Make every day National Taco Day with these delicious recipes

Unleash the Taco Temptation Every Day with These Awesome Recipes

October 4th is National Taco Day, but why wait for a specific date to explore the vibrant world of tacos? According to Leslie Teller, New York author of "Eating Mexico," Tacos are not just a material thing; it's an experience, a way to savor food.

So why not celebrate this month as a Taco canvas and indulge in traditional and creative recipes? If you're near San Bernardino, California, don't miss Mitla Cafe's burrito, which inspired Taco Bell's founder.

Once you take a bite into their crisp fried tortilla shells (like I did after an exhausting Route 66 journey), you'll question why you ever went back to fast-food tacos.

Here are some hearty Meat Tacos that are sure to please:

Juicy Pork Tacos with Sautéed Red Onions, Cilantro, Shredded Lettuce, and a Fresh Lime Wedge

If you're a fan of traditional soft tacos filled with tender, flavorful pork, give this classic recipe a try.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 8 small tortillas

Instructions:

1. Combine pork, water, onions, garlic, salt, cumin, chili powder, oregano, paprika, coriander, and thyme in a slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
3. Shred pork with two forks and stir in lime juice.
4. Fill tortillas with desired toppings and serve.

Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos with Sautéed Bell Peppers and Onions

Why settle for plain tacos when you can have something more exciting? Try this cheesy twist on a classic favorite using ground beef, bell peppers, and your favorite taco seasoning.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup water
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 small tortillas

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef over medium heat and drain excess fat.
2. Stir in taco seasoning and water, then add bell peppers and onions. Cook until soft.
3. Add black beans and simmer until heated.
4. Fill tortillas with the meat and cheese mixture.
5. Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave and serve.

Now, let's explore some Vegan Alternatives:

Sautéed Mushroom Tacos with Avocado Cream and Fresh Salsa

For vegetable lovers, these savory mushroom tacos are packed with protein and umami flavor. Made with cremini mushrooms, this Vegan Carnitas-like dish will satisfy your meat cravings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small tortillas

Avocado Cream:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/2 cup cashew cream
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh Salsa:

• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté mushrooms until browned.
2. Stir in paprika, coriander, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. In a blender, combine avocado, cashew cream, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, mix diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro for fresh salsa.
5. Assemble tacos by placing mushroom mixture inside tortillas, then top with avocado cream and fresh salsa.

As the popular food trend continues to flourish, explore new ways to create and customize your tacos. From traditional recipes to your unique creations, there's no limit to how delicious your taco adventures can be. Happy Taco-ing!