Image Source from 2marshaann

Delicious Beef Taquitos: Baked or Air Fried Ground Beef Treats

Taquitos, a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine, are rolled tortillas stuffed with various fillings, often enjoyed as a snack or a satisfying meal. In recent years, home cooks in the UK have taken a keen interest in these delectable treats, particularly when it comes to accommodating healthier cooking methods. Baked or air-fried beef taquitos offer a guilt-free option without compromising on taste and texture. In this article, we’ll explore a simple recipe for beef taquitos and discuss the benefits of both baking and air frying.

Ingredients

To begin, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Beef Filling:

  • 500g minced beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 100g cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend), grated
  • Fresh coriander, chopped (optional)
• For the Taquitos:
  • 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Olive oil or cooking spray for brushing
  • Optional toppings: salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or shredded lettuce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

1. Cook the Beef: In a large frying pan over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for a further minute until fragrant. Stir in the minced beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned.

2. Season the Meat: Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed. Cook for another 5 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and flavours have melded together.

3. Add Cheese: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the grated cheese and fresh coriander, if using. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Taquitos

1. Warm the Tortillas: If using corn tortillas, warm them in a frying pan or microwave, as this makes them pliable and easier to roll.

2. Fill and Roll: Place a small amount of the beef mixture along the edge of each tortilla. Roll them tightly, ensuring the filling is secure. You can use a toothpick to hold them together if necessary.

Step 3: Cooking Methods

1. Baking:

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or Gas Mark 6.
   • Arrange the taquitos seam-side down on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
2. Air Frying:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 190°C.
   • Place the taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to do this in batches.
   • Spray lightly with cooking oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your taquitos are cooked to perfection, serve them with your choice of toppings such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. They make an excellent appetiser, party snack, or a fun weeknight dinner.

Why Baked or Air-Fried Taquitos?

Using baked or air-fried methods instead of traditional deep-frying significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, resulting in a healthier dish that maintains a satisfying crunch. Both techniques also offer convenience, enabling busy cooks to whip up a batch of these tasty treats with minimal effort.

Conclusion

Baked or air-fried beef taquitos are a delightful addition to any mealtime repertoire. The combination of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese wrapped in a crispy shell is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a full meal, adapting traditional recipes for modern lifestyles is a rewarding endeavour that continues to bring the flavours of Mexico into kitchens across the UK. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in these mouthwatering beef taquitos today!