Flauta vs. Taquito (What’s the Difference?)

I often find myself in a dilemma when choosing between a taquito and a flauta. Both are popular filled and fried appetizers with Mexican roots.

And both are delicious! 

Flautas and taquitos may seem similar at first glance. But there are some key differences.

In this article, I explore the differences between flauta vs. taquito. I discuss what tortillas each uses, their origins, shape, and more! 

So you never have to struggle to choose which one to get. 

(And when in doubt, you can always get both!)

Read on to learn more!

Flauta vs. Taquito (What’s the Difference?) 

Let’s go over the key differences between flautas vs. taquitos. 

Origins

Flautas and taquitos are both cherished staples in Mexican cuisine. However, they originate from different culinary traditions. 

• Flautas have their roots in Mexico. Their name translates to “flute” in Spanish, referring to their rolled and elongated shape. 

• Taquitos, on the other hand, are closely associated with Tex-Mex cuisine. This cuisine emerged in the southwestern United States, particularly in regions near the Texan/Mexican border.

Size

Flautas and taquitos exhibit a difference in dimensions in size. 

• Flautas are larger, often elongated, and range from 6 to 8 inches long. 

• Taquitos are smaller, measuring around 4 to 6 inches long.

Shape

The shape of flautas and taquitos is another differentiating factor. 

• Flautas get their name from their resemblance to a flute – long and slender. 

• Taquitos resemble miniature rolled tacos, typically shorter and plumper.

Tortilla Type

The type of tortilla used in flautas and taquitos can also set them apart. 

• Flautas use flour tortillas. Flour tortillas allow for a larger size and a softer texture when fried. 

• Taquitos traditionally employ corn tortillas, which are crunchier when fried.

Cooking Method

When it comes to cooking methods, there’s no actual difference. Flautas and taquitos are usually deep-fried. This is particularly true in restaurants.

But many home cooks will bake them in the oven, too. This yields a less crispy but still delectable flauta or taquito.

Either way, you get a crispy tortilla on the outside and a soft, flavorful filling inside. 

Note: When oven-baking, use a toothpick to secure tortillas. This prevents them from splitting and ensures an even bake.

You can also enhance the crispiness by lightly spraying the tortillas with cooking spray beforehand.

What Are Flautas? 

Flautas are a delicious and popular Mexican dish. 

They feature tortillas rolled around a filling, usually meat or beans. And then, they fry until crispy. 

The name “flauta“ translates to “flute“ in Spanish. The flute-like shape of the rolled tortilla inspired the name.

Fill flautas with shredded chicken, beef, pork, beans, seasonings, and cheese. 

Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling and secure them with toothpicks. Then, deep-fry them until golden and crispy.

You can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main course. It all depends on the portion size and accompaniments.

What Are Taquitos?

Taquitos, or rolled tacos, is a flavorful Mexican dish.

You make taquitos by rolling corn tortillas around a filling, often meat or beans. Then, you fry them until they become crispy and golden brown. 

Fun fact- “taquito“ translates to “small taco“ in Spanish. How cute?

These yummy rolled treats are popular snacks or appetizers in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. 

Like flautas, you can serve taquitos with various toppings and fillings. I always like to experiment.

One of the appealing aspects of taquitos is their portability. 

This makes them an ideal finger food for parties, gatherings, and on-the-go snacking. It also makes them perfect for dipping! 

Try taquitos with salsa, queso, guacamole, or all of the above! 

How to Serve Flautas and Taquitos 

• Flautas with Sides: Present flautas alongside traditional Mexican sides like refried beans and Mexican rice. Include pico de gallo to balance the flavors and add a touch of freshness. Yum!
  
• Flauta Platter: Arrange flautas on a platter with the ends facing up to showcase their fillings. Serve them with colorful toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, pico de gallo, and crumbled queso fresco. Offer a variety of sauces like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping.
  
• Taquito Trio: Offer a trio of taquitos with different fillings – shredded chicken, beef, and black beans. Arrange them on individual plates and serve with an assortment of dipping sauces. This allows your guests to sample a variety of flavors.
  
• Taquitos Salad: Create a taquito-inspired salad by slicing taquitos into bite-sized pieces and layering them on a bed of mixed greens. Add toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and ranch or lime vinaigrette.