Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup diced pickled jalapeños
- 8 small flour tortillas
- Cooking oil for frying
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula or spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a separate skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Take one flour tortilla and place a spoonful of the cooked ground beef or turkey mixture on one half of the tortilla.
- Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and pickled jalapeños on top of the meat.
- Fold the other half of the tortilla over to form a pocket and press down gently with a spatula to seal the edges.
- Carefully place the loaded pocket taco in the hot skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Serve the loaded pocket tacos warm with your favorite soulful accompaniments such as collard greens, mac and cheese, or sweet potato fries.
These Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos with a soul food twist are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a tasty snack for yourself. Enjoy!
