Football Munch and Crunch Time = Walking Tacos

by Sue Zelickson, Tastemaker in Residence

Picture family and friends gathered in front of the big screen watching their favorite team and rooting them on to victory. It's an important time out for togetherness and downtime in our hectic lives. 

Here are a few ideas for munching while cheering the football crunching on TV.

The first time I had a walking taco I loved the idea, the taste, the creativity and simplicity. It’s easy and quick, no mess, no clean up. Plus it is super for small or large groups. 

You can sit down and eat it as well; all you need is a fork and a napkin.

Walking Tacos

12 to 14 servings  
 
Ingredients

1 lb. lean ground beef, chicken or turkey
1 medium onion chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced  
1 15 or 16 oz can refried beans
1 28 oz can diced tomatoes
1 1/2  tsp chili powder
1 1/2 tsp cumin powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper  

Toppings: (place in bowls or sectioned  platter) - shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, chopped tomatoes, sour cream, sliced black olives, sliced jalapeños, crumbled bacon

Instructions

1. Brown ground beef, turkey or chicken with onion and garlic in a skillet
2. Add seasonings and cook until browned and fragrant. Stir in refried beans and tomatoes.  
3. Cut each bag down one side of the Fritos bag so it’s more like bowl. Fill each bag with two spoons of meat mixture or let your guests pick out their own toppings.   
4. Set out napkins and plastic forks and that's the walking (or sitting) taco.

Other quick and tasty treats for football watching include finger foods like chips, veggies and dips, chicken wings, pizza, popcorn, hero sandwiches, sliders, and of course cookies or brownies. You can also make your own sundaes. Plus don't forget the water, beer, wine and sodas. Make it easy on the host and hostess as well as the guests. Order these items from your favorite restaurant or supermarket if you’re out of time to cook it up yourself. 

Enjoy the time out and may your favorite team win…