As I enter my kitchen, the smell of sizzling beef and spices greets me. It brings back memories of family meals and Mexican flavors. Carne picada holds a special spot in my heart, reminding me of those times.
Carne picada tacos are more than just food. They’re a journey of flavors, with tender beef, fresh veggies, and spices. They’re perfect for anyone who loves tacos or wants to try something new. This recipe will surely make your taste buds happy.
In this article, we’ll explore carne picada’s roots, ingredients, and how to make it at home. Get ready to taste the real Mexico and make your taco night unforgettable with these tasty tacos.
Table of Contents
What is Carne Picada?
Carne picada is a traditional Mexican dish known for its tender, slow-cooked beef. The name “carne picada” means “minced meat” in English. But it’s not ground beef. Instead, it’s made from beef chuck roast or other cuts that are cooked until they’re very tender. Then, they’re chopped into smaller pieces.
This makes a flavorful, savory meat filling. It’s often used in tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes.
A Traditional Mexican Dish Featuring Tender Braised Beef
The secret to making real carne picada is slow cooking. The beef, like chuck roast or bottom round, is simmered with veggies, spices, and seasonings. This makes the meat tender and easy to shred or chop.
This braised beef is the main ingredient in many Mexican dishes. It’s used in tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and more.
Ingredients in carne picada include poblano peppers, onions, garlic, chipotle peppers, and diced tomatoes. The meat is seasoned with cumin, oregano, chili powder, and other spices. This gives it a rich, complex flavor.
After cooking, the beef is minced or chopped. This makes it perfect for filling tacos or other Mexican dishes.
If you’re planning a Mexican feast or just want a tasty protein, carne picada is a great choice. Its tender texture and bold flavor make it a favorite in many homes.
Authentic Carne Picada Tacos
Dive into the vibrant world of Mexico with carne picada tacos. This dish is a mix of tender beef and warm tortillas. The carne picada is seasoned and cooked to perfection.
These Mexican tacos come with traditional toppings. You’ll find diced onions, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Together, they create a flavor mix that feels like Mexico.
If you love taco recipes or want to try something new, these carne picada tacos are perfect. Enjoy the bold flavors and experience true Mexican cuisine.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 514.9kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 26.3g |
| Protein | 35.4g |
| Fat | 30.7g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.3g |
| Cholesterol | 98.3mg |
| Sodium | 201.9mg |
| Fiber | 5.6g |
| Sugar | 0.9g |
“Carne picada tacos are a true taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Mexico.”
Carne Picada Taco Ingredients
Creating the perfect carne picada taco filling requires a few key ingredients. The main ingredient is the carne picada itself. It’s tender, seasoned cubed beef that’s been simmered slowly in a flavorful broth until it’s incredibly tender.
Staples for an Authentic Mexican Taco Filling
To make this delicious taco filling, you’ll need a few ingredients:
- 1 lb (500 grams) of chuck steak or roast, cubed
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
- 1 teaspoon each of cumin seeds, black pepper, dried oregano, and chili powder
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup (150 grams or 5 oz) of diced green bell pepper
- 1 can of whole or diced tomatoes
- Optional: Jalapeño slices
- Salt, olive oil, and brown sugar to taste
These ingredients come together to make a flavorful Mexican taco filling. The key is slow simmering the beef. This lets the spices soak in and the meat become tender.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chuck Steak or Roast | 1 lb (500 grams) |
| All-Purpose Flour or Gluten-Free Flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion | 1 small, diced |
| Green Bell Pepper | 1 cup (150 grams or 5 oz), diced |
| Canned Tomatoes | 1 can, whole or diced |
| Jalapeño Slices | Optional |
| Salt, Olive Oil, Brown Sugar | To taste |
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious carne picada taco filling. It will take you straight to the heart of Mexico.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making tasty carne picada tacos at home is easy. First, season the beef with spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and coriander. Then, sear the beef in a hot pan to keep the juices in and get a nice crust.
Next, sauté onions, garlic, and jalapeños until they’re soft and smell great. Add the seared beef, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pan. Let it simmer for 30 minutes until the beef is tender and the flavors mix well.
- Season the beef with a blend of spices, including smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and coriander.
- Sear the seasoned beef in a hot pan to lock in the juices and create a nice crust.
- Sauté the onions, garlic, and jalapeños until softened and fragrant.
- Add the seared beef back to the pan, along with diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have blended.
To serve, fill warm tortillas with the flavorful carne picada. Top with chopped onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. The secret to great carne picada tacos is to let the beef simmer until it’s very tender. Follow these steps to enjoy authentic Mexican-style tacos quickly.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Beef Chuck Roast | 3 pounds |
| Smoked Paprika | 2 teaspoons |
| Chili Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Coriander | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion | 1 large, diced |
| Garlic Cloves | 3, minced |
| Jalapeño | 1, seeded and diced |
| Diced Tomatoes | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
| Beef Broth | 1 cup |
This recipe makes 8 servings, with 2 tacos per serving. Each serving has 380 calories, 20g of fat, and 7g of saturated fat. It also has 24g of carbs, 3g of sugar, 4g of fiber, and 26g of protein. The sodium is 535mg, and cholesterol is 74mg per serving.
The Best Taco Toppings
Making the perfect carne picada tacos is all about the toppings. These Mexican-inspired delights are like a blank canvas. You can customize them with a variety of flavorful and vibrant taco toppings. From classic options to bold additions, the possibilities are endless.
Some of the most popular and beloved taco toppings for carne picada include:
- Diced onion
- Chopped cilantro
- Crumbled cotija cheese
- Sliced radishes
- Avocado or guacamole
- Salsa
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice
For those who crave a bit more heat, you can also top your carne picada tacos with sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers. The combination of tender, flavorful carne picada and your preferred toppings creates a truly mouthwatering and authentic Mexican taco experience.
| Taco Topping | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Diced Onion | Savory, slightly pungent | Crunchy |
| Chopped Cilantro | Bright, herbaceous | Fresh, crisp |
| Crumbled Cotija Cheese | Salty, slightly tangy | Crumbly, dry |
| Sliced Radishes | Peppery, refreshing | Crisp, juicy |
| Avocado or Guacamole | Creamy, rich, and buttery | Smooth, velvety |
| Salsa | Spicy, tangy, and flavorful | Chunky, diced |
| Lime Juice | Bright, acidic, and zesty | Liquid, tart |
| Sliced Jalapeños or Serranos | Fiery, pungent, and spicy | Crisp, juicy |
By experimenting with different taco toppings, you can create a truly customized and delicious carne picada taco experience. The beauty of these tacos is that they allow you to express your personal flair and culinary creativity.
Serving Suggestions
Versatile ways to enjoy carne picada
Carne picada is a versatile Mexican filling. It’s not just for tacos. This tender beef can make many dishes better, pleasing everyone. It’s great for dinner or lunch, with lots of tasty options.
Try it over Mexican-style rice or refried beans. The beef and rice or beans make a perfect Mexican meal. You can also add it to burrito bowls with avocado, salsa, and cheese.
For something different, use it in mulitas, tacos dorados, or a cheesy dip. Its flexibility lets you try new flavors in the kitchen.
Carne picada is a hit with family and friends. Its rich flavors and tender texture make any Mexican meal special.
| Serving Suggestion | Description |
|---|---|
| Tacos | The classic way to enjoy carne picada, wrapped in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings. |
| Burrito Bowls | Serve carne picada over rice or in a bowl with beans, salsa, avocado, and other toppings. |
| Rice or Beans | Pair the flavorful beef with Mexican-style rice or refried beans for a satisfying meal. |
| Mulitas | Use carne picada as the filling for these delicious double-decker quesadillas. |
| Tacos Dorados | Stuff fried taco shells with carne picada for a delightful crunch. |
| Carne Picada Dip | Chop the beef and mix it into a creamy, cheesy dip for chips and veggies. |
Carne picada is versatile and delicious, perfect for many Mexican dishes. It can be in tacos, burrito bowls, dips, or casseroles. The options are endless for this flavorful beef.
Carne Picada Tacos: A Family Favorite
Carne picada tacos have been loved in Mexican homes for many years. The mix of tender beef and soft tortillas makes a meal that everyone enjoys. You can add different toppings to make them even better, perfect for family meals.
These carne picada tacos are great for any family gathering. The recipe is simple, and the taste is always good. It’s perfect for busy nights or special weekends.
Carne picada tacos are loved because they can be served in many ways. You can put the beef in tortillas, over rice, or as a main dish. This makes them easy to adapt for different tastes and occasions.
“The carne picada tacos turned out amazing! They tasted just like the ones we’d get at our favorite taco truck. My whole family loved them.”
– Tony, 5-star review
It’s easy to see why carne picada tacos are a hit in many Mexican families. They’re perfect for any meal, whether it’s a big gathering or a quiet dinner at home.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips
Make your weeknights easier with these carne picada tacos meal prep tips. The carne picada filling is perfect for making ahead. This way, you can enjoy real Mexican flavors with little effort.
Batch Cooking for Convenience
Make a big batch of carne picada on the weekend or a day off. This flavorful beef keeps well in the fridge for 4 days or in the freezer for longer. Just reheat it when you’re ready to make tacos with your favorite toppings.
Prepped Toppings
- Chop onions, peppers, and other taco toppings ahead of time.
- Keep these prepped ingredients in the fridge for quick assembly.
- This make-ahead carne picada plan saves time on busy weeknights.
Freezer-Friendly
The carne picada filling is great for freezing. You can freeze it in individual or family-sized portions for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or reheat it straight from the freezer for a quick easy carne picada taco night.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 mins | 15 mins | 6 hrs 40 mins | 6 |
With these carne picada tacos meal prep tips, you can enjoy carne picada tacos any night. Batch cooking and prepping toppings ahead of time make taco nights easy and stress-free.
Nutrition Information
Carne picada tacos are not only tasty but also healthy when part of a balanced diet. The beef chuck roast is a lean cut, rich in protein and nutrients. Adding toppings like onions, peppers, and cilantro makes the tacos a complete meal.
The tortillas, whether corn or flour, add some carbohydrates. Enjoying them in moderation is key to a healthy diet. With high-quality ingredients and portion control, carne picada tacos are both satisfying and nutritious.
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 291 |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Sodium | 489mg |
| Potassium | 724mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
By choosing quality ingredients and portion sizes, carne picada tacos become a nutritious Mexican-inspired dish. The lean beef, rich toppings, and moderate tortillas make it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.
“The dish tasted as good as or even better than a restaurant-prepared meal.”
– Tony, 5-star reviewer
Conclusion
Carne picada tacos bring the real taste of Mexico right to your plate. They are both tasty and filling. The beef is slow-cooked until it’s soft and full of flavor.
When you add warm tortillas, onions, cilantro, and a bit of lime, it’s like a trip to Mexico. These carne picada tacos are a true delight.
These tacos are perfect for any meal, whether it’s for your family or a Taco Tuesday party. They are easy to make and pack a punch of flavor. Carne picada tacos are a must-try for anyone who loves Mexican food.
They let you enjoy the rich, comforting tastes of Mexico from home. It’s a simple yet delicious way to spice up your meals.
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, carne picada tacos are a breeze to make. They offer a bold, savory taste that will leave you wanting more. Try them today and experience the authentic flavors of Mexico.