The Ultimate Homemade Tacos Recipe

Tacos are one of the most delicious and versatile dishes, perfect for any meal. Whether you love beef, chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian tacos, this guide will cover everything from homemade tortillas to flavorful fillings and toppings.

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Ingredients for Tacos

For the Tortillas (Optional but Recommended)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (for flour tortillas) or masa harina (for corn tortillas)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard

For the Protein (Choose One or Mix)

Beef Tacos

• 1 pound ground beef or steak (such as flank or sirloin)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ onion, finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Chicken Tacos

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Juice of 1 lime

Shrimp Tacos

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Juice of 1 lime

Vegetarian Tacos

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans or chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Toppings and Garnishes

• 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup diced onions
• ½ cup chopped cilantro
• 1 avocado, sliced or mashed into guacamole
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, cotija, or queso fresco)
• ½ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• Salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
• Lime wedges for serving

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Step 1: Make the Tortillas (If Using Homemade)

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour (or masa harina) and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and oil, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about five minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 20 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls (about golf ball size). Roll each one into a thin circle.
5. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and cook each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side until lightly browned.

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Step 2: Cook the Protein

For Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté for one minute.
3. Add ground beef or steak strips and cook until browned.
4. Stir in salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and lime juice. Cook for another two minutes, then remove from heat.

For Chicken

1. Coat the chicken breasts with olive oil and seasonings.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for about six to seven minutes per side until fully cooked.
3. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice or shred.

For Shrimp

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and seasonings, cooking for about two to three minutes per side until pink and opaque.
3. Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp.

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For Vegetarian

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, and corn, sautéing until slightly softened.
3. Add black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt, stirring to combine.
4. Cook for another two to three minutes and remove from heat.

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Step 3: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds.
2. Fill each tortilla with your chosen protein or vegetarian filling.
3. Add toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, avocado, cheese, and sour cream.
4. Drizzle with salsa and garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

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Tips for the Best Tacos

• Warm the tortillas before assembling for better flavor and flexibility.
• Use fresh lime juice to enhance the taste of the protein.
• Experiment with toppings like pickled onions, jalapeños, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
• If making ahead, store cooked protein separately and assemble tacos just before serving.

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