Is 93 7 ground beef good for tacos? The Ultimate Guide

Extra lean 93/7 ground beef contains only 7% fat by weight, making it a healthier option for many dishes, including tacos. But does its low-fat content compromise flavor and moisture? With the right techniques, 93/7 ground beef is an excellent choice for making delicious, less-greasy tacos.

Quick Summary

This article explores the pros and cons of using 93/7 ground beef for tacos, contrasting it with fattier options like 80/20. It provides cooking techniques to ensure a flavorful, moist result, including a step-by-step recipe. Essential tips for boosting flavor and preventing dryness are also included.

Key Points

• Is it good? Yes, 93/7 ground beef is excellent for tacos if cooked correctly, offering a healthier, less greasy alternative to fattier options.

• Prevent dryness: Add moisture with ingredients like tomato sauce, broth, or finely diced onions and simmer the meat to keep it from becoming dry and crumbly.

• Enhance flavor: Since fat carries flavor, compensate for the lower fat content by using robust seasonings and aromatics like garlic, chili powder, and cumin.

• Draining is minimal: The low fat content of 93/7 ground beef means little to no draining is required, which saves time and effort during cooking.

• Healthier choice: With less saturated fat and fewer calories, 93/7 ground beef is a heart-healthy choice for those managing their diet.

Understanding the Lean-to-Fat Ratio

When you buy ground beef, the ratio on the label refers to the percentage of lean meat to fat by weight. The 93/7 ratio indicates that the package contains 93% lean meat and 7% fat. This extra-lean grind offers a significant reduction in fat and calories compared to more common ground beef options like 80/20, which is 80% lean and 20% fat. While the higher fat content of 80/20 often translates to a juicier, more robust flavor, 93/7 is valued for its nutritional benefits and lower grease content.

The Pros and Cons of 93/7 for Tacos

Making the right choice for your taco filling depends on your priorities, whether they are health-conscious or flavor-centric. Here's a breakdown of the benefits and drawbacks of using 93/7 ground beef for your tacos.

The Pros of Using 93/7 Ground Beef

• Healthier option: With a lower saturated fat content, 93/7 is a better choice for those watching their fat intake without giving up beef.
• Less grease to drain: The minimal fat in 93/7 means you'll have less grease to drain from the pan, resulting in a cleaner, lighter filling.
• Perfect for sauces: Because it doesn't create excessive grease, it's ideal for simmering in a sauce, allowing the spices and other liquid ingredients to shine.
• Higher protein per dollar: Since you drain less fat, you get more actual lean protein per dollar spent, making it a more efficient protein source.

The Cons of Using 93/7 Ground Beef

• Can be dry: Without the lubrication of fat, 93/7 ground beef can easily become dry and crumbly if overcooked.
• Lacks inherent flavor: Much of the rich beefy flavor is derived from the fat, so the leaner grind requires more aggressive seasoning and moisture to compensate.
• Higher price point: Leaner ground beef options often come with a higher price tag per pound compared to fattier varieties.

93/7 vs. 80/20 for Taco Meat: A Comparison

To help you decide, here is a quick comparison of the two most common ground beef ratios for tacos.

Feature	93/7 Ground Beef	80/20 Ground Beef
Flavor	Milder, requires more seasoning and flavor agents added.	Richer, more robust inherent beef flavor from fat content.
Moisture	Prone to dryness; benefits from added liquids like broth or sauce.	Naturally juicier and more succulent due to higher fat content.
Grease	Minimal excess grease to drain.	Produces a significant amount of grease that needs draining.
Cost	Typically more expensive per pound.	Generally more economical.
Health	Lower in fat and calories, better for heart-healthy diets.	Higher in fat and calories, offers a richer, more indulgent flavor.

How to Cook Flavorful Tacos with 93/7 Ground Beef

The key to great 93/7 taco meat is adding moisture and bold flavors back into the pan. Here’s how to do it right.

The Browning Process

Use a large, preheated skillet over medium-high heat. Add a teaspoon of olive oil to the pan before adding the beef. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the meat to steam instead of brown. Cook until the beef is just browned, not overcooked.

The Flavor and Moisture Boost

Once the beef is browned, it's time to add back the moisture and seasoning. Stir in a generous amount of taco seasoning. Instead of just water, consider these options to build flavor and moisture:

• Tomato sauce or paste
• Beef or vegetable broth
• Finely diced onions, peppers, or mushrooms
• A squeeze of fresh lime juice

The Simmering Secret

After adding your chosen liquid and seasonings, bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the meat to absorb the liquid and flavors, preventing it from drying out.

Recipe: Flavorful 93/7 Lean Beef Tacos

Ingredients:

• 1 lb 93/7 lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
• 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 pack store-bought taco seasoning or 3 tbsp homemade blend
• 1/2 cup beef broth or tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft.
2. Add the ground beef and minced garlic. Break up the beef with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess liquid, though with 93/7, there will be minimal.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and beef broth or tomato sauce. Mix until the beef is evenly coated.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to be absorbed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the meat in your favorite taco shells or tortillas with desired toppings.

Conclusion

In summary, is 93 7 ground beef good for tacos? The answer is a resounding yes, provided you use the right techniques. While it may not offer the same inherent juiciness as a fattier grind like 80/20, its lower fat content makes it a healthier choice with less grease. By adding moisture through ingredients like broth or tomato sauce and seasoning generously, you can create a taco filling that is both delicious and satisfying. The simmering process is your secret weapon for ensuring every bite is moist and packed with flavor, proving that healthy eating doesn't have to mean sacrificing taste. With a little care, 93/7 ground beef can be the perfect foundation for your next taco night. For more information on different beef cuts, consult an authoritative source like the Beef Checkoff Program's website: Beef. It's What's For Dinner..

Keypoints

• Leaner is healthier: The 93/7 ratio offers significantly less fat and calories than traditional 80/20 ground beef, making it a heart-healthy choice.
• Add moisture to prevent dryness: Because of its low fat, 93/7 ground beef benefits from added liquid like broth, tomato sauce, or moisture-rich veggies during cooking.
• Season generously: The milder flavor of leaner beef means you should use ample spices and seasonings to boost the taco filling's taste.
• Simmer to infuse flavor: After browning, simmering the beef in liquid and seasonings ensures it absorbs all the flavors and remains moist.
• Mindful of cost: Leaner ground beef can be more expensive per pound, but less is cooked away as fat, providing more usable protein.
• Less grease to drain: The low fat content means less messy draining and a cleaner, lighter end product.

Faqs

• How do you keep 93/7 ground beef from being dry? Add a liquid like tomato sauce, beef broth, or even finely diced vegetables and simmer the meat gently after browning to rehydrate and infuse flavor.
• Is 93/7 or 80/20 ground beef better for tacos? 93/7 is better for a healthier, less greasy taco. 80/20 provides more natural flavor and moisture from fat but is higher in calories and requires more draining.
• Should I add oil when cooking 93/7 ground beef? A teaspoon of olive oil can help prevent the lean meat from sticking and drying out during the initial browning process.
• Do I need to drain the grease from 93/7 ground beef? It is usually not necessary. The 7% fat content is so low that minimal liquid will render, and you'll want to keep it to help with moisture.
• What can I add to lean ground beef for flavor? Aside from standard taco seasoning, boost flavor with minced onion, garlic, tomato paste, chili powder, and cumin.
• Does 93/7 beef taste different than 80/20 beef? Yes, it is less fatty and therefore has a milder, less rich beef flavor. This is why adding seasonings and moisture is so crucial for taco meat.
• Can I use 93/7 beef for other dishes like burgers or chili? Yes, it works well for chili and sauces. However, it can produce a drier burger, so adding binders and moisture is recommended.

Citations

[ { "title": "93/7 Ground Beef Meat - CookingHub", "url": "https://www.cookinghub.com/recipe-ingredient/93-7-ground-beef-meat/" }, { "title": "Best Ground Beef Taco Meat - Tara Teaspoon", "url": "https://tarateaspoon.com/ground-beef-taco-meat/" }, { "title": "Is there a difference between 80% lean and 93% lean ground ... - Quora", "url": "https://www.quora.com/Is-there-a-difference-between-80-lean-and-93-lean-ground-beef-if-I-am-just-browning-and-draining-the-fat" }, { "title": "Easy Taco Meat {Skillet, Instant Pot, or Crock Pot} - That's Deelicious!", "url": "https://thatsdeelicious.com/easy-taco-meat/" }, { "title": "Ground Beef Tacos - JoyFoodSunshine", "url": "https://joyfoodsunshine.com/ground-beef-tacos/" } ] }

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep 93/7 ground beef from being dry in tacos?

To prevent 93/7 ground beef from drying out, add a liquid like tomato sauce or beef broth after browning the meat. Simmering the meat in this liquid allows it to absorb moisture and flavor, resulting in a more succulent filling.

What is the flavor difference between 93/7 and 80/20 beef for tacos?

93/7 beef has a milder flavor due to its lower fat content, requiring more seasoning to achieve a robust taste. 80/20 is richer and more inherently flavorful because fat contributes significantly to the taste.

Should I drain the fat when using 93/7 ground beef for tacos?

It is generally not necessary to drain the fat from 93/7 ground beef. The low fat content means very little grease is rendered, and the minimal liquid is beneficial for keeping the meat moist.

What are the benefits of using 93/7 ground beef for tacos?

Benefits include less saturated fat, fewer calories, and a lighter, less greasy result. Since less of the product is cooked away as fat, you also get more usable protein per pound.

What ingredients can be added to 93/7 ground beef to improve taco flavor?

To boost flavor, add ingredients such as minced onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and a spoonful of tomato paste or beef broth. These ingredients introduce moisture and a robust flavor profile.

Can I use 93/7 ground beef for other dishes like burgers or chili?

Yes, 93/7 beef is well-suited for chili and sauces where liquid prevents dryness. For burgers, however, you may find the leaner meat a bit dry unless you add binders or moisture-rich ingredients.

Is 93/7 ground beef more expensive than 80/20?

Yes, leaner ground beef, such as 93/7, is typically more expensive per pound. However, you pay for less fat, so the cost per pound of usable meat might be more comparable.