Introduction
Indulge in the deliciousness of homemade fried tacos with a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, black beans, and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, providing a delightful crunch with every bite. Serve them hot and customize with your favorite toppings for an unforgettable meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely diced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chiles
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 12 small corn or flour tortillas
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 tacos
Directions
1. **Prepare the Filling:**
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced green chiles, and black beans. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat.
2. **Assemble the Tacos:**
Place a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese on one half of each tortilla. Spoon the beef and bean mixture over the cheese. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling.
3. **Fry the Tacos:**
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the assembled tacos in the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary. Fry each taco for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the tacos from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. **Serve:**
Serve the fried tacos hot, optionally garnished with additional toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or salsa. Enjoy your delicious homemade tacos!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced green chiles, and black beans. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Tacos:
Place a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese on one half of each tortilla. Spoon the beef and bean mixture over the cheese. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling.
Fry the Tacos:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the assembled tacos in the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary. Fry each taco for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the tacos from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve:
Serve the fried tacos hot, optionally garnished with additional toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or salsa.
Notes
Meat Alternatives:
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
Tortilla Options:
Corn tortillas will yield a more traditional flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and easier to fold.
Spice Level:
Adjust the taco seasoning and green chiles according to your preferred spice level.
Storage:
Leftover filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving again.
Vegetarian Version:
Replace the ground beef with additional black beans or other vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Filling
Cook the lean ground beef and diced onion together in a skillet over medium heat. This technique allows the beef to become nicely browned while the onion becomes soft, enhancing the flavor of the filling.
Assembling the Tacos
Carefully construct each taco by placing shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla, followed by the beef and bean mixture. Folding the tortilla in half encloses the filling, making it easier to handle during frying.
Frying the Tacos
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. This technique requires caution as you place the assembled tacos into the hot oil, frying them until they achieve a golden brown and crispy texture on both sides. Using paper towels helps absorb excess oil afterwards.
Serving the Tacos
Serve the fried tacos hot, allowing for additional toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or salsa to enhance the meal.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute lean ground beef with other meats such as chicken, turkey, or even plant-based proteins for a vegetarian option.
Are there any alternatives to frying the tacos?
Yes, you can bake the assembled tacos in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they are crispy, using minimal oil.
How can I make these tacos less spicy?
You can reduce the spice level by using a mild taco seasoning and opting for fewer or milder varieties of green chiles.
What toppings can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can use toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, jalapeños, cilantro, sour cream, or salsa to elevate the taste and presentation of your tacos.
Can I make the filling in advance?
Yes, the beef and bean filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a day or two. Just reheat it before assembling the tacos.
Conclusion
The crispy beef and bean tacos make for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by all. The blend of flavors from the seasoned beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and crispy tortillas creates a delightful combination. These tacos are not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing for various toppings and sides to enhance the dining experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Taco Variation
Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu and season with the taco seasoning. Add corn, diced bell peppers, and avocado for a hearty vegetarian filling.
Breakfast Tacos
Use scrambled eggs in place of the beef and add ingredients like diced potatoes, peppers, and a sprinkle of cheese. Serve with salsa for a great start to the day.
Spicy Beef Tacos
Increase the heat by adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture. Top with spicy salsa and fresh cilantro for an extra kick.
Mexican Street Tacos
Move away from frying and grill the tortillas instead. Add fresh pico de gallo and diced onions for a taste of authentic Mexican street tacos.
Cheesy Beef Taquitos
Spread the beef and bean mixture onto the tortillas, roll them tightly, and then fry until crispy. Top with cheese and serve with guacamole.
Buffalo Beef Tacos
Mix buffalo sauce into the beef mixture for a spicy twist. Serve topped with blue cheese crumbles and celery sticks for crunch.
