3-Ingredient Gorditas (Fluffy Corn Cakes)

By Muhammad Faizan

3-Ingredient Gordaites (Fluffy Corn Cakes)

 Description:

These Mexican-style gordaites are soft, fluffy, and slightly crispy on the outside. Made from only three simple ingredients — masa haring, water, and salt — they’re a quick and filling breakfast or snack. You can stuff or top them with cheese, salsa, or vegetables.

 Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa haring (corn flour, such as Música)

  • 1 ½ cups warm water (plus a little extra if needed)

  • ½ teaspoon salt

Optional fillings/toppings (as seen in your image):

  • Shredded cabbage or lettuce

  • Crumbled cheese or queso fresco

  • Chopped cilantro

  • Diced onion

  • Red salsa or hot sauce

Instructions:

  1. Make the dough:
    In a large bowl, combine masa harina and salt. Gradually add warm water while mixing until a soft dough forms — it should feel like playdough, not sticky or dry.

  2. Shape the gorditas:
    Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Flatten each ball into a round disk, about ¼ inch (0.5 cm) thick.

  3. Cook the gorditas:

    • Heat a griddle or skillet (comal) over medium-high heat.

    • Cook each gordita for 1–2 minutes per side, until lightly browned.

    • They’ll start to puff up — that’s perfect!

  4. Optional (for softer gorditas):

    • Once slightly cooled, slice halfway open and cook briefly again to make them puff more evenly.

  5. Serve:

    • Fill or top with your favorite ingredients — cheese, salsa, shredded lettuce, or refried beans.

Servings:

Makes 8–10 gorditas (serves 3–4 people).

 Notes & Tips:

  • If your dough cracks, add a little more water (1 tablespoon at a time).

  • Don’t press too thin — thicker gorditas puff up better.

  • You can fry them lightly in oil for extra crispiness.

  • Store leftovers in a cloth or airtight container to keep them soft.

 Nutritional Info (per gordita, without fillings):

Nutrient Amount
Calories 120 kcal
Carbohydrates 24 g
Protein 2 g
Fat 1 g
Fiber 2 g
Sodium 120 mg

 Health Benefits:

Benefit Description
Gluten-Free Masa harina is made from corn, not wheat.
Energy Boosting Great source of complex carbs for morning fuel.
Customizable Can be filled with protein-rich or veggie toppings.
Low in Fat When cooked without oil, they’re naturally light.

 Q & A:

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
✅ Yes — store uncooked dough balls covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Q2: Can I use regular flour instead of masa harina?
❌ No — masa harina is made from nixtamalized corn, which gives the unique flavor and texture.

Q3: Why didn’t mine puff up?
😅 Make sure your skillet is hot enough and the gorditas aren’t pressed too thin.

Q4: Can I stuff them before cooking?
🌯 Yes! Add cheese or beans inside before flattening and cook as usual for stuffed gorditas.

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