Botswana-Style Tacos

Ingredients

In Botswana-Style Tacos, we adapt the traditional Mexican Mission-Style Tacos to incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients of Botswana. The original recipe is enhanced with Botswana spices like coriander, cumin, and paprika, which infuse the meat with a distinct smoky flavor. Additionally, the salsa is made using local ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, adding a refreshing and tangy element to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Mission-Style Tacos, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef or chicken, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) beef or chicken, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 tortillas 8 tortillas
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional) Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the sliced meat, vegetable oil, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the meat is evenly coated with the spices. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated meat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, fresh cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to make the salsa.
4. 4.
   Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
5. 5.
   To assemble the tacos, place a generous amount of the cooked meat on each tortilla. Top with the salsa and drizzle with hot sauce if desired.
6. 6.
   Serve the Botswana-Style Tacos warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef or chicken — Ensure the meat is thinly sliced to ensure quick and even cooking.
• Ground coriander, ground cumin, and paprika — Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference for spiciness.
• Tortillas — Warm the tortillas before assembling the tacos to enhance their flavor and make them more pliable.
• Tomatoes — Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the salsa to add a burst of freshness.
• Lime juice — Squeeze fresh lime juice for a tangy and zesty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, grill the marinated meat instead of cooking it in a skillet.
• Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of hot sauce added to the tacos.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for a creamy element.
• Experiment with different types of meat, such as lamb or venison, for a unique twist.
• Serve the tacos with a side of traditional Botswana staple, such as morogo (cooked spinach) or seswaa (pounded meat).

Serving advice

Serve the Botswana-Style Tacos on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Accompany them with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Encourage your guests to assemble their own tacos, allowing them to personalize their fillings and toppings according to their preferences.

Presentation advice

Arrange the warm tortillas neatly on a serving platter, with the cooked meat and salsa placed in separate bowls alongside. This allows guests to create their own tacos, adding a touch of interactivity to the dining experience. Sprinkle some additional chopped cilantro over the tacos for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.