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Classic Beef Tacos
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Ingredients
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Step by step
Method
4 steps
- 1
In a large skillet over medium-high, cook 1 lb lean ground beef with 1 small finely diced onion, breaking up the meat, 6–8 minutes until browned and the onion softens. Drain excess fat if the pan is swimming.
- 2
Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon oregano, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Cook 30 seconds until the spices bloom and smell warm — don't let the garlic scorch.
- 3
Pour in ⅓ cup water or low-sodium beef broth and simmer 2–3 minutes until the beef is juicy and glossy but not soupy. Taste and add salt if needed. Meanwhile, warm 8–10 small corn or flour tortillas and mix ½ cup finely diced white onion with ½ cup chopped cilantro for topping.
- 4
Spoon beef into warm tortillas, pile on the cilantro-onion mix, salsa, and cheese or cotija if you like. Squeeze lime over the top. You want juicy seasoned taco beef with fresh cilantro-onion crunch — not dry dusty meat or a watery skillet that soaks the tortillas.