Perfecting Homemade Beef Tacos: Tips and Tricks for a Zesty and Delicious Meal

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Discussion Overview

This thread centers around participants sharing their experiences and tips related to making homemade beef tacos, particularly addressing issues of consistency and flavor. Several users recount their attempts at preparing tacos, discussing the challenges they faced, especially regarding the runniness of the filling.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expressed concern about their tacos being too soupy, noting that their family found it to be the worst meal they had made.
  • Another participant suggested using less water, while others agreed that omitting water entirely might be beneficial.
  • Some participants mentioned that using thick and chunky salsa could help with consistency, with one stating they had no issues with runniness when using this type of salsa.
  • Several users shared their experiences with different types of ground meat, discussing whether or not to drain the fat, with some expressing that it was necessary to drain turkey but not lean beef.
  • One participant noted that they had to add extra water to their mixture due to it being too thick, highlighting differing experiences regarding the moisture levels in the taco filling.
  • Another participant shared a positive experience with their tacos, indicating that their family enjoyed them and they did not encounter issues with runniness.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the appropriate amount of water to add to the taco filling, with some participants advocating for less or none at all, while others have had success with different methods. There is no clear consensus on the best approach to achieve the desired consistency.

Contextual Notes

Participants shared a variety of personal experiences with taco preparation, including the types of salsa and ground meat used, as well as cooking techniques. The discussion reflects a range of cooking styles and preferences within the community.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on preparing beef tacos and addressing common issues related to consistency and flavor may find this discussion helpful.

straitfan
straitfan
Gold Member
Messages
1,455
Ok--I have my first power cooking show tomorrow night. I made the Hoagies last week and we ate them on the spot, and I put the sloppy joes and tacos in the freezer. We had the tacos tonight and they were WAY too soupy. My DS informed me it was the worst meal I'd ever made! :cry:

(other than being runny, I didn't think it was too bad). My host has chosen the tacso as one of her choices. (We're freezing them) What can I do differently to make them not so runny?

TIA!
 
I only add about half the water. That'll definitely help - and make sure you use the thick and chunky salsa.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
They were runny enough that maybe I should skip the water entirely? Then maybe she could add it if needed when she prepares it?
 
I thought the tacos were runny too. I don't think I'll add the water next time either. Or just enough to make it "runny" enough.
 
That is so funny because i have had to add extra water due to mine being to thick!
 
Did you use really chunky salsa? I didn't have a problem with them being runny at all. I used thick & chunky salsa. I thought they were great!
 
No issues here at all and I have made them multiple times. Mine tent to be thick but I also let them simmer a bit.
 
I made them once and I don't remember them being runny. That's weird. Maybe it does have something to do with the salsa that you used.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
I'm pretty sure it was Pace Thick, & Chunky. And the mixture simmered on the stove for about 30 minutes because DH was working outside and wouldn't come in to eat!!! Maybe they'll come out differently tonight!
 
So what all did you put in these tacos?
 
The chili was kind of runny so I cooked it longer than it said to thicken it up.
I agree with putting less or no water in them.

Does it bother anyone else that you don't drain the hamburg??
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
YES it bothered me so much that I did! We used turkey last night, and it REALLY needed to be drained.
 
When I've done it, I've used extra lean ground sirloin 96/4. There really isn't anything to drain.

I've done it all with Chopped boneless skinless chicken breast too - that's really good!

For the chicken chili, use white beans, omit the tomatoes, add chicken broth, canned chopped green chilies, and cilantro. Then, when heating, just before serving, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or 1/2 & 1/2, and top with grated cheddar.
 
I made the tacos the other night and my DH loved them. When I made the hamburger, I used a sloted spoon to take the meat out of the pan and there was about a cup of liquid left in the pan. I did add all the water it called for and it did not end up runny. I wonder what the difference is. Maybe it is the kind of salsa.
 
redsoxgirl said:
Does it bother anyone else that you don't drain the hamburg??
Click to expand...

Omgosh...... I can not tell you how long it has been since I have heard/seen someone say Hamburg! If I said that arround here they would think I was nuts!

I love seing you gals from New England on here! You remind me of home!!!

End Hijack...

on the draining thing..... I either use a slotted spoon to spoon out the GB or I push the meet to one side of the pan tilt it and use the reg. Chef tools spoon to get out the liquid.
 
etteluap70PC said:
Omgosh...... I can not tell you how long it has been since I have heard/seen someone say Hamburg! If I said that arround here they would think I was nuts!

I love seing you gals from New England on here! You remind me of home!!!

End Hijack...

on the draining thing..... I either use a slotted spoon to spoon out the GB or I push the meet to one side of the pan tilt it and use the reg. Chef tools spoon to get out the liquid.
Click to expand...
When I was growing up we called it wanna boog.:p
 
redsoxgirl said:
The chili was kind of runny so I cooked it longer than it said to thicken it up.
I agree with putting less or no water in them.

Does it bother anyone else that you don't drain the hamburg??
Click to expand...
I soak up the liquid with a lot of paper towel. I use 2 lbs of Jennie O fresh ground turkey and 1 pound of ground sirloin.
 
In Michigan we call it hamburg too...whatever quality it is (the stores don't though).
 
I made the sloppy joes last night and they were the best I have ever had! I'm not a big sloppy joe fan either! Hubby and I are huge fans of the Sweet and Smoky BBQ! How would you rate the other power cooking recipes? I need to look to see if there is a thread on here about that!
 
We had the hoagies night before last and dh and I loved them - so did my 4yo. My 6yo and twins only ate the bread, lol. My 16 yo said they smelled great, but by the time she got home from work, there weren't any leftovers, lol. (oops!) I've also tried the stroganoff, again to rave reviews by half the family. :) I shouldn't count the opinions of the twins, they really only eat peanut butter or tuna noodle casserole!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #21
I drain the hamburger by using the drainer held over the edge of the skillet and then pouring the grease out into a jar--(I've always done this, with a cheapo drainer before ours came out)
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essential ingredients for making homemade beef tacos?

To make delicious homemade beef tacos, you will need ground beef, taco seasoning, taco shells or tortillas, and toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. You can also add avocado or jalapeños for extra flavor.

How can I enhance the flavor of the ground beef for my tacos?

To enhance the flavor of your ground beef, consider adding minced garlic, chopped onions, or bell peppers while browning the meat. Additionally, using a homemade taco seasoning mix with spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika can elevate the taste significantly.

What type of taco shells should I use for the best homemade tacos?

You can choose between hard taco shells and soft tortillas based on your preference. Hard shells provide a crunchy texture, while soft tortillas offer a more traditional and flexible option. Corn tortillas are a great choice for an authentic flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and easier to fold.

How can I make my homemade beef tacos healthier?

To make your beef tacos healthier, opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey. Load up on fresh vegetables for toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado. You can also use whole grain or corn tortillas instead of traditional flour tortillas and limit high-calorie toppings like cheese and sour cream.

What are some creative toppings I can use for my beef tacos?

In addition to the classic toppings, you can get creative with your beef tacos by adding ingredients like pickled onions, fresh cilantro, diced pineapple, or mango salsa. Crumbled feta or cotija cheese can add a unique twist, and a drizzle of lime juice can enhance the overall flavor.

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