Fried Bison Tacos

These fried bison tacos are a quick and simple meal that highlight the rich flavor of bison with fresh toppings, lightly crisped tortillas, and sliced avocado—Brooks' favorite! The addition of lightly seared corn and crisp lettuce adds even more texture and freshness.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground bison
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6-8 flour or corn tortillas
• Butter or oil (for frying tortillas)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh onions, diced
• 1/2 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup cheese of choice (cheddar, queso fresco, or cotija work well)
• 1-2 fresh jalapeños, sliced
• 1-2 ripe avocados, sliced or mashed
• 1/2 cup corn, lightly seared in a skillet
• 1 cup lettuce, chopped
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bison:

   • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground bison.
   • Brown the meat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
   • Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
   • Once fully cooked, remove from heat and set aside.

2. Sear the Corn:

   • In a dry or lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat, add the corn.
   • Let it sear for a few minutes until slightly charred, stirring occasionally.
   • Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Fry the Tortillas:

   • In a separate skillet, heat a small amount of butter or oil over medium heat.
   • Place one tortilla at a time in the skillet, frying until lightly golden and slightly crisp.
   • Remove from the skillet, lightly salt, and quickly fold in half to shape into a taco shell.
   • Repeat with remaining tortillas.

4. Assemble the Tacos:

   • Place a generous portion of cooked bison in each taco shell.
   • Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, tomatoes, cheese, jalapeños, sliced avocados, seared corn, and chopped lettuce.
   • Add hot sauce and sour cream if desired.

Taco Bowl Variation:

• Instead of using tortillas, serve the cooked bison over a bowl of rice.
• Top with the same fresh ingredients, including sliced avocado, seared corn, and lettuce, for a flavorful taco bowl.

These fried bison tacos are a family favorite—simple, fresh, crispy, and full of flavor!