Fried Tortilla Chips

Cookbook Category: Appetizers, Tex-Mex

Even though the supermarket provides a bewildering array of choices when it comes to tortilla chips, these are worth the effort. You can make these chips from fresh corn tortillas.

8 fresh corn tortillas (the best ones you can find)
oil for frying
salt to taste

Arrange the tortillas in a stack and cut into 4 equal wedges. Pour about an inch of oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat to 350°F on a deep-fat frying thermometer.

Fry just a few at a time, because if you overfill the skillet some chips end up soggy. Turn occasionally, until crisp and lightly browned (about 1 minute or less). Drain on paper towels; sprinkle lightly with salt, if desired. Store in an airtight container.

Makes 32 chips.

Prep time: 5 minutes; Cooking time: 20 minutes; Total time: 25 minutes