Granny’s Crispy Tacos
Granny’s Crispy Tacos are a beloved family favorite that bring together rich flavors and delightful textures. The combination of seasoned ground beef and crispy shredded potatoes creates a hearty filling, while the homemade salsa adds a fresh and zesty kick.
Perfect for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos are easy to make and sure to satisfy your cravings. Gather your loved ones and enjoy this deliciously comforting dish that’s been passed down through generations!
Granny’s Crispy Tacos
Ingredients:
For the Tacos:
1 lb ground beef
1 cup shredded potatoes
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
A pinch of oregano
For the Salsa:
2 Roma tomatoes
3-4 jalapeños (adjust for spice preference)
½ white onion
2-3 cloves of garlic
Salt, to taste
Additional spices of your choice
Instructions:
Prepare the Taco Filling:
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
Once the beef is cooked through and no longer pink, add the shredded potatoes, salt, pepper, and oregano.
Cook until the potatoes are crispy and golden, stirring occasionally.
Fry the Taco Shells:
In a separate pan, heat oil over medium-high heat.
Carefully fry corn tortillas in the hot oil until they become crispy, about 30 seconds per side.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Salsa:
In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
Add the Roma tomatoes, jalapeños, white onion, and garlic.
Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let it sit for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, blend the mixture until smooth. Season with salt and any additional spices you prefer.
Assemble the Tacos:
Fill the crispy taco shells with the beef and potato mixture.
Top with the fresh salsa.
Serve and Enjoy!
Notes:
Ground Beef Alternatives: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Shredded Potatoes: Use fresh shredded potatoes for the best texture. You can also use frozen hash browns if you’re short on time, but make sure to thaw and drain them first.
Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the number of jalapeños in the salsa to suit your spice preference. Removing the seeds can also reduce the heat.
Crispy Tortillas: For extra crispy tortillas, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. You can test it by dropping a small piece of tortilla in the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready.
Salsa Variations: Customize your salsa by adding ingredients like cilantro, lime juice, or avocado for added flavor and freshness.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the tacos with toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or cheese for added flavor and texture.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store the filling and taco shells separately to maintain their crispiness. Reheat the filling in a skillet and fry fresh tortillas as needed.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 250 | Total Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 400mg | Total Carbohydrates: 20g | Dietary Fiber: 2g | Sugars: 2g | Protein: 10g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make the taco filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and potato filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Just reheat it before filling the tacos.
What type of tortillas should I use?
Corn tortillas are traditional for tacos and will give you the best flavor and texture.
However, you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer shell.
How can I make these tacos healthier?
To make the tacos healthier, consider using lean ground beef, reducing the amount of oil for frying, or opting for baked tortillas.
You can also add more veggies to the filling or serve with a side salad.
What can I substitute for the jalapeños in the salsa?
If you prefer a milder salsa, you can use bell peppers instead of jalapeños or omit them altogether.
You can also use canned green chiles for a different flavor.
Can I freeze the taco filling?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked taco filling in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to shred potatoes for the filling?
You can use a box grater or a food processor to shred the potatoes.
Make sure to rinse them in cold water after shredding to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a crispier texture.
How do I know when the tortillas are done frying?
Fry the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Can I use pre-cooked or frozen shredded potatoes?
Yes, pre-cooked or frozen shredded potatoes can be used.
Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Is it necessary to cover the salsa while it steeps?
Yes, covering the salsa while it steeps helps to steam the ingredients, which softens them and enhances the flavors.
It also helps to preserve the heat from the jalapeños.
What toppings can I add to my tacos?
You can customize your tacos with various toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cheese, or fresh cilantro to enhance the flavor and texture.