Spicy Turkey Chorizo Tacos
A Healthier Take for Taco Tuesday
Jump to the Recipe
Are you craving a flavorful and spicy taco night? This Mexican-style turkey chorizo recipe offers a healthier and leaner alternative to traditional pork chorizo without compromising on flavor. The combination of chili powders, oregano, and garlic creates a bold and spicy flavor profile that's perfect for Taco Tuesdays.
What You Will Need
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons regular chili powder
- 2 teaspoons hot chili powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 ¼ pounds ground turkey (93/7 Lean, not non-fat)
- Corn tortillas
- Your favorite taco toppings (e.g., shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, avocado, hot sauce, salsa, sour cream, lime wedges)
The Process
1. Prepare the Chorizo:
- In a large bowl, combine the chili powders, sea salt, oregano, and garlic powder.
- Stir in the wine vinegar and water.
- Gradually add the ground turkey, mixing thoroughly until all the meat is evenly coated.
2. Form and Cook the Chorizo:
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and form into patties, about ¼ cup each.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Once cooked, break the patties into small chunks.
3. Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the corn or flour tortillas.
- Fill the tortillas with the crumbled chorizo and your desired toppings.
- Serve immediately.
Enjoy these delicious and satisfying tacos!
A Brief History of the Taco
The taco, a beloved dish worldwide, has its roots deep in Mexican culinary history. While its exact origins are somewhat debated, it's clear that the taco has evolved over centuries, influenced by various cultures and culinary traditions.
Early Origins
The earliest form of the taco can be traced back to the Aztec civilization, where corn tortillas were used to wrap various fillings. These early tacos were often simple, consisting of corn tortillas filled with fish or other local ingredients.
The Spanish Influence
With the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, new ingredients like beef, pork, and spices were introduced to Mexico. These new ingredients began to be incorporated into tacos, adding new flavors and textures to the dish.
The Taco's Rise to Popularity
In the 19th century, tacos became increasingly popular among the working class in Mexico, especially among miners. The taco's portability and affordability made it an ideal meal for busy workers.
The Taco's Journey to the United States
Mexican immigrants brought tacos to the United States in the early 20th century, and the dish quickly gained popularity. Taco stands and restaurants began to appear in cities like Los Angeles, where they were embraced by American diners. The hard-shell taco, a popularized version in the US, was invented in the mid-20th century.
Today, tacos are enjoyed worldwide and have become a staple of Mexican cuisine. The versatility of the taco, with its endless possibilities for fillings and toppings, has contributed to its enduring popularity.