Taco bowls are a deconstructed version of tacos that are served in a bowl instead of a tortilla. They typically include a variety of ingredients, such as protein, cheese, lettuce, beans, corn, and salsa, and can be customized to suit personal preferences. Taco bowls are a popular meal option because they are easy to make, versatile, and can be prepared ahead of time for meal prep. They can be made with a variety of proteins, such as ground beef, chicken, or turkey, and can be seasoned with taco seasoning or other spices. Taco bowls can also be made with rice, quinoa, or other grains, and can be topped with various garnishes, such as avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Key Takeaways
- Who this meal appeals to: Fans of Mexican cuisine, health enthusiasts looking for a lower-carb alternative to traditional tacos, and anyone desiring a customizable meal.
- Estimated duration: Prep time is about 15 minutes. Cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
- Nutrition facts: High in protein, rich in fiber, and can be adjusted to be low in fat.
Table of Contents
About this Recipe
Taco bowls offer a modern approach to enjoying the essential flavors of a taco. At the core, it’s about layering ingredients harmoniously in a bowl, starting with a base, usually rice or lettuce, and topping it with a choice of protein, veggies, and dressings.
Equipment Required
- Frying pan or skillet
- Cooking pot (if preparing rice)
- Chopping board and knife
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- Base: 2 cups cooked rice or shredded lettuce
- Protein: 1 lb ground beef, chicken, or tofu
- Seasoning: 1 packet of taco seasoning or a blend of cumin, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Veggies: 1 bell pepper (sliced), 1 red onion (sliced), 1 cup corn kernels, 1 cup black beans
- Toppings: 1 cup shredded cheese, 1 cup pico de gallo or salsa, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 avocado (sliced), 1 jalapeño (sliced, optional), cilantro (chopped)
- Dressing: Lime wedges and hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Protein Preparation: In a skillet, cook your chosen protein. For ground beef or chicken, cook until fully browned. For tofu, cook until golden. Add the taco seasoning and a little water, mixing well until fully coated. Remove from heat.
- Veggies: In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and red onions until they’re soft and have a slight char. Add corn and black beans, cooking until warmed.
- Assembly: Begin with a base of rice or lettuce in a bowl. Layer your protein on top, followed by the veggies. Finish off with your desired toppings and a squeeze of lime.
- Serving: Serve immediately with additional lime wedges and hot sauce on the side for those wanting an extra kick.
Side Dishes
- Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up any leftover toppings or dips.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: A flavorful mix of grilled corn, mayo, chili powder, and lime.
- Guacamole: Always a hit, especially when paired with spicy dishes.
Storage Options
Taco bowl ingredients can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to assemble the bowl fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Ingredient Substitutes
- For rice: Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or couscous.
- For beef: Ground turkey, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative.
Alternatives to this Meal
- Burrito Bowl: Similar to a taco bowl but includes more fillings like guacamole, refried beans, and often uses grilled chicken or steak.
- Taco Salad: Use a larger quantity of lettuce as the base, and opt for a tangy dressing like ranch or a cilantro-lime vinaigrette.
A number of taco recipes can be found on this page.
Conclusion
Taco bowls are a testament to the versatility and vibrancy of Mexican-inspired cuisine. They allow for creativity, letting you mix and match ingredients to your heart’s content. Healthy, delicious, and easy to make, taco bowls are sure to be a staple in any meal rotation. We do hope you enjoyed this taco bowls recipe!
