Ingredients

• For the Picadillo

  • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 large white onion, finely chopped (1 1/2 cups)
  • 1 pound ground chuck (80 percent lean)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (1 to 2 cloves)
  • 2 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped (2 3/4 cups)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder or pasilla chili powder (earthy.com)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 2 teaspoons white vinegar

• For the Tacos

  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 20 corn tortillas
  • Shredded iceberg lettuce, for serving
  • Chopped white onion, for serving
  • Shredded mild cheddar cheese, preferably longhorn, for serving
  • Salsa Picante, for serving