These zesty beef tacos, topped with fresh and vibrant pico de gallo, are a perfect combination of savory and refreshing flavors. Whether you're hosting a casual taco night or simply craving something quick and delicious, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds with its juicy, seasoned beef and zesty, homemade pico de gallo.
Key Information
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Number of Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 2 tacos per serving
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
Ingredients List
For the Beef Tacos:
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 100g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
For the Pico de Gallo:
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and finely diced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt, to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
Prepare the Pico de Gallo:
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste and mix well. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the beef.
Cook the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Add the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef in the seasonings and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Warm the Tortillas:
- In a dry skillet, heat the corn tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, until they are warm and pliable. You can also wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds.
Assemble the Tacos:
- Divide the seasoned beef evenly between the tortillas.
- Top each taco with a generous spoonful of the fresh pico de gallo and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve:
- Serve immediately, with lime wedges on the side for extra zing.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: For the best pico de gallo, use ripe tomatoes with a balance of sweetness and acidity to enhance the overall freshness.
- Drain Excess Fat: If your beef is overly greasy, be sure to drain the fat to avoid soggy tacos and a heavy texture.
- Crisp the Tortillas: For added texture, you can lightly crisp the tortillas in a skillet with a little oil for a few seconds on each side.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier taco, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef.
- Marinate the Pico: Let the pico de gallo sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas? Absolutely! Flour tortillas work just as well, though corn tortillas offer a more traditional flavor and texture for tacos.
- How can I make these tacos healthier? You can substitute ground beef with leaner meats like ground turkey or chicken and use low-fat cheese to reduce calories.
- How long does the pico de gallo last? Pico de gallo is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Can I prepare the beef filling ahead of time? Yes, you can make the beef filling a day ahead and reheat it before serving. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- What can I serve with beef tacos? Serve your beef tacos with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a light salad to complete the meal.
Get ready to enjoy a taco night that bursts with flavor! These zesty beef tacos topped with vibrant pico de gallo are sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. With every bite, you'll taste the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and fresh. So grab your tortillas and get ready for a fiesta of flavors!