Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 cup water
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Tongs
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Pour in the water and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, until the liquid has mostly evaporated.
5. While the beef is cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat, flipping once, until they are soft and pliable.
6. To assemble the tacos, divide the beef mixture evenly among the tortillas. Top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro.
7. Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for cooking the beef
- Medium heat for warming the tortillas
Serving size:
- Makes 12 tacos
- Serves 4-6 people
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 230
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef
- Flour tortillas can be used instead of corn tortillas
- Monterey Jack cheese can be used instead of cheddar cheese
- Salsa or hot sauce can be added for extra flavor
Variations:
- Add diced avocado or guacamole to the tacos
- Use different toppings such as sour cream, sliced jalapenos, or diced red onion
- Make a vegetarian version by using crumbled tofu or black beans instead of beef
Tips and tricks:
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the beef from sticking
- Don't overcook the beef or it will become dry and tough
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave wrapped in damp paper towels to prevent them from drying out
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover beef mixture and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave wrapped in damp paper towels
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the tacos on a platter and garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro
Garnishes:
- Lime wedges
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapenos
- Diced red onion
Pairings:
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Corn on the cob
Suggested side dishes:
- Chips and salsa
- Guacamole
- Black bean salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beef mixture is too dry, add a splash of water or beef broth to moisten it
- If the tortillas are too stiff, warm them up longer or wrap them in damp paper towels and microwave for a few seconds
Food safety advice:
- Cook the beef 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 originated in Mexico and have been a popular street food for centuries
- The first recorded mention of tacos was in the 18th century, when they were described as a "light meal" eaten by miners in Mexico
Flavor profiles:
- The beef mixture is savory and slightly spicy, with hints of chili powder, cumin, and paprika
- The toppings add freshness and crunch, with the lettuce, tomatoes, and cilantro providing a balance of flavors
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the tacos with a cold beer or a margarita for a refreshing drink to complement the spicy flavors
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Region: Mexican