Spicy Puerco Taquito

Talk about the perfect party pleaser, and so much better than those packaged frozen brands! Spicy Pork Taquitos are such a hit I’ve had requests for them several times.  See how easy they are to make and serve them up at your next party along with your favorite dips.  I use smoked pork ribs for these, but you don’t want to limit yourself.  Trade out the meat and even the cheese if you prefer something different. Just use the imagination. This will make 2 to 2 ½ dozen taquitos.

 4 Cups shredded pork

¼ cup chili powder
1 ½ tsp. red pepper
3 cloves crushed garlic
1 3 oz. can green chilies
1 16 oz. Package Mexican Blend Shredded Cheese
24-30 corn tortillas
Canola cooking spray
Canola oil

Preheat oven to 350

In a large bowl mix meat and next four ingredients together blending very well.  Set bowl aside.

The tortillas will need to be softened so they will roll easily.  Typically this is done by placing the shell in hot oil about 15 seconds on each side.  To me this makes them too hot to work with, and leaves them drenched in oil.  So I prefer to use my breakfast griddle.  Set the temperature to the highest level.  Brush tortilla with a small amount of canola oil and heat three tortillas at a time about 30 seconds on each side.  You must roll the taquito while the shell is still hot so don’t get too far ahead of yourself.

Once your shell is ready place about 1 tablespoon of cheese and 2 tablespoons of meat 1 inch from the edge.  Carefully fold he very edge over the meat and gently roll the taquito as tightly as you can to the very end.  Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be perfect.  It’s more important to be careful and not tear the shell.  Place the taquitos on a baking pan (jelly roll pans work best) coated with cook spray.  Place end side down and as close together as possible.  Continue rolling until you have used all of the filling.   Spray the top with cooking spray to get a perfect shell.

Cook for 20 minutes or until taquitos are nice and crisp with a golden brown color.  Turn broiler on for 30 seconds if necessary to complete the process.  Sever with your favorite dip such as Fr. Onion, Guacamole, Queso of Salsa