New Mexican Tapas

Ingredients

While Spanish tapas are known for their diverse range of flavors and ingredients, New Mexican tapas incorporate the vibrant and fiery flavors of the Southwest. The use of chili peppers, corn, beans, and local spices adds a distinct New Mexican twist to the traditional Spanish concept. The heat and richness of New Mexican cuisine bring a whole new level of excitement to these tapas. We alse have the original recipe for Tapas, so you can check it out.

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) chili powder 1 teaspoon (5g) chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) canned black beans, rinsed and drained 1 cup (240ml) canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup (240ml) frozen corn kernels, thawed 1 cup (240ml) frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh cilantro
• 12 small corn tortillas 12 small corn tortillas
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 3g
• Protein: 26g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and jalapeno pepper. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the peppers are softened.
2. 2.
   Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. 3.
   Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
4. 4.
   Add the black beans and corn to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through.
5. 5.
   Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.
6. 6.
   Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
7. 7.
   Spoon a generous amount of the beef and bean mixture onto each tortilla. Fold in half to form a taco shape.
8. 8.
   Serve the New Mexican Tapas with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Corn tortillas — To make them more pliable, heat them in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds before filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef and bean mixture.
• Top the tacos with sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or shredded cheese for added flavor and texture.
• Serve the New Mexican Tapas with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping.
• If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder and jalapeno pepper.
• Make a double batch of the beef and bean mixture and freeze the leftovers for a quick and easy meal later on.

Serving advice

Serve the New Mexican Tapas as a main course for a casual dinner or as part of a larger spread for a festive gathering. Arrange the tacos on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an attractive presentation.

Presentation advice

To make the New Mexican Tapas visually appealing, use colorful toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Serve them on a vibrant serving platter to enhance the festive atmosphere.