Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. onion powder
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 soft taco shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spices are fragrant and the beef is fully cooked.
5. Warm the soft taco shells according to package instructions.
6. To assemble the tacos, divide the beef mixture evenly among the taco shells.
7. Top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
8. Squeeze a lime wedge over each taco before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used in place of cheddar cheese.
- Any type of lettuce can be used in place of shredded lettuce.
Variations:
- Add sliced avocado or guacamole to the tacos.
- Use hard taco shells instead of soft taco shells.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the tacos.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to fully cook the ground beef before adding the spices.
- Customize the spice level to your liking by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper used.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove any excess grease from the beef before assembling the tacos.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover beef mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the beef mixture, simply heat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the tacos on a platter with lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish.
Garnishes:
- Lime wedges
- Chopped cilantro
Pairings:
- Serve the tacos with a side of Spanish rice and black beans.
Suggested side dishes:
- Spanish rice
- Black beans
- Corn on the cob
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beef mixture is too dry, add a splash of water or beef broth to the skillet to moisten it.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to fully cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish that have been enjoyed for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, smoky, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the tacos with a cold beer or a margarita for a refreshing drink pairing.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Mexican
Taste: Spicy, Tangy, Savory, Herbaceous, Aromatic