Introduction
Beef tacos are a classic Mexican dish that combines savory, seasoned beef with fresh toppings and a soft or crispy tortilla. This recipe includes a homemade pico de gallo that adds a burst of fresh flavor to the hearty beef filling. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive taco night, these beef tacos are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Juice of 1 lime
- For the Pico de Gallo:
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- For the Tacos:
- 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Sour cream (optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Beef Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth or water and lime juice. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the flavors are well combined. Remove from heat.
- Make the Pico de Gallo:
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and let sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until warm and pliable. Alternatively, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Fill each tortilla with a portion of the beef filling. Top with shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, avocado slices, and a spoonful of pico de gallo. Add sour cream if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Historical Context
Tacos have a rich history in Mexican cuisine, dating back to pre-Columbian times. Traditionally, tacos were made with small, soft corn tortillas and filled with a variety of ingredients, from meats and vegetables to insects. Over time, tacos evolved and became a beloved dish worldwide, with countless variations. Beef tacos, with their savory filling and fresh toppings, are a modern classic that continues to be a favorite.
Nutritional Information
Beef tacos provide a balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Here are some key nutritional highlights:
- Protein: Ground beef is a rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh pico de gallo offers vitamins A and C, along with potassium and fiber.
- Healthy Fats: Avocado adds healthy monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health.
Conclusion
Savory Beef Tacos with Pico de Gallo are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your table. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it out, and don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes on our blog!
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