These Leftover Smoked Brisket Taquitos are a crispy, cheesy delight that perfectly combines smoky brisket with spicy jalapeños and melty pepper jack cheese. Wrapped tightly in a golden-brown corn tortilla, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of rich, savory flavor. Not only are these taquitos a great way to reinvent your BBQ leftovers, but they’re also an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. Serve them with guacamole, salsa, or queso for the ultimate dipping experience. Whether for a family dinner or a game-day gathering, these brisket taquitos are sure to be a hit!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup leftover smoked brisket, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
- 1 onion, sliced into strips
- 2 fresh jalapeños, cored and sliced
- 1 can refried beans (recommend Rosarita Traditional)
- 4 oz pepper jack cheese, finely shredded
- 10-12 corn tortillas
- Canola oil (about 3-4 quarts for deep frying)
Directions:
- Preheat Oil: In a 6-8 quart heavy pot, preheat about 3-4 quarts of canola oil on medium heat while prepping other ingredients.
- Prepare Filling:
- Empty the can of refried beans into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat. Season with cumin or salsa if desired. Once hot, lower the heat to simmer.
- Slice the onion and jalapeños into strips about 1-2 inches long.
- Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the onions and peppers, sautéing until soft and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Add the chopped brisket to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes, mixing thoroughly.
- Grate the cheese and set aside.
- Heat Tortillas: To prevent cracking, heat each corn tortilla in the microwave for about 15 seconds until soft and flexible.
- Assemble Taquitos:
- Spread a small spoonful of refried beans in a line across the heated tortilla.
- Add a tablespoon of the brisket mixture on top, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- Tightly roll the tortilla from one side, securing it with a toothpick. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.
- Fry Taquitos:
- Increase the heat of the oil to medium-high until it reaches 375°F.
- Fry 4-5 taquitos at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with guacamole, salsa, or queso.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 200 kcal per taquito | Servings: 10 taquitos
A Culinary Fusion Rooted in Tradition
Taquitos, also known as flautas in some regions, are a staple of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Traditionally made with corn tortillas rolled around a savory filling and then fried until crispy, taquitos are loved for their crunch and flavorful interiors. The filling possibilities are endless, ranging from shredded chicken and beef to beans and cheese. However, the use of smoked brisket is a modern twist that marries two beloved culinary traditions: the Mexican taquito and the American barbecue.
Brisket, especially when smoked to perfection, is a staple in Texas barbecue culture. It’s known for its deep, smoky flavor, juicy texture, and tender bite. Combining this iconic barbecue meat with the crispy, snackable form of a taquito creates a unique fusion that celebrates both Mexican and Texan culinary heritage. It’s no wonder that smoked brisket taquitos are becoming increasingly popular across the United States.
A Symphony of Smoky, Spicy, and Cheesy Goodness
One of the most delightful aspects of smoked brisket taquitos is their complex flavor profile. The star of the show is undoubtedly the smoked brisket. Its deep, rich smokiness, enhanced by the barbecue rub and hours spent in the smoker, brings an unparalleled depth to the filling. This smoky essence is perfectly complemented by sautéed onions and jalapeños, which add a touch of sweetness and a spicy kick, respectively.
To balance out the bold flavors, creamy refried beans act as a binder, adding a smooth, velvety texture to each bite. Meanwhile, shredded pepper jack cheese melts beautifully within the rolled tortillas, bringing a touch of creaminess and a slight peppery zest. The crispy corn tortilla shell ties it all together, delivering that satisfying crunch with every bite. When dipped in salsa, guacamole, or queso, these taquitos achieve the perfect harmony of smoky, spicy, creamy, and crunchy.
Why Use Leftover Smoked Brisket?
There’s something special about leftover smoked brisket. After spending hours in the smoker, the meat develops an intense, robust flavor that continues to evolve as it rests. Using leftovers not only prevents food waste but also allows you to enjoy that complex flavor in a new, exciting way.
Repurposing leftovers is a smart approach to home cooking. It saves time and money while challenging you to get creative in the kitchen. Instead of simply reheating leftover brisket (which can sometimes dry out), using it in taquitos keeps the meat moist and flavorful, surrounded by melted cheese and crispy tortillas. This method also allows you to stretch a small amount of brisket into a meal that serves multiple people, making it a cost-effective option.
Tips for the Best Smoked Brisket Taquitos
Achieving the perfect smoked brisket taquitos requires attention to a few key details:
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Choose the Right Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional for taquitos and provide that iconic crispy shell. However, they can be prone to cracking if not handled correctly. To prevent this, always heat your tortillas before rolling. This makes them more pliable and less likely to tear. Heating can be done in the microwave, on a skillet, or directly over an open flame for a slightly charred flavor.
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Roll Tightly and Secure: The secret to a well-formed taquito is to roll it tightly and secure it with a toothpick. This prevents the filling from spilling out during frying. Place the filling slightly off-center to make the rolling process easier and ensure an even distribution.
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Fry at the Right Temperature: The key to crispy taquitos that are not greasy lies in the frying temperature. The oil should be at 375°F. If it’s too hot, the tortillas will burn before the filling is heated through. If too low, they will absorb excess oil and become soggy. Using a kitchen thermometer or an infrared thermometer ensures the perfect frying temperature every time.
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Get Creative with Fillings and Toppings: While the combination of smoked brisket, onions, jalapeños, beans, and cheese is delicious, feel free to experiment with additional fillings or toppings. Sautéed bell peppers, roasted corn, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can enhance the flavor. For toppings, try avocado crema, chipotle mayo, or even pickled onions for a burst of acidity.
Creative Serving Ideas
Smoked brisket taquitos are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways to suit any occasion:
- Appetizer Platter: Arrange the taquitos on a large platter surrounded by dipping sauces like guacamole, salsa verde, queso, and sour cream. Garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro for a colorful, festive presentation.
- Game Day Snack: These taquitos are perfect finger food for game days or casual gatherings. Serve them with loaded nachos, jalapeño poppers, and cold beers for the ultimate Tex-Mex feast.
- Main Course: Turn taquitos into a complete meal by serving them with Mexican rice, charro beans, or a simple salad. Add a side of street corn (elote) for an authentic Mexican-inspired dinner.
- Breakfast Twist: Who says taquitos are only for lunch or dinner? Serve them with fried eggs and salsa for a hearty brunch option. The smoky brisket pairs surprisingly well with a runny yolk and spicy hot sauce.
Reducing Food Waste with Style
Using leftover smoked brisket for taquitos is not only delicious but also environmentally conscious. In a world where food waste is a growing concern, finding innovative ways to repurpose leftovers is crucial. According to the USDA, food waste accounts for approximately 30-40% of the food supply in the United States. By transforming leftovers into something new and exciting, you’re contributing to a more sustainable food system.
Conclusion:
Leftover Smoked Brisket Taquitos are more than just a way to use up leftovers they’re a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the bold, smoky flavors of barbecue while paying homage to the beloved taquito. This fusion of Mexican and Texan traditions creates a dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Whether served as an appetizer, a game-day snack, or a main course, these taquitos are sure to impress.
In addition to their incredible taste, smoked brisket taquitos are a smart choice for reducing food waste, making them a feel-good option that benefits both your palate and the planet. So next time you find yourself with leftover brisket, don’t just reheat it turn it into these crispy, cheesy taquitos and enjoy a whole new culinary experience.