Classic Gorditas
These thick, savory corn cakes are a beloved Mexican street food, perfect for a satisfying snack or light meal. Made from masa harina, they are pan-fried until golden and often split open to be filled with various ingredients.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 45 min
- Serves
- 4
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Per serving
- 489 kcal
Allergen information: may contain milk. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
gorditas
- 2 cupmasa harina
- 1.75 cupwarm water
- 0.5 tspsalt
for frying
- 0.5 cupvegetable oil
filling
- 0.5 cuprefried beans(optional)
- 0.5 cupshredded cheese(optional)
garnish
- 0.25 cupsalsa(optional)
Equipment
tortilla press · large skillet · paper towels · large bowl · knife
The method
Step by step
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the masa harina, warm water, and salt. Mix thoroughly until a soft, pliable dough forms.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: The dough should be firm enough to handle but not crumbly. Add a little more water if it's too dry, or a little more masa if it's too wet.
- 2
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it between your palms or using a tortilla press to form a thick disc, about 1/2 inch thick and 3-4 inches in diameter.
About 7 min
Cook’s note: Cover the formed gorditas with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you prepare the others.
- 3
Heat the vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a small piece of dough is dropped in, but not smoking.
- 4
Carefully place a few gorditas into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
About 15 min
Cook’s note: Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. The outside should be crispy and the inside cooked.
- 5
Remove the cooked gorditas from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Keep them warm in a tortilla warmer or covered with a clean towel while you cook the remaining gorditas.
- 6
Once all gorditas are cooked, carefully cut a slit along one side of each gordita to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: A small, sharp paring knife works best for this step.
- 7
Fill the gordita pockets with your desired fillings, such as refried beans, shredded cheese, or salsa. Serve immediately.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: You can also add cooked meats like shredded chicken or pork, or other vegetables.
Per serving
Nutrition
- Calories
- 489.4kcal
- Protein
- 6.7g
- Carbs
- 48.9g
- Fat
- 30.5g
- Fibre
- 5.9g
- Sugar
- 1.1g
Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.
Keep it good
Store leftover gorditas in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheat gorditas in a dry skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in a microwave.
More recipes
All recipeslunch
Tuna and White Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines flaky tuna with creamy cannellini beans and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette. It's a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
15 minsnack
Unsweetened Almond Butter Energy Balls
These simple energy balls are packed with healthy fats and fiber, making them a perfect grab-and-go snack. Made with unsweetened almond butter, oats, and chia seeds, they provide sustained energy without added sugar. They are quick to prepare and require no baking.
45 min 141 kcaldinner
Steak Frites
This classic French bistro dish features perfectly seared steak served alongside crispy homemade fries. The key is to achieve a flavorful crust on the steak and ensure the fries are golden and tender inside. A simple pan sauce brings it all together for a satisfying meal.
1 hr 1,336 kcalmain course
Pad Prik Gaeng
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this quick and spicy Pad Prik Gaeng. Tender chicken and crisp green beans are stir-fried in a fiery red curry paste, balanced with aromatic kaffir lime and sweet palm sugar. This satisfying dish delivers a perfect blend of heat and umami, ideal for a weeknight meal.
35 min 312 kcalappetizer
Cig Kofte (Vegan)
Experience the vibrant flavors of Turkey with this vegan Cig Kofte, a spicy and aromatic appetizer crafted from fine bulgur. This traditional dish, bursting with rich tomato and red pepper pastes, fresh herbs, and a hint of pomegranate molasses, offers a delightful textural contrast and a satisfying kick. Perfect for sharing, these savory bites are typically enjoyed wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves.
1 hr 25 minlunch
Vegetarian Egg Fried Rice
This quick and easy vegetarian egg fried rice is a perfect weeknight meal. It uses day-old rice, scrambled eggs, and a colorful mix of vegetables for a satisfying dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's a great way to use up leftover rice.
25 min 457 kcalsnack
Sugar-Free Energy Bars
These wholesome energy bars are packed with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, providing a satisfying and sustained energy boost without added sugars. They are perfect for a quick snack or pre-workout fuel.
1 hr 40 min 223 kcal