Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water or beef broth
  • 8 small (6-inch) corn tortillas
  • 1 tbsp butter

Instructions:

  1. Place a large skillet over high heat. If using lean beef, add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil.
  2. Add the ground beef to the pan and use a spatula to break the meat into small, uniform crumbles. Cook without stirring too often until the beef is thoroughly browned and mahogany-colored.
  3. If the pan contains excess grease, carefully spoon it out, leaving approximately 1 tablespoon of fat for flavor.
  4. Lower the heat to medium. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper directly onto the meat.
  5. Stir constantly for 60 seconds to bloom the spices until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the 1/2 cup of water or beef broth, stirring well to scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  7. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the liquid reduces and forms a glossy, thick coating around the beef.
  8. Warm the tortillas using 1 tbsp of butter or oil in a separate pan before filling with the seasoned beef.