowering other ingredients.

Choosing between corn and flour will depend on your taste preferences and the dish you’re planning to serve them with. Either way, you’ll end up with a delicious topping that enhances your meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here are two easy methods for making your own crispy strips – baking and frying. Both are simple and yield excellent results, so choose whichever fits your needs best.

Baking Option

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is essential for even baking.
Slice the Tortillas: Stack the tortillas and cut them into 1/4-inch-wide strips. This width ensures they’re thin enough to crisp up nicely.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Lay the strips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking.
Brush with Oil: Lightly brush the strips with vegetable or olive oil, coating each side. This step is key to achieving a crispy texture.
Season: Sprinkle salt and any other seasonings you desire over the strips.
Bake: Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. They’re ready when they turn golden and crispy.
Cool and Serve: Allow the strips to cool on the baking sheet, then serve with your favorite salad, soup, or as a crunchy snack.

Frying Option

Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet, filling it about 1/4 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium until it shimmers. Test by placing a small piece of tortilla in the oil – it should sizzle upon contact.
Cut the Tortillas: Slice the tortillas into thin strips as described above.
Fry the Strips: Carefully add the strips to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 1-2 minutes, or until they’re golden brown.
Drain and Season: Remove the strips with a slotted spoon, placing them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While still warm, sprinkle them with salt and any spices you like.
Cool Slightly Before Serving: Let the strips cool for a few minutes before serving. They’ll continue to crisp up as they cool.

For more ideas on tasty toppings, check out Cheesy Taco Casserole with Fritos, which also features delicious crunchy toppings.

Seasoning Ideas for Flavorful Tortilla Strips

Here are some seasoning ideas to enhance the flavor of your homemade strips:

Chili Lime: Add chili powder and a bit of lime zest before baking or frying. This combination is perfect for a zesty kick.
Garlic Parmesan: Sprinkle garlic powder and Parmesan cheese over the strips while they’re still warm. This adds a savory twist, ideal for topping salads.
Cinnamon Sugar: For a sweet version, toss with cinnamon sugar before baking. These make a tasty snack or dessert topping.
Smoky Chipotle: Mix in smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky flavor that complements soups.

These variations make it easy to match your toppings with the flavor profile of your dish. Experiment with different spices to find your favorite combination!

Perfect Pairings for Crunchy Tortilla Strips

Crispy tortilla strips work well in a variety of dishes. Here are some great ways to use them:

Taco Salad: Add them to a taco salad for a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the freshness of lettuce, tomatoes, and other veggies.
Chicken Tortilla Soup: Top a bowl of chicken tortilla soup with strips to enhance the texture and add an authentic touch.
Chili: Use them as a garnish for chili, adding a delightful crunch that contrasts with the warm, hearty flavors.
Avocado Toast: For a unique twist, sprinkle them over avocado toast to add extra texture and flavor.

For more ideas, check out Sour Cream Noodle Bake, another delicious dish that could benefit from a crunchy topping.

Storage Tips to Maintain Tortilla Strips Freshness

To keep your crispy strips fresh and ready to use, follow these simple storage tips:

Airtight Container: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crispy for up to a week.
Re-Crisp if Necessary: If they begin to soften, simply place them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
Avoid Refrigeration: Refrigeration can make them soggy, so it’s best to store them at room temperature.

Proper storage ensures your strips will be ready to add to meals whenever you need them, keeping their texture and flavor intact.

FAQ About Tortilla Strips

Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air frying is a healthier alternative and works well. Set your air fryer to 350°F and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Can I use flavored tortillas?
Yes, flavored tortillas like spinach or tomato can add color and extra flavor to your strips.
How can I keep the strips crunchy in soup?
Add the strips just before serving to maintain their crispiness. For the best results, serve them on the side so they can be added individually.
Are corn or flour tortillas better?
Corn tortillas are traditional and add a satisfying crunch, while flour tortillas are softer and lighter. Choose based on the texture you prefer.
How do I store leftover tortilla strips?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh and crispy for up to a week.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they’re great for meal prep! Store in an airtight container, and they’ll be ready whenever you need them.
Do I need oil if I’m baking?
A light brush of oil is recommended for the best crispy texture, but you can omit it if you prefer a lighter option.
What’s the best way to cut tortillas for strips?
Stack the tortillas and use a sharp knife to slice them into thin, even strips. This ensures they cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

Homemade tortilla strips are a quick, easy, and delicious way to elevate your favorite dishes. Whether you’re topping a salad, garnishing a soup, or simply enjoying them as a snack, these crunchy strips are endlessly customizable. Experiment with different seasonings, and find the perfect pairing for all your meals. For more recipes and cooking inspiration, visit Jen Recipes.