Taco Meat
Taco meat simmers ground beef with spices and a little liquid until juicy and well seasoned.
About This Recipe
Taco meat simmers ground beef with spices and a little liquid so every bite stays juicy.
The recipe works best when the ground beef is prepared carefully and the texture cues in the method are followed.
Ingredients
- ✓1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
- ✓1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ✓½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ✓1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ✓¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ✓¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more as needed
- ✓1 tablespoon avocado oil
- ✓1 pound lean ground beef, 90/10 (450 g)
- ✓¾ cup finely chopped onion, a quarter of a medium onion, optional
- ✓1 Anaheim pepper, deseeded and finely chopped, optional
- ✓2 tablespoons tomato paste (35 g)
- ✓½ cup chicken stock or water (60 ml)
Ingredient Notes
- Ground beef: This is the main ingredient, so use the amount and preparation listed.
- Taco spices: This helps build the core flavor of the recipe.
- Tomato or liquid: This affects the texture and balance.
- Salt: Adjust carefully so the finished dish stays balanced.
Instructions
- 1
Make spice mix: In a small bowl, stir together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, and salt.
- 2
Brown the meat: Heat the avocado oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, pat it down into the skillet, and sprinkle the spice mixture over it. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, stirring until it begins to brown.
- 3
Add veggies: Stir in the onions and pepper, then cook, moving them around the pan until they begin to soften and the onions smell sweet, about 3 minutes.
- 4
To finish: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 more minutes. Add the chicken stock (or water) and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. Taste, then add more salt if you think it needs it (since this usually gets added to tacos or salads, keeping it well seasoned works really well).
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Prepare the ground beef before heating the pan or oven.
- Follow the heat level in the method so the texture comes out right.
- Taste or check doneness before serving.
- Let the dish rest or chill when the instructions call for it.
Variations and Substitutions
- Extra flavor: Add herbs, citrus, or spice that fits .
- Lighter version: Reduce rich toppings or use smaller portions.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the component that holds best in advance.
- Serving style: Turn leftovers into bowls, sandwiches, or small portions when it fits.
What to Serve With Taco Meat
Serve in tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, or lettuce wraps.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftover in a covered container.
Reheat gently or serve chilled depending on the texture of the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the ground beef: Give the main ingredient enough time to cook or set properly.
- Skipping seasoning: Taste and adjust before serving when possible.
- Wrong temperature: Too much heat can hurt the texture.
- Serving too soon: Some recipes need a short rest or chill to finish properly.
FAQ
Can I make ahead?
Yes. Prepare the part that stores best, then finish or reheat before serving.
How do I know it is done?
Use the timing plus the texture and doneness cues in the instructions.
Can I change the seasoning?
Yes. Adjust gradually so the main flavor stays balanced.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers covered and refrigerated when appropriate.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 201
- Carbohydrates: 6.6g
- Cholesterol: 67.8mg
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Protein: 26.6g
- Sodium: 556.4mg
- Sugar: 2.5g
- Fat: 7.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.2g