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Air Fryer Taco Bombs: A Quick and Tasty Treat

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, Instagram-worthy snack that is both quick to prepare and easy to devour, look no further than Air Fryer Taco Bombs. These little bundles of joy combine the delightful flavours of a classic taco with the convenience of an air fryer, resulting in a dish that is crispy on the outside and bursting with flavour on the inside. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or a quick weeknight dinner, these taco bombs are sure to impress friends and family alike.

What Are Taco Bombs?

Taco Bombs are essentially bite-sized pockets of dough filled with all your favourite taco ingredients. Picture this: a soft yet slightly crispy outer layer encasing a hearty filling of seasoned meat, melty cheese, and vibrant veggies. The versatility of taco bombs means you can customise them to suit your palate, whether you prefer traditional beef tacos or opt for chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian option with beans and cheese.

The Advantages of Air Frying

Air frying has gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. This cooking method gives you all the crunch of deep-frying without the excessive oil. As a result, you can enjoy your favourite fried foods with fewer calories and less guilt. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, ensuring a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavourful. Plus, cleaning is a breeze compared to traditional frying methods.

Ingredients

Here’s a simple list of ingredients to get you started on your Air Fryer Taco Bombs:

For the Filling:

• 500g minced beef (or your choice of protein)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pouch taco seasoning (or homemade)
• 200g black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 150g grated cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 100g diced bell peppers (optional)

For the Dough:

• 1 packet of refrigerated biscuit dough (or pizza dough if you prefer)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: sliced jalapeños, fresh coriander, or sour cream for serving

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the minced beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent.
2. Drain excess fat if necessary and stir in the taco seasoning. Add the black beans and bell peppers if using. Cook for a further 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Remove from heat and mix in half of the grated cheese.

Step 2: Assemble the Taco Bombs

1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
2. On a clean surface, roll out each piece of biscuit dough into a circle about 10cm in diameter.
3. Place a tablespoon of the filling in the centre of each dough circle and top with a sprinkling of the remaining cheese.
4. Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket, pinching the edges to seal securely. You can also roll them into a ball shape for a fun twist.

Step 3: Cook the Taco Bombs

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Place the assembled taco bombs in the basket, ensuring there is space between each one for even cooking.
3. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the taco bombs from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm with your favourite dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Garnish with fresh coriander and jalapeños for added zest.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Taco Bombs are a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire, combining convenience and flavour in a fun and appetising way. Not only are they a hit with kids, but they also make for a satisfying snack or meal option for adults. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and delight in these tasty treats that bring the joy of tacos right to your fingertips!