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Beef Tacos Recipe

Fareeha
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Servings 8
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Beef:
  • 1 lb 450 g ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 packet 1 oz taco seasoning mix (or homemade: 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp oregano, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper)
  • 1/2 cup 120 ml water
  • For the Tacos:
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 1 cup 100 g shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup 120 g shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup 150 g diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup 120 g sour cream
  • 1/2 cup 120 g salsa
  • 1/4 cup 60 g sliced black olives (optional)
  • 1/4 cup 60 g chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 1 lime cut into wedges
  • Optional Toppings:
  • 1 avocado sliced or diced
  • 1 cup sliced onion
  • 1/2 cup 120 g corn kernels (cooked)
  • 1/2 cup 120 g black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • Hot sauce to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  • Gather all ingredients: Ensure you have everything ready before you start cooking.
  • Chop the vegetables: Finely chop the onion and garlic. Dice the tomatoes, shred the lettuce and cheese, and prepare any additional toppings.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

  • Heat a skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil if desired.
  • Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until they are fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Add seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

  • Heat the tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat, about 30 seconds per side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds until soft.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

  • Layer the ingredients: Place a few spoonfuls of the seasoned beef in the center of each tortilla.
  • Add toppings: Top with shredded lettuce, onion, diced tomatoes, and any other toppings you like.
  • Finish with a squeeze of lime: Add a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of salsa, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve immediately: Enjoy your delicious beef tacos while they are warm and fresh.
  • Optional sides: Serve with rice, beans, or a fresh salad.

Notes

Selecting the Best Beef

  • Use ground beef with a bit of fat: 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal for flavorful, juicy tacos. The fat adds richness and helps keep the meat moist.
  • Consider alternatives: Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option, but you might need to add a bit of oil for moisture.

Cooking Techniques

  • Season generously: Don't skimp on the taco seasoning. If using a store-bought packet, follow the instructions. For homemade seasoning, adjust spices to taste.
  • Cook the beef thoroughly: Ensure the beef is fully cooked and browned. This adds depth of flavor.
  • Simmer the beef with water: This step helps the seasoning blend into the meat and creates a slightly saucy consistency.

Assembling Tacos

  • Warm the tortillas: This makes them more pliable and enhances the overall texture of the taco. You can warm them in a skillet, microwave, or directly over a gas flame for a bit of char.
  • Balance the toppings: Don't overfill the tacos. A good balance of beef and toppings ensures each bite is flavorful and not too messy.
  • Fresh toppings: Use fresh, crisp vegetables to add a contrasting texture to the seasoned beef.

Making Tacos in Advance

  • Prepare the beef ahead: Cook the seasoned beef and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat properly: Reheat the beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the mixture.
  • Keep toppings separate: If preparing tacos in advance, store toppings separately and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Storing Leftovers

  • Store components separately: Keep the beef, tortillas, and toppings in separate containers to maintain freshness.
  • Reheat carefully: Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave, and warm the tortillas as described above.
  • Use within a few days: For best results, consume leftovers within 3 days.
By following these steps and tips, you'll master the art of making delicious beef tacos that your family will love, time and time again!