Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Mexican pepperleaf
- 8-10 taco shells
- Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper and stir to combine.
5. Add tomato sauce and water and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
7. Stir in chopped Mexican pepperleaf and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
8. Heat taco shells according to package instructions.
9. Fill each taco shell with the beef mixture and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for sautéing and browning
Low heat for simmering
Serving size:
Makes 8-10 tacos
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef
- Regular lettuce or spinach can be substituted for Mexican pepperleaf
Variations:
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra heat and flavor
- Use soft tortillas instead of taco shells for a different texture
- Add black beans or corn for a vegetarian option
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to break up the ground beef into small pieces as it cooks to ensure even cooking
- Adjust the amount of chili powder and other spices to your taste preferences
- Serve with a side of guacamole for extra flavor
Storage instructions:
Leftover beef mixture can be stored 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 heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the tacos on a platter and garnish with extra chopped Mexican pepperleaf and a sprinkle of paprika.
Garnishes:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Chopped Mexican pepperleaf
Pairings:
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Corn on the cob
Suggested side dishes:
- Guacamole
- Chips and salsa
- Mexican street corn
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beef mixture is too dry, add a splash of water or tomato sauce to moisten it up.
- If the beef mixture is too wet, simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken the sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Food history:
Mexican pepperleaf, also known as hoja santa, is a popular herb in Mexican cuisine. It has a unique flavor that is often described as licorice-like and is used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and sauces.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy
- Savory
- Herbaceous
- Tangy
Serving suggestions:
Serve the tacos with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
Related Categories
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Region: Mexican
Taste: Spicy, Tangy, Savory, Herbaceous, Zesty