USDA Beef Tacos

USDA Beef Tacos Recipe from Mexico with Ground Beef, Tomato Sauce and Cheddar

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Beef tacos are a classic and delicious dish that is loved by many. This recipe for USDA Beef Tacos is easy to make and perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With a combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, these tacos are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Tacos have been a popular dish in Mexican cuisine for centuries. The origins of the taco can be traced back to the indigenous people of Mexico who would wrap food in tortillas for easy consumption. The modern version of the taco that we know today has evolved over time and has become a staple in many households around the world.

Ingredients

12 fully cooked taco shells
1 lb (454 g) ground beef
0.25 cup chopped onion
8 oz (227 g) tomato sauce
2 tsp chili powder
1 cup chopped tomato
1 cup shredded lettuce
2 oz (57 g) shredded natural sharp cheddar cheese
taco sauce, as desired

How to prepare

Preheat the oven and heat the taco shells according to the instructions on the package.
In a frying pan, cook the ground beef and onion until browned.
Remove any excess fat from the pan.
Add tomato sauce and chili powder to the beef mixture.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes dry and crumbly.
Fill the heated taco shells with approximately 2 tbsp of the meat mixture.
In a separate bowl, combine diced tomatoes, lettuce, and cheese.
Spoon about 2 tbsp of the tomato, lettuce, and cheese mixture over the beef in the taco shells.
Drizzle taco sauce over the tacos, as desired.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter option.
Add black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to fully cook the ground beef before filling the taco shells to ensure that it is safe to eat.

- Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking, such as adding avocado, sour cream, or salsa.

- Heating the taco shells in the oven before filling them will help to make them crispy and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Serve USDA Beef Tacos with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the ground beef with onions adds flavor to the meat mixture.

- Simmering the beef with tomato sauce and chili powder helps to infuse the flavors together.

- Layering the taco shells with the meat mixture and toppings creates a delicious and visually appealing dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground chicken or turkey instead of ground beef for a leaner option.

- Swap out the cheddar cheese for a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Colby.

Make Ahead Tips

The beef mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the mixture before filling the taco shells.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the filled tacos on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapenos for a colorful and festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve USDA Beef Tacos with a side of Mexican street corn, guacamole, and a cold beer or margarita for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through before filling the taco shells.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of USDA Beef Tacos contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of USDA Beef Tacos contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of USDA Beef Tacos contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of USDA Beef Tacos contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Beef is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are essential nutrients for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (taco shells), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

USDA Beef Tacos are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are a satisfying and delicious option for a quick and easy dinner.

Summary

USDA Beef Tacos are a classic and delicious dish that is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With a combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, these tacos are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew I had to try it. I was visiting my friend Martha, who had just returned from a trip to Texas. She raved about these amazing beef tacos she had tried there, made with high quality USDA beef and seasoned to perfection. As she described the flavors and textures, my mouth watered and I knew I had to get my hands on that recipe.

Martha graciously shared the recipe with me, along with some tips and tricks she had picked up from the locals in Texas. She emphasized the importance of using high quality USDA beef, as it would make all the difference in the final dish. She also recommended using a variety of spices and seasonings to really bring out the flavors of the meat.

I was excited to try out the recipe, so I headed to the local butcher shop to pick up some USDA beef. I could already picture the delicious tacos I would be serving to my family that evening. As I started cooking, the kitchen filled with the rich aroma of the beef and spices simmering together on the stove. I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the tacos were finally ready, I plated them up and brought them to the table. My family's eyes lit up with excitement as they took their first bites. The flavors were even better than I had imagined - the tender beef, the savory spices, and the fresh toppings all came together to create a truly mouthwatering dish.

From that moment on, USDA beef tacos became a regular fixture in our family's meal rotation. Whenever we were craving something comforting and delicious, I would whip up a batch of these tacos and watch as my loved ones devoured them with gusto. The recipe quickly became a favorite among my family and friends, and I was always happy to share it with anyone who asked.

Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe, tweaking the seasonings and toppings to suit my family's tastes. I also experimented with different cooking methods, trying out grilling, baking, and even slow cooking the beef to see which produced the best results. Each time I made the tacos, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction, knowing that I was creating something truly special for my loved ones to enjoy.

As I look back on the memories of cooking USDA beef tacos for my family, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences and people that have shaped my love for cooking. From Martha's Texas trip to my own kitchen experiments, each moment has contributed to my culinary journey and helped me to become the cook I am today.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to the next generation, I hope that they will continue to enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting warmth of USDA beef tacos. May they create their own memories and traditions around this beloved dish, just as I have done with my family. And may they always remember that good food has the power to bring people together and create lasting connections that transcend time and distance.