Flautas Ahogadas | Mexican Drowned Tacos

Here’s a simple version of **Flautas Ahogadas** with shredded chicken and a spicy red salsa. You can customize it with different proteins or sauces as you like.

#### For the Flautas:
– 12 corn tortillas (soft and warm for rolling)
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying

#### For the Drowning Salsa (Salsa Roja):
– 4 ripe tomatoes
– 2 dried guajillo chiles (stemmed and seeded)
– 2 chipotle chiles in adobo (for smoky heat)
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1/4 onion
– 1 cup chicken broth or water
– Salt to taste

#### Toppings (optional but highly recommended):
– Mexican crema or sour cream
– Crumbled queso fresco
– Shredded lettuce
– Avocado slices
– Chopped cilantro
– Lime wedges

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### How to Make Flautas Ahogadas

#### Step 1: Make the Salsa
1. **Soften the chiles**: In a small saucepan, boil the dried guajillo chiles with the tomatoes for about 8-10 minutes until everything is softened.
2. **Blend**: Add the softened tomatoes and guajillos to a blender along with chipotle chiles, garlic, onion, and broth. Blend until smooth. Add salt to taste.
3. **Simmer**: Pour the salsa into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 5-10 minutes to deepen the flavor. Set aside.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Filling
1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Warm the tortillas (to prevent cracking) and place a few tablespoons of chicken in each. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.

#### Step 3: Fry the Flautas
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the flautas until golden and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes each.
3. Drain on paper towels.

#### Step 4: Drown the Flautas!
1. Place the crispy flautas in a serving dish or bowl.
2. Generously ladle hot salsa over them until they’re soaked—but still slightly crispy.
3. Top with crema, cheese, lettuce, avocado, or any of your favorites.

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### Why You’ll Love Flautas Ahogadas

– **Texture Heaven**: The contrast between the crispy flauta and the soft, spicy salsa is pure perfection.
– **Full of Flavor**: The smoky, spicy sauce elevates even the simplest fillings.
– **Great for Leftovers**: This is a fantastic way to use leftover chicken, beef, or veggies.
– **Customizable Heat**: Control the spice level by adjusting the number of chiles you use.

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### Final Thoughts

**Flautas Ahogadas** are the ultimate expression of Mexican comfort food—crispy, saucy, flavorful, and impossible to eat just one. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd, jazzing up taco night, or simply treating yourself to a bold and satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug from Mexico.

Once you try them, you’ll understand why one plate just isn’t enough. So go ahead—grab a fork, drown your flautas, and enjoy every spicy, savory bite!

🌶️🇲🇽💃 **Buen provecho!**