Here is my taquito recipe/procedure:
I will use any cut of beef that I got on sale, but usually a roast. I cut off all of the fat that I can, then I put it in my crockpot. I then season it with garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper ( I just sprinkle back and forth enough to cover the roast) and a tablespoon or so of brown sugar. Or you can just use a packet of taco seasoning mix if you have one. I then add about 3/4 cup of water , cover, and let it cook on low all day for like 8 hours, or until it falls apart when you put a fork in it.
At this point, I shred it still in the crock using the 2 fork method. I then place the roast, liquid and all, into a pan on the stove and cook all of the juices down into the meat for a really good flavor. Now you let the roast cool until you can handle touching the meat without burning your fingers.
Meanwhile, get at least 3 dozen corn tortillas (more or less depending on the size of the roast and how fat you want your taquitos) and soften them in hot oil. This just takes about 10 seconds or so for each tortilla flipping it over once. If you leave them in the oil for too long they will not roll properly. Be sure to drain these on paper towels and let them cool also until you can handle them.
Take a tortilla and place about 2 tablespoons of meat (more or less, it's your call) on the edge of the tortilla and roll tightly, but carefully, making sure not to tear the tortilla. Place seam down in a 9x13 pan. Repeat the procedure and stack them tightly next to each other until the pan is full.
Then place a layer of foil or waxed paper on top of that layer and do another one. When you are done, freeze them until they are solid. They will not stick because of the oil. After they are frozen, I place them in ziplock bags. To cook them, do not defrost them or they will fall apart.
You can either fry them in oil until they are a golden brown, and drain well, or you can bake them in a 350 oven for 15-20 minutes.
Serve with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa to dip them in.
~Rose
