How to Cook Puffy Gorditas

* 2 cups masa harina

* 2 cups warm water

* 1 teaspoon baking powder

* 1 teaspoon salt

* Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the masa harina, water, baking powder, and salt. The dough should be slightly sticky, but not too wet. If it's too wet, add a little more masa harina. If it's too dry, add a little more water.

2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

3. When you're ready to cook the gorditas, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the skillet.

4. Once the oil is hot, drop the dough into the skillet, one spoonful at a time. Flatten each spoonful with the back of a spoon or spatula until it's about 1/4-inch thick.

5. Fry the gorditas for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they're golden brown and puffed up.

6. Remove the gorditas from the skillet and drain them on paper towels.

7. Serve the gorditas with your favorite toppings, such as shredded chicken, ground beef, cheese, salsa, or guacamole.

Tips

* To make sure the gorditas puff up, make sure the dough is not too wet and the oil is hot enough.

* If the gorditas don't puff up, you can try using a different type of masa harina or baking powder.

* You can also add a little bit of baking soda to the dough to help it puff up.

* Serve the gorditas immediately, as they are best when they are fresh and warm.