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Bison Taco Recipe

Easy Bison Tacos

This easy bison taco recipe features seasoned ground bison cooked with onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika, then served in warm tortillas with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, cheese, salsa, and lime. It's a flavorful and customizable dinner that's perfect for taco night.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican-inspired
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground bison
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil if needed
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 medium tomato diced
  • ½ avocado sliced or diced
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • ½ cup shredded cheese
  • Salsa for serving
  • Lime wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Small bowls for toppings
  • Serving plate

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the onion and tomato, mince the garlic, chop the cilantro, and prepare the avocado. Arrange the toppings in separate bowls so they are ready when the tacos are assembled.
    Bison Taco Recipe
  2. Cook the Bison: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooking oil if needed, followed by the diced onion. Cook for a few minutes until the onion begins to soften. Add the ground bison and break it apart with a spatula. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Finish the Taco Filling: Cook the bison until it is thoroughly cooked, stirring occasionally to distribute the seasonings evenly. Avoid unnecessary overcooking because lean bison can become dry.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side, or follow the heating instructions on the package. Keep them warm until ready to assemble.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Spoon the seasoned bison into the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, avocado, cilantro, and shredded cheese.
  6. Add Salsa and Lime: Finish each taco with your favorite salsa and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately while the filling and tortillas are warm.

Video

Notes

  • Ground bison can usually be substituted for ground beef in taco recipes, but it is leaner, so avoid overcooking it.
  • Adjust the chili powder and salsa according to your preferred level of heat.
  • Corn tortillas provide a classic taco flavor, while flour tortillas offer a softer texture.
  • For extra creaminess, serve the tacos with guacamole or a small amount of sour cream.
  • You can prepare the toppings ahead of time to make taco assembly faster.
  • Always cook ground meat thoroughly and follow safe food-handling practices.
Nutrition Information (per serving, estimated): Calories: 400 kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 650mg | Potassium: 550mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 750IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 120mg | Iron: 4mg