Classic Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa

Tacos are more than just a dish; they are a cultural phenomenon that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. Originating from Mexico, tacos have evolved into a versatile culinary staple, embraced by various cultures and enjoyed in countless forms. From street vendors in bustling cities to family gatherings around the dinner table, tacos offer a delightful balance of flavors, textures, and aromas, making them a beloved choice for many. Among the myriad of taco variations, the classic beef taco stands out as a time-honored favorite, celebrated for its simplicity and robust flavor.

Classic Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa

Dive into the delicious world of classic beef tacos, a beloved dish that offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Originating from Mexico, tacos have become a global favorite, easily customizable to suit every palate. Prepare your beef filling with sautéed onions and garlic, blend in tasty spices, and serve in warm tortillas with fresh salsa. Perfect for gatherings, these tacos promise to create lasting memories around the dinner table while delivering comfort with every bite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (opt for 80/20 for optimal flavor)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt (adjust according to taste)

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup beef broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Fresh Salsa:

2 medium tomatoes, diced

½ red onion, finely chopped

1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely diced (adjust to your spice preference)

¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Juice of 1 lime

Salt, to taste

For Assembly:

8 small corn or flour tortillas

1 cup shredded lettuce (romaine or iceberg)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

½ cup sour cream (optional)

Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Beef Filling:

- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.

- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic fragrance.

- Raise the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is nicely browned, approximately 5-7 minutes.

- Incorporate the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper into the beef mixture, stirring well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

- Pour in the beef broth, stir to combine, and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Fresh Salsa:

- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Gently toss all ingredients together to blend the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice as needed. Set aside.

Prepare the Tortillas:

- Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Warm each tortilla individually for about 30 seconds on each side until they become pliable and slightly toasted. Keep the warmed tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to retain heat.

Assemble the Tacos:

- Lay a generous scoop of the beef filling in the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, a handful of cheddar cheese, and a spoonful of the fresh salsa. If desired, add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Serve:

- Serve the tacos immediately, accompanied by lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Delight in the vibrant explosion of flavors in every bite!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6 tacos

- Presentation Tips: Arrange the assembled tacos on a colorful platter. Throw in some fresh cilantro sprigs as garnish and place the lime wedges artistically around the platter for a visually appealing display. Enjoy!