Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground buffalo meat
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8-10 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the ground buffalo meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the diced jalapeño peppers, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
6. While the meat mixture is simmering, heat the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for 30 seconds on each side.
7. To assemble the tacos, spoon some of the buffalo meat mixture onto each tortilla.
8. Top with crumbled queso fresco and chopped cilantro.
9. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium-high heat for cooking the meat mixture and tortillas
Serving size:
Makes 8-10 tacos
Nutritional information:
Calories: 180
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 220mg
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef or turkey can be substituted for the buffalo meat.
- Queso fresco can be substituted with feta cheese or shredded cheddar cheese.
- If jalapeño peppers are too spicy, substitute with diced bell peppers.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
- Use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to remove the seeds from the jalapeño peppers to reduce the heat level.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the meat from sticking to the pan.
- Double the recipe for a larger crowd.
Storage instructions:
Leftover taco filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the taco filling in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the tacos on a platter with lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top.
Garnishes:
Garnish with sliced jalapeño peppers or diced tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Pairings:
Serve with a side of Mexican rice or black beans.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mexican rice
- Black beans
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Cucumber salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the meat mixture is too dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth to moisten it.
- If the tortillas are too stiff, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften them.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the buffalo meat to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish that has become popular all over the world. Buffalo meat is a lean and flavorful alternative to beef that is becoming more widely available.
Flavor profiles:
These tacos have a spicy and smoky flavor from the jalapeño peppers and smoked paprika. The queso fresco adds a creamy and tangy element.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with a cold beer or a margarita for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
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Region: Mexican