The Best Ground Beef Taco Meat Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 6 servings and was developed at its original amount. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted when scaling the recipe, but cooking times and steps remain the same. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 pounds ground round
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 3 tablespoons taco seasoning (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3/4 cup water

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up the clumps with a spatula, until the fat renders out and the beef starts to brown, which should take about 4 minutes.

2. Add the chopped onion and cook while stirring constantly, until the onion softens and the beef becomes crumbly, about 4 minutes. If desired, drain any excess fat.

3. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute, stirring to combine.

4. Add the tomato paste and water, using a spoon to loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir everything until fully combined.

5. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Homemade Taco Seasoning

You can use this recipe to create a flavorful taco seasoning at home. It adds the perfect kick to your taco filling!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	317
Total Fat	17g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	101mg
Sodium	414mg
Total Carbohydrate	5g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	32g
Vitamin C	2mg
Calcium	32mg
Iron	4mg
Potassium	590mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Ground Beef Taco Meat

Tacos, one of the most beloved staples of Mexican cuisine, trace their roots back to the indigenous peoples of the Valley of Mexico. Originally, tacos were simple, portable meals made with tortillas filled with local meats, beans, and vegetables. Ground beef tacos, as we know them today, became popular in the United States in the 20th century, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s, as Mexican-American communities adapted traditional recipes to suit locally available ingredients and American palates. This evolution created the rich, spiced ground beef mixture that forms the base of countless taco variations.

Regional Variations and Distinctive Features

While the concept of taco meat is widespread, regional differences are pronounced. In Northern Mexico, beef is the protein of choice, often cooked with a blend of chili powders, cumin, and garlic. In contrast, the southern regions may incorporate pork, chicken, or seafood, accompanied by more herbs and fresh salsas. Tex-Mex cuisine, originating in Texas, adds a distinctive twist, featuring ground beef browned with onions, tomato paste, and a commercial or homemade taco seasoning, resulting in a slightly sweeter, more heavily spiced flavor compared to traditional Mexican tacos.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Ground beef taco meat stands apart from other taco fillings, such as carnitas, carne asada, or shredded chicken, primarily due to its texture and cooking method. Unlike slow-cooked meats, the beef is browned quickly, retaining moisture while allowing the spices to penetrate. The combination of ground meat with onions and tomato paste creates a hearty, crumbly consistency that perfectly hugs the tortilla, unlike shredded meats which can be more fibrous or sauces that are more liquid.

Where Its Typically Served

This versatile taco meat appears in a variety of settings, from family dinners and casual home gatherings to taco trucks and Mexican-American restaurants. It is the go-to filling for hard shell tacos, soft tortillas, taco salads, and even nachos. Its convenience and flavor make it a favorite for weeknight meals, school lunches, and festive occasions alike.

Interesting Facts

• Ground beef tacos are considered a quintessential example of Tex-Mex cuisine, highlighting the blend of Mexican and American culinary traditions.
• Homemade taco seasoning allows customization of spice levels, from mild to fiery, catering to personal taste preferences.
• The dishs adaptability has inspired countless creative recipes, including taco casseroles, stuffed peppers, and taco-stuffed baked potatoes.
• Taco meats popularity skyrocketed in the mid-20th century due to its simplicity, affordability, and compatibility with tortillas, which were easier to mass-produce and widely available in the U.S.
• Despite its American adaptations, ground beef taco meat remains a delicious homage to traditional Mexican street food, showcasing the enduring global influence of Mexican cuisine.

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