Fantastic Turkey Tacos: A Flavorful Family Favorite
When it comes to tacos, few dishes can rival the satisfying crunch and myriad flavors found in this Fantastic Turkey Tacos recipe, a delightful adaptation inspired by the culinary expertise of Brooke Dojny and Melanie Barnard from their book Let’s Eat In. This recipe is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes, making it an ideal choice for a fun family meal that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re celebrating a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, these tacos are sure to impress.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Poultry |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 45 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 10 minutes |
| Servings | 12 tacos |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Review Count | 2 reviews |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 237.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 49.7 mg |
| Sodium | 352.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 12.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 1.8 g |
| Protein | 12.9 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canola oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic clove, minced | 1 clove |
| Ground turkey | 1 pound |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, grated | 12 ounces |
| Romaine lettuce, shredded | 2 cups |
| Red leaf lettuce, shredded | 2 cups |
| Scallions, sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Black olives, sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Salsa | To serve |
Instructions
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Prepare the Skillet: Begin your culinary adventure by heating the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil serves as a foundation for the incredible flavors to come, so ensure it’s hot but not smoking.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing them for about three minutes. You’re looking for the onions to become translucent and fragrant, a tantalizing prelude to the main event.
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Cook the Turkey: Incorporate the ground turkey into the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir and cook until the turkey is no longer pink, which should take about five minutes. This step is essential for achieving a well-cooked and flavorful filling.
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Add Spices: Sprinkle in the ground cumin and allow it to cook with the turkey for one minute. This will awaken the spice and allow its robust flavor to infuse the meat.
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Simmer with Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and water, stirring well to combine. Reduce the heat to low, partially cover the skillet, and let it simmer for ten minutes. This slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully.
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Thicken the Mixture: After simmering, increase the heat to medium, uncover the skillet, and allow the mixture to simmer for an additional five minutes. You want it to thicken considerably, creating a rich, hearty filling without becoming dry.
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Finish the Filling: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and chopped cilantro, seasoning with salt to taste. This final addition elevates the dish with a fresh kick and a delightful herbaceous note.
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Prepare Taco Shells: While the turkey mixture is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the taco shells on a baking sheet, preparing them to be warmed, which enhances their crunchiness.
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Gather Toppings: In the meantime, prepare the toppings: grate the sharp cheddar cheese, shred the romaine and red leaf lettuce, slice the scallions, and cut the black olives. Place each topping in separate bowls for easy access during taco assembly.
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Heat the Taco Shells: Once the turkey mixture is nearly done, place the taco shells in the preheated oven for about five minutes. This quick heating will give them that irresistible crispy texture that makes tacos so enjoyable.
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Assemble the Tacos: When everything is ready, invite your family to the table for a fun taco assembly experience. Spoon some of the turkey mixture into the bottom of each warmed taco shell and let everyone add their choice of toppings from the bowls provided.
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Add the Finishing Touch: To complete each taco, consider a sprinkle of hot sauce, taco sauce, or your favorite salsa for that extra zing. The combination of flavors and textures will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
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Storage Note: If you have any filling leftover, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days, allowing for quick and easy taco nights in the future.
Conclusion
These Fantastic Turkey Tacos are not only a delightful addition to your family’s meal rotation but also a testament to the joy of cooking together. With vibrant flavors and the fun of taco night, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home, inviting everyone to indulge in a deliciously satisfying dining experience that is both wholesome and exciting. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share the love with your friends and family!
