Spicy Texan Taco Dinner

My grandfather lived in Waco, Texas most of his young life until he met my grandmother. They say you can take the boy out of Texas, but you can't take the Texas out of the boy.... That man could eat whole, fresh jalapeno peppers without blinking.

Nothing was too spicy for Grandpa!

I love spicy food too (but just a bit cooler than Grandpa's taste). Since we're on a Mexican streak this week, its time to pull out the chili pepper. Let's whip up a Spicy Texan Taco Dinner!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef (you can do ground chicken or pork if you desire)
1 T. chili powder
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. ground black pepper
1 T. fresh chopped cilantro
2 cups chopped lettuce
1 large tomato, chopped
1/4 c. chopped green onions
1 c. chicken broth
1/2 c. grated cheddar cheese
2 c. instant rice (I prefer brown rice)
1/2 fresh lime (optional)
Tabasco sauce (optional)

Directions:

Brown meat in a large skillet, drain
Stir in chili powder, salt, pepper, broth and 1 c. water
Bring mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally
Stir in rice and cheese
Cover and allow to simmer 5-8 minutes until rice is cooked

Top with lettuce, tomato, green onions. Add sliced black olives, squeeze lime juice, additional cheese and Tabasco, if desired. My husband always adds sour cream on top too.

This is a terrific, versatile dinner. Spoon into Taco shells or tortillas. Or, just add some corn chips on the side.

A fresh tasty dinner is only 1/2 hour away!