Few dishes are as universally loved as tacos. Whether it's Taco Tuesday or just a regular day, beef tacos with salsa are always a hit. This versatile and flavorful meal can be customized to your liking and is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Let’s explore a simple yet delicious beef taco recipe topped with a fresh homemade salsa!
Why Beef Tacos?
Beef tacos are a great choice because of their rich flavor and ease of preparation. Ground beef is affordable, cooks quickly, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of seasonings. When combined with a zesty salsa, these tacos offer a burst of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
¼ cup water
For the Salsa:
2 ripe tomatoes, diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste
For Assembly:
8 small corn or flour tortillas
Shredded lettuce
Grated cheese (cheddar, cotija, or your favorite variety)
Sour cream or Mexican crema (optional)
Sliced avocado (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned (about 5-7 minutes).
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if needed.
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the tomato paste for extra flavor and moisture, then pour in the water.
Stir everything together and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Fresh Salsa
In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro.
Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the mixture and season with salt.
Toss everything together and adjust the seasoning to taste. Let the salsa sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
3. Assemble the Tacos
Warm your tortillas either on a dry skillet or in the microwave.
Spoon the beef filling into the center of each tortilla.
Top with a generous scoop of fresh salsa.
Add your desired toppings: shredded lettuce, grated cheese, sour cream, and avocado slices.
Tips for Perfect Tacos
Heat the tortillas:
Warm tortillas are key for a soft, pliable taco. Heat them on a skillet or wrap them in a damp cloth and microwave for about 20 seconds.
Use fresh ingredients:
Fresh cilantro, lime, and ripe tomatoes make a huge difference in the flavor of your salsa.
Make it your own:
Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based protein. You can also experiment with different salsas, like mango or pineapple, for a tropical twist.
Conclusion
Beef tacos with salsa are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your taco repertoire.
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