Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup elephant bush leaves, chopped
- 8 taco shells
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
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 3 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper and stir to combine.
5. Add the tomato sauce and water and stir to combine.
6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Add the chopped elephant bush leaves and stir to combine.
8. Remove from heat.
9. Heat the taco shells according to package instructions.
10. Spoon the beef mixture into the taco shells.
11. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro.
12. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for cooking the beef
- Low heat for simmering the beef mixture
Serving size:
- 8 tacos
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 460mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef
- Spinach or kale can be substituted for elephant bush leaves
- Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese can be substituted for cheddar cheese
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or salsa to the beef mixture for extra flavor
- Use soft tortillas instead of taco shells for a different texture
- Top with sliced avocado or guacamole for added creaminess
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chop the elephant bush leaves finely so they cook evenly with the beef
- Don't overcook the beef mixture to prevent it from becoming dry
- Squeeze lime juice over the tacos before eating for a citrusy kick
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the tacos on a platter and garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
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 additional tomato sauce to moisten it
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to 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 originated in the 18th century
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, slightly spicy, with a hint of citrus from the lime
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the tacos with a cold beer or margarita for a refreshing pairing
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