Description
A savory, tender taco meat blend using ground beef, cumin, and chili powder for bold flavor. Pork-free and alcohol-free, this Mexican staple elevates homemade tacos with optimal moisture and umami richness.
Ingredients
Ground beef
1 lb (90% lean preferred)
Onion
1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic
3 cloves, minced
Chili powder
1 tbsp (freshly ground)
Cumin
1 tsp (toasted)
Garlic powder
1 tsp
Salt
1 tsp (adjust to taste)
Water
1/2 cup (for deglazing)
Instructions
Heat skillet over medium-high. Add ground beef (no oil) and cook 5-7 minutes, breaking into small pieces.
Add onion and garlic; cook 2 minutes. Stir in chili powder and cumin, toasting 1 minute.
Pour in water, scrape pan bottom. Simmer 15 minutes, uncovered.
Stir in garlic powder and salt. Cook 5 minutes more, adjusting seasoning.
Notes
Use 90% lean beef for ideal moisture/fat balance
Toast spices in dry pan 30 seconds before adding to beef
Simmer uncovered last 5 minutes to concentrate flavor
Let rest 5 minutes before serving for firmer texture
*Halal alternative: Use certified halal beef throat-cut meat
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Baking
- Method: Stir-frying/Braising
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx 125g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 2000mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg