She Strengthens

Experience the Flavorful Twist of Gringo Tacos

Are you ready to indulge in a deliciously unconventional taco experience? Look no further! Gringo tacos, while not traditional, offer a mouthwatering blend of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and more. Perfect for those seeking a quick, easy, and satisfying snack.

A Word of Caution

For our friends who are familiar with authentic Mexican cuisine, please note that these tacos stray from traditional recipes. Real tacos typically feature handmade corn tortillas, homemade salsa, and a variety of imaginatively cooked meats or fillings. Let’s avoid using pre-packaged “taco” shells, “taco” seasoning packets, and bottled salsas. Instead, let’s create something unique and flavorful!

The Recipe

Yields: 12 tacos
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 4 hours
Active Time: 30 minutes

Salsa Ingredients

• 1 small white onion, finely minced
• 2 fresh jalapeno or serrano chiles, finely minced with seeds and pith removed
• 2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or 16 oz. can, drained and saved liquid)

Meat Filling Ingredients

• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp vinegar
• 1 small white onion, finely minced
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 lb lean (15-20%) ground beef
• 2 Tbsp spice mix (see instructions)

Other Ingredients

• Diced tomato (fresh or canned and drained)
• Shredded cheese (good quality jack, cheddar, or your choice)
• Shredded lettuce
• 12 regular size corn tortillas
• Spice mix (see instructions)

Preparing the Salsa

Mix diced tomatoes, onion, and chiles in a bowl. Blend or leave chunky as desired. If salsa is too thick, add a little reserved tomato juice or water. Refrigerate for a few hours or overnight to meld flavors.

Preparing the Spice Mix

Combine 2 Tbsp powdered medium hot chile, 1 Tbsp paprika, 2 tsp powdered hot chile, 1 tsp ground cumin, and 1/2 tsp ground black pepper. Store in a sealed glass container.

Preparing the Meat Filling

Sauté the meat in a skillet until pink color is gone, then drain all but one Tbsp of fat. Add the onion, garlic, salt, spice blend, and sauté until onions are soft. Add vinegar and simmer for one minute.

Assembling the Tacos

Heat a skillet with enough oil to cover the bottom about 1/8 inch. Fry tortillas until just crisp (30 seconds per side); drain on paper towels. Place about one and a half oz of meat filling into the tortilla. Add diced tomato, lettuce, shredded cheese, and salsa to taste.

Enjoy your delicious gringo tacos!