Here is a recipe I made last week that Dustin is still talking about. Basic ground beef tacos. What’s so special? Well, instead of dumping a paper packet of seasoning into the skillet, I made the mix myself! I had all the needed ingredients on hand, and it only took 2 minutes! Seriously, anyone could do it! And while it tasted surprisingly similar to a store-bought brand, it lacked the characteristic powdery processed feel- in other words it was fresher and better! Tender juicy beef, folded in a soft flour tortilla amongst typical taco toppings, it made for a seriously good meal.

Ground Beef Tacos with Homemade Taco Seasoning

INGREDIENTS

1 lb. lean ground beef
1 Tbsp. all-purpose flour (optional)
1/4 cup water
1 recipe taco seasoning (see below)

corn or flour tortillas, warmed
lettuce, shredded
tomato, diced
Cheddar/Monterey Jack/Mexican blend cheese, grated
sour cream
salsa
avocado or guacamole

Taco Seasoning:
1 Tbsp. chili powder
1 1/2 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. paprika (or smoked paprika)
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. dried Mexican oregano (or regular oregano)
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (or 1/8 tsp. cayenne)
1 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine seasonings in a small bowl. Set aside.

2. Preheat large skillet over medium heat and cook beef until browned. Drain the fat. Stir in the flour (optional, to help it thicken) and seasoning mix to coat. Pour in the water, bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook several minutes until thickened and most of the water has evaporated.

3. Serve warm with soft tortillas, lettuce, tomato, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and/or avocado/guacamole.

Serves 4.

(Adapted from All Recipes)