Southern Style Tortilla

Ingredients

In this Southern American adaptation of the Mexican tortilla, the traditional corn tortilla is filled with a savory mixture of seasoned meat, vegetables, and spices. The flavors are influenced by Southern American cuisine, incorporating ingredients like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and sweet corn. The tortilla is cooked until golden brown, adding a crispy texture to the dish. This fusion recipe combines the best of both culinary traditions, resulting in a unique and delicious meal. We alse have the original recipe for Tortilla, so you can check it out.

• 4 corn tortillas 4 corn tortillas
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (150g) sweet corn kernels 1 cup (150g) sweet corn kernels
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. 3.
   Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula.
4. 4.
   Stir in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. 5.
   Add the sweet corn kernels to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
7. 7.
   In a separate skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
8. 8.
   Place a corn tortilla in the skillet and cook for about 1 minute on each side, until it becomes slightly crispy.
9. 9.
   Remove the tortilla from the skillet and drain on a paper towel.
10. 10.
    Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas.
11. 11.
    Spoon a generous amount of the ground beef and vegetable mixture onto one half of each tortilla.
12. 12.
    Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the filling.
13. 13.
    Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
14. 14.
    Return the filled tortillas to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
15. 15.
    Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Corn tortillas — To make the tortillas more pliable, you can heat them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side before filling them.
• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken if desired.
• Smoked paprika — If you don't have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or a combination of paprika and a pinch of liquid smoke for a similar flavor.
• Cayenne pepper — Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Add more for a spicier tortilla or omit it for a milder version.
• Cheddar cheese — Feel free to use any other type of cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack or Colby.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with cooked black beans or grilled vegetables.
• Serve the tortillas with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice over the filling before folding the tortillas for a burst of freshness.
• Customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
• If you prefer a softer tortilla, you can skip the second round of frying and serve them after the initial cooking.

Serving advice

Serve the Southern Style Tortillas hot, either as a main course or as a delicious appetizer. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Presentation advice

Arrange the tortillas on a platter, folded in half to showcase the filling. Sprinkle some extra shredded cheese and chopped green onions on top for an appealing presentation.