TASTE OF OLNEY

This week, Danny prepared Mediterranean tacos with paprika-and-cumin-spiced beef, feta, and a honey- cilantro-tomato salsa that provides a delicious departure from the flavor profile to the familiar Tex-Mex version.

These tacos draw their inspiration from the Mediterranean region, which includes countries like Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon. Mediterranean tacos often feature flavors like garlic, lemon, olive oil, and a variety of fresh herbs such as mint, parsley, and oregano.

They are characterized by a light and refreshing taste with a focus on grilled or roasted vegetables, lean proteins like chicken or lamb, and yogurt-based sauces.

Ingredients commonly found in Mediterranean tacos include grilled eggplant, zucchini, onions, tomatoes, and various marinated meats, particularly lamb or chicken. Toppings may include tahini, tzatziki, and fresh vegetables.

At the heart of these delectable tacos is the succulent, seasoned beef. Lean ground beef is marinated with a medley of Mediterranean spices, including oregano, cumin, garlic, and a hint of paprika. The result is a well-seasoned, savory filling that will transport your senses straight to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean. The beef is sautéed until it’s perfectly browned and aromatic, creating a mouthwatering aroma that will have you eager to dig in.

But what truly elevates these Mediterranean beef tacos is the crumbled feta cheese. The feta adds a hint of saltiness that cuts through the richness of the beef, leaving you with a perfectly balanced bite.

As always, all ingredients are available at Stewart’s Food Store.

Step 1: Shape beef into 4-6 patties, season w/ salt and pepper. Add olive oil to a large pan and cook patties over medium heat.

Step 2: Sear until well browned about 6 minutes. Break patties into ragged pieces about the size of walnuts. Then sear the edges until they are crispy, 3 more minutes.

Step 3: Stir in onion and garlic. Season w/ salt, pepper, cumin and paprika. Cook stirring often until fragrant, about 7 minutes. Add wine and tomato sauce. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Meanwhile, mix yogurt/kefir with feta in small bowl.

Step 5: In another bowl mix tomatoes, lemon, honey and cilantro. Season with salt to taste.

Step 6: Heat corn tortillas on comal or open flame until soft and warm. Add meat to tortillas, top with salsa and feta. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef ¼ cup olive oil 1 medium yellow onion diced 2 tablespoons minced garlic 1 heaping teaspoon of cumin 1 tablespoon paprika 6 tablespoons of dry red wine 6 tablespoons tomato sauce ½ cup plain yogurt or Kefir ¼ cup crumbled feta 1 cup of grape tomatoes halved Juice of 1 lemon 2 tablespoons of cilantro Corn tortillas warmed

Preparation: