Seasoned Ground Beef for Tacos

1. 1
   prep · ~3 min

   Prep the onion and garlic.

   1.Finely dice 1 medium onion.

   2.Mince 3 garlic cloves.
2. 2
   fry · ~7 min

   Brown the ground beef.

   1.Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   2.Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon.

   3.Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.

   4.Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.

   TIPDraining the fat but keeping a tablespoon gives the best flavor without greasiness.
3. 3
   saute · ~5 min

   Cook the aromatics.

   1.Push the beef to one side of the skillet.

   2.Add 1 teaspoon oil to the empty side and toss in the diced onion.

   3.Cook until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

   4.Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

   TIPCooking the onion in the same pan picks up all the browned bits from the beef.
4. 4
   saute · ~2 min

   Bloom the spices and tomato paste.

   1.Stir the beef and onions together.

   2.Add 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 teaspoon cumin powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 pinch chili powder, and 0.5 teaspoon salt.

   3.Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.

   TIPBlooming the spices in the hot pan wakes up their flavor — don't skip this step.
5. 5
   simmer · ~4 min

   Simmer with water until absorbed.

   1.Pour in 60 ml water and stir to combine.

   2.Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the liquid reduces and coats the meat.

   3.Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

   TIPThe small amount of water helps the spices meld into the meat without making it saucy.
6. 6
   garnish · ~1 min

   Finish with lime and cilantro.

   1.Remove from heat.

   2.Squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the beef.

   3.Scatter 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro on top.
7. 7
   serve

   Serve immediately in warm taco shells with your favorite toppings.

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