Frequently Asked Questions
What are Family Fiesta Tacos?
Family Fiesta Tacos are a cherished family recipe featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh toppings, and crispy corn tortillas, traditionally served on Friday nights.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of ground beef.
How should the onions be prepared?
The 1/2 onion should be diced before being added to the skillet with the beef.
What spices are needed for the taco meat?
The seasoning includes 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of mild chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of cilantro.
How much tomato paste is used?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to be stirred into the meat mixture.
What kind of tortillas are recommended?
This recipe uses 12 corn tortillas which are quickly fried to form the taco shape.
How long should I simmer the meat mixture?
Allow the meat mixture to simmer for about 5-10 minutes to help the flavors meld together.
How do I fry the taco shells?
Fry each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side, folding it in half while it fries to create the classic taco shape.
What is the recommended oil depth for frying?
You should aim for a depth of no more than 3 inches of oil to make handling the shells easier.
Should I drain the grease from the meat?
Yes, after browning the meat and onions, you should drain any excess grease before adding the spices.
What toppings should I prepare for serving?
Suggested toppings include shredded cheese, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, sour cream, and taco sauce.
How much cheese is needed for the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of shredded cheese.
How much lettuce and tomato should I prepare?
Prepare 1 cup of shredded lettuce and 1 chopped tomato for the topping station.
What size pan is best for frying the shells?
Use a frying pan that is just slightly larger than the taco shells for efficient frying.
Is the chili powder used spicy?
The recipe specifically recommends using mild chili powder.
How much sour cream is suggested?
The recipe suggests having 1/2 cup of sour cream available for serving.
When should the tacos be assembled?
Assemble the tacos once the shells are ready and still warm by filling each with the beef mixture.
What type of cuisine is this recipe?
These tacos are categorized under Mexican cuisine.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and easy cooking, perfect for family dinners.
Can I customize these tacos?
Absolutely; the recipe suggests serving toppings in bowls so everyone can customize their tacos to their liking.
How many ingredients are in this recipe in total?
There are 14 total ingredients listed for this recipe.
What is the significance of this recipe to the author?
It is a nostalgic favorite that has been a Friday night tradition for their children for many years.
Should I use fresh or dried cilantro?
While not specified, the recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of cilantro to be stirred into the meat during the simmering process.
How many tacos does the recipe make?
The recipe uses 12 corn tortillas, making approximately 12 tacos.
Do I need to heat the taco sauce?
The recipe lists taco sauce as a topping for serving, usually served at room temperature or chilled.
What should I do with the shells after frying?
You should drain the freshly fried shells on paper towels before filling them.
Can I make these for a casual gathering?
Yes, the description highlights that these are perfect for hosting casual gatherings and creating lasting memories.
Is the onion cooked with the beef?
Yes, the diced onions are added to the skillet with the ground beef and cooked until the meat is browned.
What happens if the oil runs low while frying?
The instructions suggest adding more oil as necessary while frying the tortillas.
Are these considered comfort food?
Yes, 'comfort food' is one of the primary tags for this Family Fiesta Taco recipe.