Tacos!

Here is my favorite way to make tacos.  Aside from the fact that they are just plain GOOD - I like how you can use leftovers of other items in them - like shredded cabbage, for example.

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 bell pepper, diced

1 shallot, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

salt

1 pound lean ground beef

2 teaspoons cumin

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

1 teaspoon all-purpose flour

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.  Add the bell pepper, shallot, and garlic with a pinch of salt.  Cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add in the ground meat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.  Add the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and the pepper.  Stir well, continuing to break apart the meat into small crumbles.  Cook until the beef has browned.

In a jar, combine 1/2 cup water and the flour and shake for 30 seconds.  Pour the mixture into the meat, stirring well and cooking for another 5 to 6 minutes, until saucy.

You can fill the shells and top with grated cheese or use the following sauce:

Taco Sauce

1 cup tomato sauce

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

pinch of crushed pepper flakes

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon honey

In a saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, 1/2 cup water, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, vinegar, and honey.  Bring to a simmer and let simmer for 5 minutes.  Allow mixture to cool completely.

Transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.  Will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.