Taco Meat

This recipe makes the basis for an easy dinner the boys love.  I find the taco seasoning packets from the grocery store end up runny and you get the juice all over the place.  The key is the flour mixed into the ground meat before cooking.  Since you can't drain the fat off after browning the meat, you need to use lean meat like ground sirlion or turkey.  In a pinch, I can get this done in about 15 mins.  If I have time, I will saute fresh onions and garlic instead of the dried stuff.  I like the cayene pepper but one of my kids complains if I over do it.  Alternatively, you can use tortillas for soft tacos.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef (or turkey)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried minced onion or 1/4 cups diced fresh onion
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (skip if using fresh onions)
• dash garlic powder or 1 clove minced garlic
• dash cayene pepper (optional)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil (if using fresh onions and garlic)
• 1/2 cup water
• Hard taco shells or soft
• 2 cups shredded lettuce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef with the flour, chili powder, salt, minced onion, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Use your hands to thoroughly mix the ingredients into the ground beef.  (if using fresh onions and garlic, then omit from mix)
2. If using fresh onions, saute onions in skillet until translucent over medium heat (2 - 4 minutes).  When the onions are almost ready, add the garlic for the last minute.
3. Add the seasoned beef mixture and water to a skillet over medium heat. Mix well with a wooden spoon or spatula, and break up the meat as it cooks. Heat for 5 to 6 minutes, or until browned. The finished product should be very smooth, somewhat pasty, with no large chunks of beef remaining.
4. If using hard taco shells,
   1. heat them in a 375 degree oven for about 5 minutes.
   2. Build each taco by spooning 2 to 3 tablespoons of the meat into a warm shell. Spread some of the shredded lettuce over the meat and then sprinkle some cheese over the top. Repeat with the remaining ingredients and serve immediately.
5. If using soft tortillas,
   1. warm them on a skillet over low heat.
   2. Add shredded cheese, then the meat and finally any veggies you like.  When the cheese has melted, fold them over and heat from a bit more.  Serve immediately.