Making taco meat is a simple and delicious process. Here's a basic recipe to make taco meat:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or pork)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Meat: In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spatula or wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
2. Add Onion and Garlic: Once the meat is cooked, add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Season the Meat: Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper over the meat mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the meat is evenly coated with the seasonings.
4. Add Liquid: Pour the water or beef broth into the skillet with the seasoned meat mixture. Stir well to incorporate the liquid and deglaze the bottom of the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the taco meat simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together and the liquid to reduce slightly. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little more water or broth as needed.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the taco meat and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or additional spices to suit your taste preferences.
7. Serve: Once the taco meat is heated through and the flavors have developed, it's ready to serve. Spoon the meat mixture into taco shells, tortillas, or over nachos, and top with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Enjoy your homemade taco meat in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, salads, or any other Mexican-inspired dishes!