Mexican > Tacos

Charqui Tacos Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. beef jerky (charqui)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 cup water
- 8-10 corn tortillas
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, hot sauce

Special equipment needed:
- Skillet or frying pan
- Tongs

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the beef jerky (charqui) to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Pour in the water and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beef jerky is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing a spoonful of the charqui mixture onto each tortilla. Top with desired toppings, such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and hot sauce.
7. Serve immediately.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Skillet over medium heat
Serving size:
- 8-10 tacos

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 150 per taco
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 15g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef or shredded chicken can be substituted for the beef jerky (charqui).
- Flour tortillas can be substituted for the corn tortillas.

Variations:
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the skillet for added flavor and texture.
- Top with sliced avocado or guacamole for a creamy addition.

Tips and tricks:
- Use tongs to break up the beef jerky (charqui) into smaller pieces while cooking.
- Warm the tortillas before assembling the tacos to prevent them from cracking.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover charqui mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the charqui mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the tacos on a platter with a side of salsa and guacamole.

Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and hot sauce

Pairings:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice and beans for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Mexican rice and beans

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the beef jerky (charqui) is fully cooked before consuming.

Food history:
- Charqui is a traditional South American method of preserving meat by drying it in the sun.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, smoky, and slightly spicy

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: N/A

Taste: Spicy, Tangy, Savory, Salty, Smoky