How to Make Ground Turkey Tacos

Ground turkey is used as a healthy alternative to ground beef in many recipes due to its low fat content. The average fat content of 1½ lbs. of ground beef is about 126 grams of fat, while the same amount of ground turkey contains about 42 grams of fat. This recipe will prepare six to eight ground turkey tacos, and will serve three to four people.

Things You'll Need

• 1 large tomato ¼ head of lettuce 1 (12 oz.) block cheddar cheese 1½ lbs. ground turkey Large skillet Spatula 1 packet taco seasoning 6-8 taco shells

Instructions

1. Rinse and dice the tomato into small pieces, and finely chop the lettuce. Shred 2 cups of cheddar cheese, and set aside for later use.

2. Place the ground turkey into a large skillet, and use a spatula to break it into small pieces. Cook the turkey over medium-high heat for 8 to 10 minutes, or until browned all the way through. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the taco seasoning and ¾ cup water to the skillet and mix well. Simmer the ground turkey mixture for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until all of the water has evaporated.

4. Fill the taco shells with the ground turkey. Top the meat with shredded cheese followed by the tomato and lettuce. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Warnings

• Sour cream, guacamole or salsa can be added to the ground turkey tacos to add more flavor and substance. Using low-carb tortillas will result in ground turkey tacos which are suitable for low-carb dieters. Excess ground turkey can be refrigerated in an air-tight container and saved for use in other recipes that call for ground turkey or beef.

References

• Book: The Food-Mood Solution; Jack Challem, Melvyn R. Werbach; 2008
• The University of Purdue - 4-H Club - Facts on Fat Intake