When it comes to Mexican cuisine, a “flauta plate” truly delights with the comforting flavors of traditional Mexican ingredients wrapped in a crispy, golden tortilla. Flautas, which means “flutes” in Spanish, get their name because of their rolled, cylindrical shape that resembles a musical flute. Typically, they contain seasoned meat and sometimes cheese. Afterward, you deep-fry the flautas until crunchy and serve them with an array of accompaniments to enhance the flavors. Furthermore, flautas are often confused with taquitos—another type of rolled tortilla dish—but flautas are usually longer and made with flour tortillas, while taquitos are shorter and often made with corn tortillas. For more on the difference between these two, check out our article on the difference between taquitos and flautas.
Introduction to the Flauta Plate
What is a Flauta Plate?
A flauta plate offers a popular Mexican dish consisting of flautas, rolled tortillas filled with savory ingredients like chicken, beef, or cheese, and then fried to crispy perfection. Additionally, the flautas usually come with various accompaniments, such as guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and shredded lettuce, creating a complete and satisfying meal. In many cases, people mistake flautas for taquitos—another type of rolled tortilla dish—but flautas are usually longer and made with flour tortillas, while taquitos are shorter and often made with corn tortillas.
Historical Background of Flautas in Mexican Cuisine
The origins of flautas trace back to Mexican street food, where quick, flavorful, and easy-to-eat dishes remain staples. Over time, flautas have evolved and gained popularity not only in Mexico but also in various parts of the world, especially in the southwestern United States. As a result, people cherish the dish for its simplicity, versatility, and the delightful contrast between the crispy tortilla and the soft, savory filling.
Ingredients for a Flauta Plate
Essential Ingredients
Creating a flauta plate involves several essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the flavor and texture of the dish:
- Tortillas:
- Flour Tortillas: Commonly used for flautas, they are soft, pliable, and become wonderfully crispy when fried. The flour tortilla’s mild flavor allows the filling and accompaniments to shine.
- Possible Substitutions: Corn tortillas can work for a gluten-free version, though people more commonly use them in taquitos.
- Filling:
- Shredded Chicken: The most traditional filling, shredded chicken, often carries seasoning with spices like cumin, garlic, and chili powder. It’s tender and absorbs flavors well. If you’re looking to elevate the flavor of your chicken, our Ultimate Guide to Making Chicken Alfredo Taste Better offers tips that can also apply to enhancing chicken for flautas.
- Possible Substitutions: Shredded beef, pork (if dietary restrictions allow), or even a vegetarian option like black beans or mashed potatoes can be used.
- Cheese:
- Queso Fresco or Monterey Jack: These cheeses often get added for extra creaminess. Queso fresco crumbles easily and has a slightly tangy flavor, while Monterey Jack melts smoothly.
- Possible Substitutions: Cheddar or a blend of Mexican cheeses also work well.
- Oil:
- Vegetable or Canola Oil: Used for frying, these oils have a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making them ideal for achieving that perfect crispiness.
- Possible Substitutions: Sunflower or peanut oil can serve as alternatives if preferred.
Optional Ingredients and Substitutions
- Spices:
- Cumin, Garlic Powder, Chili Powder: These spices add depth and warmth to the filling. Adjust to taste based on preference for heat and flavor.
- Possible Substitutions: Smoked paprika or chipotle powder can add a smoky flavor.
- Vegetables:
- Onions and Peppers: Sautéed onions and bell peppers enhance the filling with extra flavor and texture.
- Possible Substitutions: Zucchini or corn can provide a different twist.
- Accompaniments:
- Guacamole: Adds a creamy, rich texture to contrast the crunch of the flautas.
- Sour Cream: Provides a cooling effect, balancing the spices.
- Salsa: Brings acidity and freshness, brightening up the dish.
- Shredded Lettuce and Tomatoes: Add a fresh, crisp element that complements the richness of the fried tortillas.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing a Flauta Plate
For a more detailed recipe, check out our Perfect Flautas Recipe.
Preparing the Filling
- Cook the Protein:
- If using chicken, boil or roast chicken breasts until fully cooked. Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks. For beef, slow-cook a chuck roast until tender and shred. If using black beans, season them with cumin, garlic, and chili powder.
- Season the Filling:
- In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of oil and sauté onions and peppers (if using) until softened. Next, add the shredded chicken (or alternative protein) and season with cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and heated through. For a cheesy filling, add the cheese and mix until melted and incorporated.
Assembling the Flautas
- Prepare the Tortillas:
- First, warm the tortillas in a microwave or on a skillet for a few seconds to make them pliable. This step prevents the tortillas from cracking when rolled.
- Fill and Roll:
- Place about two tablespoons of filling along one edge of each tortilla. Then, tightly roll the tortilla around the filling, securing it with a toothpick if necessary to prevent unrolling during frying.
Cooking the Flautas
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat. Importantly, ensure the oil reaches 350°F for optimal frying.
- Fry the Flautas:
- Carefully place the rolled flautas seam-side down in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary. Fry each flauta for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Afterward, remove the flautas and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Keep Warm:
- If frying in batches, keep the cooked flautas warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until all are finished.
Preparing the Accompaniments
- Guacamole:
- Mash ripe avocados with lime juice, salt, pepper, and diced onions and tomatoes for a simple, flavorful guacamole.
- Salsa:
- Prepare a fresh salsa using diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and salt. Moreover, adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
- Sour Cream:
- Serve the sour cream as is, or mix in a bit of lime juice and chopped cilantro for an extra tangy flavor.
- Shredded Lettuce and Tomatoes:
- Shred crisp lettuce and slice tomatoes to serve alongside the flautas, adding a fresh and crunchy contrast to the dish.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Flauta Plate
Ensuring Crispy Flautas
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; if it’s too cool, the flautas will absorb too much oil and become greasy rather than crispy.
- Drain Properly: After frying, drain the flautas on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil, ensuring they remain crispy.
Flavor Enhancements
- Spice Blends: Create your spice blend for the filling, adjusting the levels of cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder to suit your taste.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses or add a spicy cheese like pepper jack for a little kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Immediately: Flautas taste best when served fresh and hot, with the tortillas still crisp.
- Customize the Accompaniments: Tailor the sides to your taste—add a side of refried beans or Mexican rice for a more filling meal.
Pairing Suggestions for a Flauta Plate
Beverage Pairings
- Agua Fresca: A traditional Mexican drink made from fresh fruit, water, and sugar. Flavors like tamarind, hibiscus, or horchata complement the flautas well.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or a citrusy soda can balance the richness of the flautas.
Side Dishes
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful side dish made with rice, tomatoes, garlic, and onions.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a hearty, protein-rich complement to the flautas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I bake the flautas instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake flautas for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 425°F, brush the rolled flautas with oil, and bake them on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
2. What other fillings can I use for flautas?
You can experiment with a variety of fillings such as shredded beef, pork, cheese, or vegetarian options like beans, potatoes, or sautéed vegetables.
3. How can I store leftover flautas?
Store leftover flautas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, to maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven.
4. What is the difference between flautas and taquitos?
Generally, people make flautas with flour tortillas and they are longer, while taquitos typically use corn tortillas and are shorter.
5. Can I make flautas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the flautas ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying, or freeze them for longer storage. Finally, fry them just before serving.
Conclusion
A flauta plate provides more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Mexican culinary traditions. The crispy, golden flautas filled with flavorful ingredients and served with a variety of fresh, zesty accompaniments make for a dish that is both comforting and versatile. Whether you’re enjoying them for a casual family dinner or serving them at a gathering, flautas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Moreover, the beauty of a flauta plate lies in its simplicity and adaptability, allowing you to experiment with different fillings, spices, and accompaniments to create your perfect version.