Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 packet (1 ounce/28g) taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup (120ml) water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable shortening or lard, chilled
  • ¾ cup (180ml) warm water
  • 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
  • 1 cup (150g) shredded lettuce
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • ½ cup (120g) sour cream
  • ½ cup (120g) salsa
  • 1 avocado, diced or sliced
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and bell pepper; cook for another 2 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, draining off any excess grease.
  3. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes, or until smooth.
  6. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 15 minutes.
  7. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a thin circle (about 6-7 inches in diameter).
  8. Heat a dry cast iron skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for 30-60 seconds per side, or until lightly browned and slightly puffed.
  9. Transfer the cooked tortillas to a tortilla warmer or wrap in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm.
  10. Fill each tortilla with taco meat, cheese, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, salsa, avocado, and any other desired toppings. Serve immediately with lime wedges.