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Basic Homemade Tacos

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But why not start with these simple tacos? For many families, tacos are a wonderful treat. One that children and adults enjoy, a fairly inexpensive meal with just a few ingredients, and minimal preparation.

By Amanda Formaro

For many families, tacos are a wonderful treat. One that children and adults enjoy, a fairly inexpensive meal with just a few ingredients, and minimal preparation. What I didn't know for many years, during the early stages of my family, was that homemade taco seasoning is just plain better. While packaged seasoning mixes may be simple, quick and convenient, it only takes a few minutes more to measure out the ingredients you need, and the results are definitely noticable.

You will need:

SEASONING MIX
2 tsp instant minced onion
1 tsp salt
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp crushed red peppers
1/2 tsp instant minced garlic
1/4 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp ground cumin
taco seasoning

Combine above ingredients in a small bowl or container and set aside.

You will also need:

1 lb. ground beef
1/4 - 1/2 cup water
lettuce, shredded
cheddar cheesed, shredded
onion, chopped
tomatoes, chopped
soft and/or hard taco shells
hot or mild sauce, bottled (optional)

Brown ground beef and drain off fat. Add water and dry seasoning mixture. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 20-25 minutes. If mixture gets too thick before cooking is complete, add a small amount of water to thin. Serve on soft or hard taco shells topped with your favorite vegetables and sauce.

Amanda Formaro is the entrepreneurial mother of four children. She is also the owner of FamilyCorner.com Magazine at http://familycorner.com from which she operates several free newsletters, including her favorite, In The Kitchen.