Beef patty tacos

Beef Patty Tacos Recipe from Mexico - Easy and Delicious

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Beef patty tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos, combining the savory flavors of ground beef with the crispiness of fried tortillas. This dish is perfect for those who love the rich taste of beef and the convenience of a taco. It's a versatile recipe that can be customized with various toppings to suit any palate, making it a favorite for family dinners, gatherings, and even a quick, satisfying meal on a busy day.

History

The concept of using ground beef in tacos has roots in both Mexican and American cuisines. Tacos, a staple in Mexican food, traditionally consist of small hand-sized corn or wheat tortillas topped with a variety of fillings. The adaptation of using ground beef as a primary filling began to gain popularity in the United States in the early 20th century, leading to the creation of dishes like beef patty tacos. This recipe is a fusion of traditional Mexican cooking techniques with the American love for ground beef, resulting in a dish that is both familiar and novel.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of lean ground beef for every 12 to 16 tacos you want. (The less fat the better.)
Yellow or white corn tortillas. (It doesn't matter.)
avocado oil (It doesn't burn until it reaches 500°F (260°C) or so. It also tastes great.)
salt, pepper, and garlic powder. (Do not substitute with garlic salt. It is 90% salt and 10% garlic.)

How to prepare

Cook with care when using ground beef products.
For best results, use thin tortillas instead of thick ones.
Heat an electric frying pan and add about an inch of avocado oil. Preheat to 300°F (149°C).
Spread a thin layer of beef on half of each tortilla, allowing for folding during frying.
In my household, each person typically enjoys 3-6 tacos.
Once the meat is spread on all the tacos, sprinkle a thin layer of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Using tongs, fry the bottom of each folded taco until it becomes crisp.
When the bottom is sufficiently crisp, lay the taco on one side and cook for approximately 2 minutes. Ensure that more than half of the taco is submerged in the oil.
Repeat the process until the frying pan is full of tacos.
After the 2-minute mark, flip the tacos onto their other side and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Continue cooking the meat until it reaches your desired level of doneness. The shell should be crisp and the meat tender.
Place the finished tacos in a container lined with paper towels to allow excess oil to drain off.
Fill the tacos with desired toppings and enjoy.

Variations

For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to the beef mixture.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetarian? Try using mashed beans or lentils as the base for your patties.

Notes

Variant for Vegetarians: We take the tortillas and fry them flat until they're crisp. Serve them with hot refried beans, black beans, and amenities on top.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture for your beef patty tacos, consider the following tips:

- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but remember that a bit of fat can add flavor.

- Make sure the tortillas are thin to achieve the perfect crispiness without becoming too hard.

- Avocado oil is recommended for its high smoke point and subtle taste, but other high smoke point oils like canola or vegetable oil can also be used.

- Season the beef generously before cooking to enhance its flavor.

- Keep the oil at a consistent temperature to ensure even cooking and to prevent the tacos from becoming greasy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve beef patty tacos with a side of fresh salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for added flavor and texture. A side of Mexican rice or beans can complement the tacos for a more filling meal.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the tacos in avocado oil at a consistent temperature is key to achieving the perfect crispiness without absorbing too much oil. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the tacos to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Avocado oil can be substituted with any high smoke point oil, such as canola or vegetable oil.

- For a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.

- If you're avoiding dairy, omit cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to cook, let the beef come to room temperature for more even cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the tacos on a platter garnished with lime wedges and fresh cilantro. Offer a variety of toppings in separate bowls so guests can customize their tacos.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair beef patty tacos with a light, crisp beer or a margarita for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef. A side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad can balance the meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispiness of the tortillas.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single beef patty taco can range from 200 to 300 calories, depending on the size and the specific ingredients used. The majority of the calories come from the beef and the frying oil, while the tortillas and toppings contribute a smaller portion.

Carbohydrates

Each beef patty taco, depending on the size and type of tortilla used, contains approximately 15-30 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the tortillas, while the fillings add minimal amounts. Opting for whole wheat or low-carb tortillas can reduce the carbohydrate content for those monitoring their intake.

Fats

The fat content in beef patty tacos can vary based on the lean-to-fat ratio of the ground beef used and the amount of oil absorbed during frying. On average, a beef patty taco made with lean ground beef and fried in avocado oil may contain between 10-15 grams of fat. Using leaner beef and draining the tacos well on paper towels after frying can help reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Beef patty tacos are an excellent source of protein, with each taco providing approximately 15-20 grams. The protein primarily comes from the ground beef, making these tacos a satisfying and muscle-building option for meals.

Vitamins and minerals

Ground beef is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly B12, which is crucial for nerve function and the production of DNA and red blood cells. Including toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese can add additional nutrients, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium.

Alergens

Common allergens in beef patty tacos include gluten (found in wheat tortillas) and dairy (if cheese is used as a topping). For those with allergies, gluten-free tortillas and dairy-free cheese substitutes can be used to make this dish allergen-friendly.

Summary

Beef patty tacos offer a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. They can be part of a nutritious diet when consumed in moderation and paired with healthy toppings.

Summary

Beef patty tacos are a versatile and delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the crispiness of fried tortillas. With options for customization and adjustments for dietary needs, this recipe can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, beef patty tacos are sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in Mexico with my family. My abuela, my grandmother, was the one who first introduced me to the delicious world of cooking. She was a master in the kitchen, creating mouthwatering dishes that were always filled with love and tradition.

One day, as I watched her prepare dinner, she pulled out a worn and tattered cookbook from the shelf. It was filled with recipes that had been passed down through generations in our family. She flipped through the pages, stopping at a recipe for beef patty tacos. I had never heard of such a thing before, but my curiosity was piqued.

As she began to gather the ingredients and explain the process to me, I could see the passion and excitement in her eyes. She told me that this recipe had been passed down from her own mother, and that it was a family favorite. I watched intently as she mixed the ground beef with onions, garlic, and a secret blend of spices. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew that this dish was going to be something special.

After forming the patties and frying them to perfection, she showed me how to assemble the tacos. She placed a generous portion of the beef patty on a warm corn tortilla, then topped it with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. The final touch was a sprinkle of grated cheese and a drizzle of hot sauce. The sight of those beef patty tacos made my mouth water, and I couldn't wait to take my first bite.

As I savored the flavors of the taco, I knew that this recipe was something truly special. The combination of the seasoned beef patty with the fresh toppings was a symphony of taste and texture. It was a dish that was comforting and familiar, yet exciting and new at the same time.

From that day on, beef patty tacos became a staple in our household. My abuela would make them for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply as a weeknight dinner. Each time she prepared them, she would pass on her knowledge to me, teaching me the importance of using quality ingredients and cooking with love.

As I grew older and moved away from home, I carried the recipe for beef patty tacos with me wherever I went. It became my go-to dish for dinner parties, potlucks, and even just a quiet night at home. I found joy in sharing this recipe with friends and loved ones, watching as their faces lit up with delight at the first taste of the savory taco.

Years passed, and my abuela's cookbook became more worn and tattered, just like the one she had used all those years ago. But the recipe for beef patty tacos remained a constant in my life, a reminder of the love and heritage that had been passed down through generations.

Today, as I stand in my own kitchen preparing beef patty tacos for my own family, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and traditions that have shaped me into the cook I am today. The simple act of making this dish connects me to my past and fills me with a sense of pride and joy.

As I take a bite of the taco, savoring the familiar flavors and textures, I am transported back to that day in my abuela's kitchen, learning how to make this recipe for the first time. And with each bite, I am reminded of the love and passion that have been passed down through the generations, making this dish so much more than just a meal—it is a connection to my roots, my family, and the shared joy of cooking.