Looking for a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional tacos? This paleo tacos recipe offers a customizable and satisfying meal that caters to various dietary needs. Whether you're following a paleo, gluten-free, or Whole30 diet, these tacos can be adapted to suit your preferences.
Introduction
Tacos are a beloved dish, and this paleo version doesn't compromise on taste or satisfaction. By using flourless taco shells and focusing on fresh, whole-food ingredients, you can enjoy a guilt-free taco night any day of the week. This recipe provides a basic framework that you can personalize with your favorite toppings and fillings.
Paleo Taco Shells
To fully embrace the paleo approach, it's essential to use flourless taco shells. While you can find store-bought options like Mikey's Paleo Tortillas or Siete Foods paleo tortillas, making your own is a rewarding experience.
Homemade Paleo Tortillas
Ingredients:
- Tapioca flour
- Coconut flour
- Salt
- Onion powder
- Almond milk
- Eggs
Instructions:
- Sift the tapioca flour, coconut flour, salt, and onion powder into a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk and eggs.
- Heat a small nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the skillet and tilt the pan to evenly distribute the batter into a thin circle (about 7 inches in diameter).
- Carefully flip the tortilla with a spatula and raise the heat to medium-high.
- Cook until golden brown and set.
- Transfer the tortilla to a plate and let the skillet cool for a few seconds before making the next tortilla.
- To reheat, place paleo tortillas in a skillet or griddle over high heat until fully warmed through.
- To freeze, place cooled tortillas in a large freezer-friendly zip-top plastic bag and transfer to freezer.
Taco Meat Preparation
The heart of any taco is the filling, and this recipe offers a flavorful and versatile ground beef option.
Ground Beef Taco Meat
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Avocado oil
Instructions:
- Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Stirring frequently, brown the ground beef and onion in the skillet for 8 to 10 minutes or until the beef is cooked.
- In a bowl, combine all the ingredients for the taco seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir the taco seasoning in with the meat.
Alternative Taco Meat Options
- Ground Turkey, Bison, or Chicken: These can be used instead of ground beef for a leaner protein option.
- Instant Pot Carnitas: A flavorful and tender pork filling that's perfect for tacos.
- Instant Pot Salsa Chicken: A family-friendly option with a zesty salsa flavor.
- Mexican Braised Beef: This tender shredded Mexican beef is so simple and tasty.
Cauliflower Rice
For a low-carb and paleo-friendly alternative to traditional rice, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice.
Read also: Paleo Granola Recipes
Cauliflower Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
- Cauliflower
- Avocado oil
- Tomato paste
- Cumin
- Garlic powder
- Coriander
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt
Instructions:
- Heat avocado oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add tomato paste and cook until darker in color, stirring constantly.
- Add cumin, garlic powder, coriander, onion powder, and paprika. Cook the spices until fragrant, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the cauliflower rice and salt.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
Toppings and Variations
The possibilities for taco toppings are virtually endless, allowing you to customize your paleo tacos to your liking.
Traditional Toppings
- Chopped tomatoes
- Homemade guacamole
- Sliced black olives
- Salsa
- Chopped bell peppers
- Chopped cucumber
- Plain coconut milk yogurt or kefir
Creative Toppings
- Melon salsa
- Mango
- Avocado
- Pineapple
- Mashed avocado
Whole30 Compliant Toppings
The standard taco toppings (except for cheese and sour cream) are normally good to go on a Whole30. You can make your own salsa or guacamole, but you can find a lot of compliant pre-made ones at the store if you’re in a rush.
Paleo Taco Bowls
For a deconstructed taco experience, consider making paleo taco bowls. This option is perfect for those who prefer to eat with a fork or want a heartier meal.
Paleo Taco Bowl Assembly
Start with a base of cauliflower rice.
Add the cooked ground beef or your choice of protein.
Read also: Paleo Diet Delivered: What You Need to Know
Top with your favorite toppings, such as:
- Diced avocado
- Salsa
- Chopped vegetables
- Pickled jalapenos
- Canned sliced olives
Omit the crushed tortilla chips if on a Whole30.
Additional Tips and Tricks
- Spice it up: Add ground cayenne to the beef and/or cauliflower rice for extra heat.
- Make ahead: The cooked beef and cauliflower rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
- Freeze for later: The cooked beef and cauliflower rice can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
- Use cast iron skillets: Cast iron skillets give food a great flavor and may help with anemia.
- Pat out the grease: Pat as much grease out of the cooked ground beef as possible to prevent it from congealing.
- Lime juice: A squirt of lime juice can really bring all the flavors together.
Read also: Paleo Mayonnaise Recipe