Is 93% ground beef good for tacos? A Comprehensive Guide

According to meat scientists, 93% lean ground beef works well in recipes that require crumbles, such as tacos. So, is 93% ground beef good for tacos? The answer is a resounding yes, provided you use proper techniques to maximize flavor and moisture, creating a delicious and healthy meal.

Quick Summary

Yes, 93% ground beef is excellent for tacos when cooked correctly. While leaner, it can be flavorful and moist with the right seasonings and moisture-adding ingredients. It's a great, low-fat alternative to traditional ground beef options for a healthier taco night.

Key Points

• Is 93% Lean Good for Tacos?: Yes, it is a great option for a healthier, lower-fat taco filling, especially when moisture and flavor are added correctly.

• Prevent Dryness: Use techniques like adding liquids (broth, salsa, water) and sautéing aromatics to ensure the lean beef stays moist and flavorful.

• Build Flavor: Rely on homemade or robust taco seasoning blends and ingredients like sautéed onions and garlic to build deep flavor.

• 93/7 vs. 80/20: Choose 93/7 for a cleaner, healthier meal with less grease to drain, while 80/20 offers a richer, juicier, and more traditional flavor profile.

• No Draining Needed: One of the main benefits of cooking with 93% lean beef for tacos is that you can skip the draining step, making for an easier cleanup.

• Add-Ins: Boost nutrition and moisture by adding finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or bell peppers into your taco meat.

Pros and Cons of Using 93% Lean Ground Beef for Tacos

Using a leaner cut of meat like 93/7 ground beef comes with a distinct set of advantages and disadvantages. From a health perspective, the pros are clear. With significantly less fat, you're reducing your overall fat and calorie intake. This is ideal for those managing weight, cholesterol, or simply prioritizing a healthier diet. The reduced fat content also means you don't have to worry about draining a significant amount of grease during or after cooking, which makes for a cleaner and quicker cooking process.

However, the reduced fat content can lead to some drawbacks. Fat is a primary carrier of flavor and moisture in meat. When you cook with a leaner cut, you risk ending up with dry, less-flavorful results if not prepared correctly. The absence of rendered fat means there's less of a natural "sauce" to bind the meat and seasonings. This is why many traditional taco recipes call for fattier cuts like 80/20.

How to Prevent Dryness and Maximize Flavor in Lean Taco Meat

The key to great tacos with 93% ground beef is to be proactive about moisture and flavor. You can't rely on the fat to do all the work, so you need to build flavor from other ingredients. One of the most effective strategies is to use moisture-rich ingredients to compensate for the lower fat content.

• Add liquid: Introduce water, beef broth, or a favorite salsa to the meat after browning to simmer and absorb. This rehydrates the beef and allows the flavors to meld into a rich, saucy mixture. Canned tomatoes or Rotel are also excellent choices.
• Sauté aromatics: Before adding the beef, sauté finely diced onions, garlic, and poblano peppers in a small amount of oil. This builds a flavorful foundation for the dish that will infuse the meat.
• Incorporate vegetables: For added nutrients and moisture, mix in finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, or bell peppers. Chopped mushrooms are especially effective at adding bulk and moisture without significantly altering the texture or flavor.
• Toast your spices: Adding taco seasoning during the final minutes of browning (before liquids) can help toast the spices, releasing more aromatic oils and deepening the flavor.

Homemade Taco Seasoning for Lean Beef

Using a homemade seasoning blend is one of the best ways to control the flavor profile and avoid fillers found in store-bought packets. A standard, flavorful blend includes:

• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

93/7 vs. 80/20: A Ground Beef Comparison for Tacos

When deciding which type of ground beef to buy for your tacos, it helps to understand the key differences. This table breaks down the main characteristics of a lean 93/7 blend versus the more traditional 80/20 blend.

Feature	93/7 Ground Beef	80/20 Ground Beef
Fat Content	Very low (7%)	Moderate (20%)
Ideal For	Crumbles in tacos, sauces, and casseroles where you don't want excess grease	Burgers, meatballs, and meatloaf, where moisture and flavor from fat are desired
Moisture Level	Can become dry if not cooked properly; requires added liquid for best results	Naturally juicy and flavorful; high fat content keeps it moist
Flavor Profile	Milder, needs stronger seasoning and flavor additions	Richer, beefier flavor due to higher fat content
Cooking Prep	No draining necessary; add liquid after browning	Requires draining excess grease after browning

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Taco Night

Ultimately, the choice between 93% ground beef and a fattier blend for tacos depends on your personal preferences and health goals. If you are looking for a healthier, lower-fat meal and are willing to add moisture and seasoning, 93% lean ground beef is an excellent option that produces a delicious, clean taco filling. The crumbles hold seasoning well and integrate perfectly with sauces, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you prioritize a classic, beefier, and juicier flavor and don't mind a greasier cooking process, 80/20 is the traditional choice. By understanding how to properly cook and season your lean ground beef, you can confidently enjoy a healthier taco night without sacrificing taste.

For more tips on understanding different ground beef percentages, you can read more at Simply Recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground beef is best for tacos?

While a leaner option like 93/7 is great for a healthier meal, many traditional recipes recommend 80/20 or 90/10 ground beef for a richer, juicier flavor profile. Ultimately, the best type depends on your personal preference for flavor and fat content.

How do you add flavor and moisture to lean taco meat?

To add flavor and moisture to lean taco meat, brown the beef with aromatics like onions and garlic, then add liquids such as tomato sauce, salsa, or beef broth along with your seasonings. Simmering the meat in this sauce helps it absorb flavor and prevents dryness.

Do you need to drain 93% lean ground beef?

No, it is typically not necessary to drain 93% lean ground beef after cooking. Its low fat content means very little excess grease is produced, saving you a step and making for a cleaner cooking process.

Can I use 93% ground beef for burgers?

Yes, you can use 93% ground beef for burgers, but be aware that the lower fat content will result in a drier patty compared to fattier blends like 80/20, which is often preferred for burgers to maintain juiciness. Cooking lean burgers to medium-rare can help.

How much taco meat per person?

A good rule of thumb is to serve about 4 ounces (1/4 pound) of cooked taco meat per person. However, this can vary based on appetites, with some individuals eating more or less.

What is a good taco seasoning for lean ground beef?

An effective homemade taco seasoning includes a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and dried oregano. Using homemade seasoning allows you to control the spice level and avoid additives.

Is lean or fat ground beef better for tacos?

Neither is inherently 'better,' it depends on your priorities. Lean ground beef is healthier and results in a lighter taco, while fattier ground beef provides a richer, more traditional, and juicier flavor from the fat.