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Taco Meat

Taco Meat
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A quick, flavorful, and versatile Taco Meat recipe that transforms simple ground meat into a delicious taco filling. Ready in under 30 minutes, this family-friendly dish is perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, and more, with options to customize for dietary preferences and taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup water or broth

Optional Variations

  • Crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (for extra heat)
  • Fresh chopped cilantro and lime (for a Mexican-inspired twist)
  • Smoked paprika and chipotle chili powder (for smoky flavor)
  • Crumbled tofu, lentils, or textured vegetable protein (for vegetarian options)
  • Fresh salsa or diced tomatoes (as tomato paste alternative for low-carb)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Measure out the spices so everything is ready for quick cooking.
  2. Brown the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add chopped onions to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for about one minute to release its aroma.
  4. Season the Meat: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
  5. Add Tomato Paste and Liquid: Stir in tomato paste, then add water or broth. Lower heat and simmer until slightly thickened and the meat is juicy.
  6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the Taco Meat and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat when ready to serve or customize further.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for the best flavor, such as freshly ground cumin and chili powder.
  • Cook meat in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and to achieve better browning.
  • Drain excess fat after browning for a leaner and cleaner tasting filling.
  • Allow the meat to simmer slowly to help the spices meld beautifully.
  • Experiment with different ground meats like pork, chicken, or lamb for new flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco meat, ground beef taco, easy taco filling, Mexican recipe, quick dinner, family-friendly, gluten free taco

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/taco-meat/