Lautas

Lautas are a traditional Mexican dish consisting of tortillas that are filled, rolled, and fried until crisp. They are typically made with corn tortillas, though variants using flour tortillas exist, and are filled with seasoned meats such as pork, chicken, or beef, or with beans and cheese for vegetarian versions. The filled tortillas are rolled tightly and fried, producing a crunchy, cylindrical bite.

After frying, lautas are commonly served with a variety of toppings and accompaniments, including shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese or crema, and salsa. Lime wedges may be offered on the side for added brightness. The dish is frequently enjoyed as street food or in taquerias and is a familiar item in Mexican cuisine as well as in Mexican-American communities.

Regional variations and naming: in different parts of Mexico and in other Spanish-speaking regions, similar rolled-and-fried tortilla dishes may be called flautas or taquitos, and terminology can vary by locality. Lautas may refer to the same preparation in some areas, while other regions reserve the terms for slightly different forms or sizes of the dish.

Variations: fillings vary widely by region and preference; some versions include potatoes, peppers, or chiles, and can utilize leftover cooked meats. While corn tortillas are most common, flour tortillas are used in some recipes.

See also: flauta, taquito, Mexican cuisine.