The Great Taco Tug-of-War: Water Warfare with Old El Paso Seasoning
Ah, taco night. A glorious occasion where crunchy shells meet seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese pulls a cheesy escape act down your chin. But before you can unleash your inner nacho cheese fountain enthusiast, there's a crucial question that's plagued taco tamers since the dawn of dinnertime dilemmas: how much water do you add to that Old El Paso seasoning mix?
Fear not, fellow taco titans! This guide will be your culinary compass, navigating you through the treacherous waters (pun intended) of taco hydration.
To Broth or Not to Broth: The Spice is a Journey, Not a Destination
First things first, Old El Paso actually provides a handy recommendation on the packet itself. They suggest a cool 2/3 cup of water for a pound of ground beef. This is a solid starting point, offering a good balance between flavorful and, well, not a giant meat-flavored soup situation.
However, like any worthy warrior, you must be prepared to adapt. Here's where the fun begins:
- Firefighter Freddy: Do you crave a taco that explodes with flavor like a fiesta in your mouth? Go light on the water, partner. A half cup or even less will create a more concentrated, intensely seasoned taco filling. Just be sure to keep an eye on that meat so it doesn't turn into jerky!
- Captain Caution: Are you a spice lightweight who breaks out in a sweat at the mention of jalapeños? Embrace the water! Don't be afraid to add a full cup or even a smidge more. This will create a milder, saucier taco filling, perfect for those with delicate palates.
Remember, the water is there to enhance the flavor, not drown it. Adjust the amount based on your own spice tolerance and desired consistency.
Beyond the Beef: Water Warriors, Assemble!
While this guide focuses on the classic ground beef taco, the wisdom of water extends to other taco fillings! Chicken, fish, and veggie tacos can all benefit from a splash of hydration. Here's a quick tip:
- Lean proteins: Since these tend to dry out faster, consider using the full 2/3 cup recommendation or even slightly more.
The key is to experiment! Find your own taco nirvana, a place where the water and seasoning live in perfect harmony.
Taco FAQs: Your Questions Answered
1. How to make my tacos extra soupy?
Embrace your inner soup dragon! Add an additional 1/2 cup of water or more for a super saucy taco experience.
2. How to make my taco filling thicker?
Fear not, comrade! Use less water than recommended, or simmer the taco filling for a longer time to allow the liquid to evaporate.
3. How to know if I added too much water?
If your taco filling resembles a shallow lake, you might have gone a bit overboard. Don't despair! You can try adding a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) to thicken it up.
4. How to add even more flavor to my tacos?
Ditch the water altogether and try using low-sodium beef broth instead! This adds a deeper layer of savory goodness.
5. How to avoid a taco disaster altogether?
The best way to avoid disaster is to, well, not panic! Start with the recommended amount of water and adjust to taste. Remember, you can always add more water, but you can't take it away!