Beef Cheek Tacos: A Flavor-Packed Journey to Taco Heaven
If you're looking to elevate your taco game, Big Poppa’s Beef Cheek Tacos are the perfect choice. These tacos are not just a meal—they’re an experience, combining rich, smoky flavors with fresh, zesty toppings that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re preparing these for a family dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. Let’s dive into the mouthwatering process of creating these unforgettable tacos.
Why Beef Cheek Tacos?
Beef cheeks are a hidden gem in the world of tacos. Known for their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture, they are perfect for slow cooking, allowing the flavors to develop over time. When paired with Big Poppa’s Jallelujah Jalapeño Seasoning and Cash Cow Seasoning, these tacos take on a whole new level of deliciousness. These seasonings bring the perfect balance of heat and savory notes that complement the natural flavors of the beef cheeks.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Beef cheeks - The star of the show, offering tender, juicy meat.
- Big Poppa’s Jallelujah Jalapeño Seasoning - Adds a spicy kick with jalapeño flavor.
- Big Poppa’s Cash Cow Seasoning - Enhances the beef with a savory blend of spices.
- 1 can of green peppers - Brings a mild, smoky flavor.
- Minced garlic - For a robust, aromatic base.
- Tomatoes, sliced - Freshness that balances the richness of the beef.
- 1 can of beer - Adds moisture and flavor depth.
- Corn tortillas - The perfect vehicle for the beef cheeks.
- Red hot salsa - A fiery topping that adds a burst of heat.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped - Brings a fresh, herbal note.
- Onions, finely chopped - Adds a crunchy texture and sharpness.
- Mexican Crema - Creamy, tangy goodness to finish off the tacos.
- Limes, cut into wedges - A squeeze of lime brightens up all the flavors.
- Cotija Cheese, crumbled - Adds a salty, tangy finish.
- Avocados, sliced - Creamy and seasoned with Jallelujah Jalapeño Seasoning for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
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Preheat Your Grill, Smoker, or Oven:
- Set the temperature to 300°F (150°C) to get the perfect low-and-slow cook.
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Prepare the Beef Cheeks:
- Trim any silver skin and excess fat for a cleaner, more tender result.
- Place the beef cheeks in a deep pan for easy seasoning.
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Season Generously:
- Coat the beef cheeks with Big Poppa’s Jallelujah Jalapeño Seasoning and Cash Cow Seasoning, ensuring all sides are well covered.
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Cook the Beef Cheeks:
- Place the seasoned beef cheeks on your pre-heated grill, smoker, or oven.
- Cook for 1 to 1.5 hours, aiming for an internal temperature of 170°F (77°C).
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Enhance the Flavor:
- Once cooked, sprinkle cumin and more of the Jallelujah Jalapeño and Cash Cow Seasonings over the beef cheeks for an extra layer of flavor.
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Add Flavorful Ingredients:
- In a deep roasting pan, mix the green peppers, minced garlic, sliced tomatoes, and beer.
- Place the cooked beef cheeks in the mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
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Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Return the pan to your cooking method of choice, letting it roast for about 3 hours, or until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 212°F (100°C) and becomes fork-tender.
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Shred the Beef:
- Once the beef cheeks are done, shred the meat using forks, capturing all the juices and flavors.
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Assemble the Tacos:
- Heat the corn tortillas until they are warm and pliable.
- Place a generous amount of shredded beef on each tortilla.
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Add Toppings and Finishing Touches:
- Top with red hot salsa, chopped cilantro, onions, a drizzle of Mexican Crema, and a squeeze of lime.
- Sprinkle with crumbled Cotija Cheese and add seasoned avocado slices for a creamy contrast.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve with extra lime wedges and watch as these tacos disappear in minutes!
