Toothpick Beef Taquitos

• ground beef↗2 lbs
• onion, finely chopped↗1⁄2
• bell pepper, finely chopped↗1
• garlic cloves, minced↗4
• cumin↗1 tablespoon
• chili powder↗1 tablespoon
• cayenne pepper↗1 teaspoon
• white pepper1 teaspoon
• file powder (optional)1 teaspoon

  optional

• kosher salt↗1 teaspoon
• cheddar cheese, shredded↗2 cups
• salsa (I used homemade salsa verde)1 cup
• small corn tortillas, 5-inch diameter↗30
• canola oil↗4 ounces

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Blend beef thoroughly with cumin, chili powder, peppers, and file powder and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow flavors to settle.

2. 2

   Pan cook beef until partly browned. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic and cook until meat is browned and vegetables are softened. Drain. Combine with cheese and salsa.

3. 3

   If using a deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F If using a pan, add enough oil to coat the surface of the pan and raise to medium heat.

4. 4

   Microwave a few tortillas at a time on a paper towel to make the tortillas pliable. I warmed 4 tortillas for 45 seconds.

5. 5

   Add a heaping tablespoon of beef, cheese, and salsa mixture to the center of a tortilla. Roll tortilla as tightly as possible and secure with a toothpick. NOTE: push filling in from both sides so keep it from falling out while frying.

6. 6

   Cook a few taquitos at a time. If deep frying, cook for a few minutes or until golden brown. If using a pan, flip over after a few minutes and cook until both sides are golden brown.

7. 7

   Move to drying rack with a paper towel underneath and allow to drain. When cool, remove toothpicks.