How to Make Tacos
Hard shell tacos became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly through Mexican-American cuisine. The pre-fried, crispy taco shell was commercialized in the 1940s, with fast-food chains like Taco Bell helping to popularize it nationwide. While traditional Mexican tacos use soft corn tortillas, the hard shell taco became a convenient, mass-produced variation that remains a staple in Americanized Mexican food today.
Learn more about Tacos.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (or 2 2bsp) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 8-10 hard taco shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup guacamole (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Cooking Directions
- Cook the beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Season the beef: Drain excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water, and stir well to coat the beef. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens, then remove from heat.
- Prepare the taco shells: heat taco shells in the oven for 1 minute.
- Assemble the tacos: spoon beef into taco shells. Add preferred toppings.
- Serve, and enjoy!