Gather and measure the taco filling ingredients. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. If using ground beef, break into small pieces so it cooks evenly.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tsp oil. When shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent.

Add the ground beef (or plant-based crumble) to the skillet. Cook, breaking up with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink, about 4–6 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Lower the heat to medium. Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the meat and toast the spices about 30 seconds.

Add the tomato paste and 1/4 cup water, stir to combine, and simmer 2–3 minutes until mixture thickens and becomes saucy. Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed. Keep warm on very low heat while you prepare tortillas and toppings.

Taco Assembly & Toppings

Warm the tortillas: heat a dry skillet over medium-high and warm each tortilla 20–30 seconds per side until pliable with light brown spots, or wrap in a damp towel and microwave 20–30 seconds to steam.

Divide the taco filling evenly between the two tortillas (about 1/2 cup filling per taco if using the quantities given).

Top each taco with shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, diced tomatoes or pico de gallo, and chopped cilantro.

Finish each taco with a squeeze of lime, 1 tsp sour cream or crema (or more to taste), and hot sauce if desired.

Side — Cilantro Lime Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch; drain well.

In a small saucepan combine 1/2 cup rinsed rice, 1 cup water or broth, 1 tsp olive oil or butter, and 1/4 tsp salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer 15 minutes without lifting the lid, until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.

Remove from heat and let rest, covered, 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in 1 tsp lime juice, 1/2 tsp lime zest (if using), and 1 tbsp chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust salt or lime as desired.