Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Flautas

• 1 lb cooked, shredded chicken (or beef, if preferred)
• 12 corn tortillas
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Salt, to taste

For the Tomato Sauce

• 4 large tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1/2 onion, roughly chopped
• 1 clove garlic
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust for desired spiciness)
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
• Shredded lettuce
• Sliced avocado
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Mexican crema or sour cream

Instructions

1. Make the Tomato Sauce:
   • In a blender, combine the chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, and chicken broth. Blend until smooth.
   • Pour the mixture into a saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Prepare the Flautas:
   • Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Warm the tortillas briefly in the skillet until pliable, then place about 2 tablespoons of shredded chicken down the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and secure with a toothpick.
   • In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the rolled tortillas and fry until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels, then season with salt.
3. Assemble the Flautas Ahogadas:
   • Place the flautas on a serving plate and pour the warm tomato sauce over them to “drown” them.
   • Garnish with crumbled cheese, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of Mexican crema or sour cream.
4. Serve:
   • Enjoy immediately while the flautas are still crispy, and serve with extra sauce on the side.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg

These Flautas Ahogadas bring together the best of crispy flautas and rich, spicy tomato sauce. They’re a perfect dish for any occasion, packed with Mexican flavors and textures. Enjoy!