DinnerLunch

Crunchy Ground Beef Tacos

Crunchy Ground Beef Tacos

You’ll Need

For the taco seasoning:
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons ground cumin
1 tablespoon mild smoked paprika
1 tablespoon hot smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon habanero powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

For the tacos:
3/4 cup grapeseed oil or peanut oil
8 to 12 soft corn tortillas
1 large red onion, medium dice
4 medium garlic cloves, minced
2 pounds ground beef
3/4 cup water
For assembling the tacos:
Shredded lettuce
Mexican blend shredded cheese
Hot sauce (optional)

Directions

Make the taco seasoning by combining the spices, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well to make sure the cornstarch is fully incorporated and there are no lumps.
Fry the taco shells: Heat your oven to 250°F. Line a baking sheet with a double layer of paper towels and place it in the warm oven. Heat the oil in a cast-iron skillet until it registers 350°F on a deep-frying thermometer. Fry 1 tortilla at a time, using tongs so you don’t get burned: Carefully lay a tortilla in the hot oil—try not to submerge it. Fry flat for about 15 seconds, then use your tongs to fold it in half. Fry an additional 30 seconds, flip over, and fry for a final 30 seconds.
At this point the tortilla should be browned lightly in spots but still flexible. Remove it from the oil and drain on your towel-lined baking sheet (try to stand the shells up if you can—it doesn’t always work).
Return the baking sheet to the oven to keep the shells warm. Continue until all the shells are fried. When finished, pour off most of the frying oil, but leave about 1 tablespoon behind in the skillet.
Set the skillet back over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Add the taco seasoning and stir it into the beef until combined.
Add the water and cook, uncovered, for a few minutes until the mixture is bubbling and has thickened.
Assemble your tacos!

Laura J. Boss

Meet Laura J. Boss, a passionate blogger and cooking enthusiast who loves to experiment with different recipes and cuisines from around the world. Born and raised in a small town, I grew up watching my mother cook and developed a keen interest in the art of cooking from an early age.After completing my education, I decided to pursue my passion for cooking and started my own food blog. My blog features a wide range of recipes, from traditional family favorites to fusion dishes that I have created myself. My blog has gained a huge following, with many of my readers trying out my recipes and sharing their own cooking experiences.When I am not cooking up a storm in the kitchen, I enjoy traveling and exploring new cultures. I believe that food is an important part of every culture, and love to learn about new ingredients and cooking techniques from around the world.Through my blog, I aim to inspire and encourage others to cook and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. I believe that cooking is not just about making delicious meals, but also about sharing love and creating memories with family and friends.Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, my blog has something for everyone. So why not give my recipes a try and discover the joy of cooking for yourself?