Ingredients

For the puffy shells:
• 2 cups masa harina (corn flour for tortillas)
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1½ cups warm water
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the filling:
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85/15)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• ½ cup water

For serving:
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Shredded cheddar or crumbled queso fresco
• Sour cream or Mexican crema
• Salsa verde or red salsa
• Lime wedges

Instructions

Make dough: Mix masa harina, salt, and warm water until smooth (like playdough). Rest 10 min, covered.
Form tortillas: Divide into 12 balls (~2 tbsp each). Press in a tortilla press or roll between plastic to 5″ rounds (~⅛” thick).
Fry shells: Heat 2–3″ oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry one tortilla: it will puff up in 10–15 sec. Use tongs to gently fold in half while still pliable. Hold shape 10 sec, then fry 30–60 sec per side until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels. Repeat.
Make filling: Brown beef with onion; drain fat. Add garlic, spices, salt, pepper, and water. Simmer 5–7 min until thickened.
Assemble: Fill puffy shells with beef, then top with lettuce, tomato, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Serve with lime!